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HomeRoad TripsAfricaSouth AfricaRepublic of South AfricaWestern N1
South Africa's busiest road: N1, Midrand, at TomTom launch… | Flickr

Western N1 Road Trip

Cape Town - Beaufort West - Bloemfontein - Johannesburg

Expect on your itinerary

Urban life Urban life
Comfort Comfort
Road conditions Road conditions
Benefit-stress ratio Benefit-stress ratio
Landscape Landscape
Culture Culture
Historical sites Historical sites
Security Security
Western N1 Road Trip ACTIVATE MAP Stages3 km1,388 h/stage5.4

Best months to drive

I II III IV V VI
VII VIII IX X XI XII

Road Trip Costs

How much does it cost to go on a Western N1 Road Trip in Republic of South Africa?

Economy
Low budget options by car rental, accommodation and catering. In- and Out-bound travel expenses are not included.
rent & more 162EUR drive & more 188EUR sleep & more 154EUR eat & more 144EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) 486EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) incl. rented car 648EUR
Standard
Mid budget options by car rental, accommodation and catering. In- and Out-bound travel expenses are not included.
rent & more 243EUR drive & more 250EUR sleep & more 319EUR eat & more 216EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) 785EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) incl. rented car 1,028EUR
Premium
High budget options by car rental, accommodation and catering. In- and Out-bound travel expenses are not included.
rent & more 432EUR drive & more 338EUR sleep & more 550EUR eat & more 288EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) 1,176EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) incl. rented car 1,608EUR
Camper
On the road in RV, overnight at camp grounds with self-catering. In- and Out-bound travel expenses are not included.
rent & more 675EUR drive & more 375EUR sleep & more 165EUR eat & more 144EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) 684EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) incl. rented car 1,359EUR
Car rental Book hotel Flights
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Western N1 Road Trip Itinerary

The Western N1 Road Trip is a great way to explore the Republic of South Africa. Starting in the beautiful city of Cape Town, this 1388km journey takes you through some of the most stunning landscapes and towns South Africa has to offer. The recommended time to complete the trip is 3 days, although it can be done in less time if desired. The best time of year to drive the route is during the spring and summer months, when the weather is warm and dry. The route takes you through the towns of Beaufort West and Bloemfontein, with many attractions and UNESCO Heritage Monuments along the way. The roads are in excellent condition, making the trip suitable for any driver. The overall cost of the journey should be manageable, with moderate budgeting. So why not take the Western N1 Road Trip and see for yourself the beauty of the Republic of South Africa?
number of days 3 number of days
route length 1,388 km route length
budget fair budget
good for tourist good for
traffic direction on the left traffic direction
accident level moderate accident level

START Cape Town

Distance 1,388 km Driving time 16.1 h Pace: fast 416.5 kWh Airports CPT
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Cape Town, located in the Republic of South Africa, is the ideal starting point for the Western N1 Road Trip. With its stunning coastal scenery, iconic Table Mountain and world-famous beaches, it is the perfect place to begin your journey. The city offers a variety of attractions to explore, ranging from the Kirstenbosch National Botanical Gardens, to the colourful Bo-Kaap neighbourhood and Robben Island. A must-see is the V&A Waterfront, a vibrant harbour-side area with plenty of shops, restaurants and craft markets. Travelling by air, the closest international airport is Cape Town International Airport (IATA code: CPT). Car rental services are available at the airport, making it easy to start your road trip. Once you’ve experienced the beauty of Cape Town, the Western N1 Road Trip will take you to other cities and towns in the Western Cape and Northern Cape provinces. These include the quaint towns of Stellenbosch, Franschhoek, Paternoster and Springbok. From here, you can explore the Karoo and Tankwa Karoo National Parks, the Cederberg Wilderness Area, the Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park and the world famous Augrabies Falls National Park. So, start your adventure in Cape Town and make the most of your Western N1 Road Trip.

1 Cape Town - Beaufort West

Distance 460 km Driving time 5.6 h Pace: fast 137.9 kWh View map Itinerary
dining venues junction of road trips interesting  historic site attractive landscape accommodation options camping sites
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Are you ready for an unforgettable road trip from Cape Town to Beaufort West? This 460km journey will take you less than 5 hours and you'll get to explore some of South Africa's most interesting sites. You'll be able to admire the picturesque landscapes and historical sites along the way, some of which are even UNESCO Heritage sites. This is just one of the stages of your tour, so pay attention to the details and make sure you don't miss out on anything. You can find more information regarding attractions, accommodation, restaurants, and campsites in the "Itinerary" of this stage. So, what are you waiting for? Get your car and start this amazing adventure!

2 Beaufort West - Bloemfontein

Distance 537 km Driving time 6.3 h Pace: fast 161.0 kWh View map Itinerary
dining venues scenic road junction of road trips accommodation options camping sites
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Welcome to the Beaufort West - Bloemfontein Road Trip! This 537 km journey will take you less than 5 hours to complete. Along the way, you will pass through some of the most beautiful landscapes in South Africa. Start your journey in Beaufort West, the oldest town in the Central Karoo region. Here, you can visit the Karoo National Park, which is home to a variety of wildlife and plants. You can also explore the historic town center, which is full of old buildings and monuments. Continue your drive to the town of Victoria West, located in the middle of the Karoo. Here, you can visit the Victoria West Museum, which is dedicated to the history and culture of the area. Your next stop is the city of Bloemfontein, the capital of the Free State. Here, you can explore the National Museum, which showcases the history and culture of the region. You can also visit the Bloemfontein Botanical Garden, where you can enjoy the beauty of the local flora. As you drive through the countryside, be sure to take in the beauty of the rolling hills and the scenic views. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the Itinerary of this stage. Enjoy your road trip!

3 Bloemfontein - Johannesburg

Distance 392 km Driving time 4.3 h Pace: fast 117.5 kWh View map Itinerary
dining venues junction of road trips UNESCO World Heritage Site interesting  historic site accommodation options camping sites
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Are you ready for a fantastic road trip? Starting in Bloemfontein, Republic of South Africa, your journey will take you on a 392 km journey to Johannesburg in less than 4 hours. Along the way, you will be able to see some amazing sites, including the historical sites of Clarens, the picturesque landscapes of the Golden Gate Highlands National Park, and the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Vredefort Dome. Be sure to keep your eyes peeled for the incredible views of the rolling hills, the winding rivers, and the beautiful wildlife. Take some time to explore the quaint towns and villages that you will pass through, and be sure to take lots of pictures. At the end of your journey, you will find yourself in Johannesburg, one of the most vibrant cities in South Africa. From here, you can continue your journey and explore the many attractions that this amazing city has to offer. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the "Itinerary" of this stage. So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and hit the road!

  Johannesburg

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To conclude your amazing road trip through the Western N1 Road Trip, Johannesburg in the Republic of South Africa is the perfect place to end. Johannesburg is a vibrant city with a lot of history and culture to explore. It is known for its diversity and the many different attractions it has to offer. While in Johannesburg, you should definitely visit the Apartheid Museum and the Constitution Hill to learn more about South Africa’s history. The city is also home to the world-famous Kruger National Park, where visitors can experience the beauty of the African bush up close. If you’re looking to experience more of Johannesburg’s culture, then the Soweto Township is the perfect place to visit. There, you can learn about the city’s rich history and see the vibrant street art that decorates its walls. If you’re traveling to Johannesburg by car, the closest international airport is the OR Tambo International Airport (JNB). From there, you can easily drive into the city. No matter what your interests are, Johannesburg has something for everyone. And if you’re looking for a place to end your Western N1 Road Trip, then Johannesburg is the perfect destination.

Western N1 Road Trip at a glance

Before you set off

Embark on an epic journey along the Western N1 Road Trip in the majestic Republic of South Africa and marvel at the tapestry of landscapes and cultural landmarks stretching over 1,388 kilometers from the vibrant city of Cape Town. The well-maintained route takes you through quaint towns, historic sites, and breathtaking vistas, making it an ideal adventure for those keen to immerse themselves in the heart of South Africa. To soak in all the experiences without rushing, allot at least 3 days for this expansive Trip.

Key Destinations and Top Sights:

Your adventure begins in the iconic Cape Town, where Table Mountain looms over the cityscape and the confluence of diverse cultures buzzes in the air. Venture from this cosmopolitan hub to historic towns like Beaufort West, with its Karoo charm, and Bloemfontein, the judicial capital brimming with rich heritage. The journey is dotted with UNESCO World Heritage Sites such as the Mapungubwe Cultural Landscape and the Vredefort Dome, the world's largest verified impact crater. With every mile, the Road Trip weaves through South Africa's complex history and showcases the stunning variety of its natural landscapes.

Best Time to Go:

To make the most of South Africa's scenic beauty, plan your Western N1 Road Trip during the spring (September to November) and summer months (December to February). This period offers warm, dry weather, perfect for exploring outdoor attractions and ensuring pleasant driving conditions.

Potential Risks:

While exploring the vast stretches of Road, be mindful of potential hazards such as wildlife crossings, which are common in rural areas. Stay vigilant for changing weather patterns and adhere strictly to South African driving regulations. Regular vehicle checks are a must to prevent breakdowns and ensure your safety throughout the long journey.

Interesting Facts for Roadtrippers:

The Western N1 Road Trip caters to drivers of varying experience levels due to the excellent condition of the Roads. Economical planning is key; by managing a moderate budget, you can comfortably cover accommodations, local cuisine, and fuel costs. Engage in the local customs and traditions at each stop to enrich your travel experience.

A good choice for:

The Western N1 Road Trip stands out as a quintessential South African adventure, perfect for those who wish to explore the nation's spellbinding landscapes and delve into its multifaceted cultural heritage. With thoughtful planning and an adventurous spirit, this Road Trip promises an unforgettable tapestry of experiences and memories to last a lifetime.

Facts for safer driving in Republic of South Africa

drink drive limit drink drive limit 0.5
max speed urban max speed urban 60 km/h
max speed rural max speed rural 120 km/h
max speed highway max speed highway 120 km/h
headlights at daytime headlights at daytime off
fire extinguisher fire extinguisher no
tolls tolls yes
seat belts seat belts yes

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