There are 2 way(s) to get from Durban to Cape Town
Select an option below to see the route details and compare prices. Secure booking via our partner 12go.asia.
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Practical tips
Especially during school holidays and peak seasons, coaches can fill up quickly. Booking your tickets a few weeks in advance ensures you secure your spot and avoid last-minute stress or finding services fully booked.
Coach trips often arrive late at night. If you choose this option, pre-arrange a taxi or an airport transfer to your accommodation to avoid navigating an unfamiliar city in the dark. Safety first!
A coach trip is significantly longer but cheaper. For a 19-hour journey, assess if the €15 saving is worth an entire day of travel. A 2-hour flight might be a better investment if your time is precious.
Both airlines and coach companies have strict luggage policies. Always check their allowances beforehand to avoid unexpected fees or the hassle of repacking at the last minute.
For long coach journeys, bring plenty of water, snacks, a good book, and a travel pillow. Making yourself comfortable can significantly improve your experience on a 19-hour trip.
🛣️ The journey experience
Planning your journey from Durban to Cape Town? South Africa is vast, and choosing the right transport can feel overwhelming. Our goal is to help you instantly compare options, so you can decide whether a coach or a flight is best for your budget and timeline. We’ll show you clear durations and price ranges to make your planning straightforward and stress-free.
For this route, you have two primary options: flying or taking a long-distance coach. A flight typically costs around €55 and gets you there in about 2 hours, offering a quick and efficient way to cover the distance. Alternatively, a coach journey will set you back approximately €40 but takes a significant 19 hours, almost a full day of travel.
While coaches are often the most budget-friendly choice for long distances in South Africa, a domestic flight often proves to be the smarter option for very long routes like Durban to Cape Town. Weigh the cost savings against the extensive travel time to avoid spending an entire day on the road when a cheap flight could get you there in a fraction of the time, fresh and ready to explore.
Frequently asked questions — Durban → Cape Town
The cost varies depending on your chosen mode of transport. A flight typically costs around €55. If you opt for the coach, you can expect to pay approximately €40. Prices can fluctuate based on booking time and availability, so it’s always best to check current rates for your specific travel dates.
The duration differs significantly by transport. A domestic flight from Durban to Cape Town is incredibly fast, taking only about 2 hours. In contrast, a coach journey is much longer, lasting approximately 19 hours. Plan your itinerary accordingly, keeping these travel times in mind.
The 'best' way depends on your priorities. If time is of the essence, flying is undoubtedly your best option, getting you there in 2 hours for about €55. If you're on a tight budget and don't mind a very long journey, the coach is more economical at €40, despite taking 19 hours. Consider your schedule and budget carefully.
Most long-distance coaches in Durban depart from the Durban Station Bus Terminal, located near the city center. It's a central hub for intercity travel. Ensure you arrive with ample time to locate your specific bus and gate.
✨ Why visit Cape Town?
- ✓ Ascend Table Mountain for panoramic city and ocean views via cable car or hiking trails.
- ✓ Explore the vibrant V&A Waterfront with its shops, restaurants, and Two Oceans Aquarium.
- ✓ Visit Robben Island, a UNESCO World Heritage site and former prison for Nelson Mandela.
- ✓ Drive the scenic Chapman's Peak Drive, one of the world's most beautiful coastal roads.
- ✓ Discover the Cape Winelands, just an hour from the city, for world-class wine tasting.
☀️ When to visit Cape Town?
MEDITERRANEAN CLIMATE
November to February — warm, sunny weather ideal for beaches and outdoor activities.
What to do in Cape Town?
Local experiences, must-see sights and activities selected for you
⏱️ How long to visit Cape Town?
For an independent traveler, 5-7 days is ideal to explore Cape Town thoroughly. This allows for city attractions, Table Mountain, and a day trip to the Cape Peninsula. With less time, focus on the city center and waterfront; with more, include wine country.
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