South Africa

How to get from Kimberley to Cape Town

Compare all transport options: bus, train, flight. Prices, durations and practical tips.

⏱
FASTEST
1h 40min
💶
From
35€
📍
Distance
834 km
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There are 2 way(s) to get from Kimberley to Cape Town

Select an option below to see the route details and compare prices. Secure booking via our partner 12go.asia.

🚌 Departure from Kimberley
📍The main departure point for long-distance coaches in Kimberley is the Kimberley Intercity Bus Terminal. This terminal serves as a central hub for various national coach operators, providing essential facilities for passengers before their journey.
🚇To reach the Kimberley Intercity Bus Terminal from the city centre, you can opt for a local taxi or a ride-sharing service. The journey is typically short, often taking less than 15 minutes, with an approximate cost of 5-10€ depending on traffic and exact location. Public transport options may be limited.
⏰Coaches from Kimberley to Cape Town typically depart throughout the day, with several departures available from early morning to late afternoon. It is advisable to check specific operator schedules for the most up-to-date departure times, as frequency can vary.
💸 Transport from 35€ per person
⚡ Fastest: 1h 40min
⭐ Recommended: Flight — 55€
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Practical tips

💡
Booking in Advance for Peak Season

South Africa's school holidays can mean coaches fill up fast. To avoid disappointment and secure your seat, especially on popular routes, it's wise to book your bus tickets at least a few weeks ahead. For flights, booking a month or two in advance usually guarantees better prices.

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Arriving at Night in Cape Town

If your coach arrives late in Cape Town, pre-booking a trusted taxi or ride-sharing service to your accommodation is highly recommended. This ensures a safe and stress-free transfer, avoiding potential issues with finding transport upon arrival in an unfamiliar city at night.

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Flight vs. Coach: The Time-Saver

A coach trip from Kimberley to Cape Town takes about 13 hours, while a flight is only 2 hours. If your itinerary is tight, opting for the flight allows you to save a full day of travel, maximising your time exploring the destination rather than being on the road.

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Luggage Allowance Considerations

Coaches generally offer generous luggage allowances, often more than budget airlines. If you're traveling with substantial baggage, verify the airline's restrictions before booking, as excess baggage fees on flights can quickly add up and impact your overall budget.

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Flexibility and Stops on Coach Journeys

Coach journeys often include comfort stops for meals and restrooms, providing a chance to stretch your legs. While direct, these stops are factored into the total travel time. Flights offer a quicker, non-stop experience, which might be preferable for those who value speed and minimal interruptions.

🛣️ The journey experience

Planning your journey from Kimberley to Cape Town means balancing time and budget to find the best fit for your South African adventure. With vast distances characteristic of the country, it's crucial to understand your options upfront. This guide cuts through the complexity, offering a clear comparison of coach and flight so you can instantly see which mode of transport aligns best with your travel style and itinerary, ensuring a seamless booking experience. No more guesswork; just clear, actionable information at your fingertips.

From Kimberley, you have two main choices: a domestic flight or a long-distance coach. A flight will get you to Cape Town in approximately 2 hours, with tickets starting around 55€. This is the fastest way to cover the distance, saving you significant travel time. Alternatively, a coach journey takes about 13 hours and is more budget-friendly, with fares from 35€. While longer, it offers a different perspective of the landscape and is a popular choice for cost-conscious independent travellers.

Choosing between a flight and a coach depends heavily on your priorities. If time is of the essence and you want to maximise your exploration of Cape Town, flying is undoubtedly the smarter choice, despite the higher cost. However, if you're on a tighter budget and don't mind a full day of travel, the coach is a perfectly viable and economical option. Always remember to book well in advance, especially during peak seasons like school holidays, to secure your preferred travel date and avoid full coaches or last-minute price hikes.

Frequently asked questions — Kimberley → Cape Town

✨ 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.
🌙
Recommended stay
5 to 7 nights — allows time to explore major attractions and take day trips.

☀️ When to visit Cape Town?

MEDITERRANEAN CLIMATE

November to February — warm, sunny weather ideal for beaches and outdoor activities.

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Feb 😊
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Sep 😐
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In Cape Town — Plan your stay
Accommodation, activities and tips selected for you
🏨 Accommodation
Hotels in Cape Town
Compare the best rates available
via trip.com

What to do in Cape Town?

Local experiences, must-see sights and activities selected for you

INCONTOURNABLE
⛰️
Table Mountain Aerial Cableway
Ascend Table Mountain via the rotating cable car for breathtaking panoramic views of Cape Town, Robben Island, and the Atlantic seaboard. It's a must-do for iconic city vistas. Tip: Book your tickets online in advance to skip long queues, especially during peak season, and check weather conditions before heading up.
🛥️
Robben Island Museum Tour
Take a ferry to Robben Island, where Nelson Mandela was imprisoned, for a poignant tour led by former inmates. It's a profound historical experience, offering insights into South Africa's apartheid past. Tip: Tours often sell out, so book several days or even weeks ahead, and allow half a day for the full experience.
🏞️
Boulders Beach Penguin Colony
Visit the protected colony of African penguins at Boulders Beach, a unique and charming wildlife encounter. Observe these fascinating birds in their natural habitat from designated boardwalks. Tip: Go early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and see the penguins at their most active. Entrance fee is around 10€.
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V&A Waterfront Exploration
Wander through the vibrant V&A Waterfront, a bustling hub of shops, restaurants, entertainment, and harbour activities. It's perfect for a leisurely stroll, people-watching, or enjoying a meal with ocean views. Tip: Consider a sunset cruise from here for spectacular views of Table Mountain and the city lights. Parking can be tricky, so use ride-sharing.
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Bo-Kaap Colourful Houses Walk
Stroll through the historic Bo-Kaap neighbourhood, famous for its brightly coloured houses and unique Cape Malay culture. It's a photographer's delight and offers a glimpse into a vibrant community. Tip: Visit the Bo-Kaap Museum for a deeper understanding of the area's history and heritage. Many local food tours start here.
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Constantia Wine Route Tasting
Embark on a wine-tasting journey along the Constantia Wine Route, Cape Town's oldest wine region, just a short drive from the city centre. Sample world-class wines in picturesque settings. Tip: Use a hop-on hop-off bus service or a dedicated tour to enjoy the tastings responsibly. Most vineyards offer cellar tours and restaurant options.
Botanique
Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens
Explore the magnificent Kirstenbosch National Botanical Gardens, nestled against the eastern slopes of Table Mountain. It showcases South Africa's diverse flora and offers stunning walking trails. Tip: Don't miss the 'Boomslang' Canopy Walkway for unique perspectives of the garden and surrounding mountains. Pack a picnic to enjoy the scenery.
🐟
Kalk Bay Fishing Village
Discover the charming Kalk Bay, a bohemian fishing village known for its working harbour, antique shops, art galleries, and fresh seafood restaurants. It offers a relaxed, authentic Cape Town vibe away from the city bustle. Tip: Watch the seals at the harbour entrance and enjoy fish and chips directly from the trawlers. Take the scenic train route.

⏱️ How long to visit Cape Town?

4 to 10 days

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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