Planning a Joburg to Cape Town road trip? Here’s what it’ll cost you in fuel and tolls this December! Picture Credits: VelvetEscape
By Aisha Zardad
South Africa – The December holidays are here, and many South Africans are planning their festive getaways. One of the most popular trips is the drive from Johannesburg to Cape Town. While some travellers may opt to fly, driving offers the convenience of having a car at your destination and can sometimes be more cost-effective—if you budget carefully.
Distance and Fuel Costs
Starting from Sandton in Gauteng, the journey to Cape Town city centre along the N1 highway covers roughly 1,413 km, taking about 15 hours of driving.
With petrol 95 currently priced at R21.41 per litre (as of the latest fuel adjustment on 3 December 2025), the cost of fuel will depend on your car’s efficiency:
| Fuel Efficiency | Fuel Needed | One-Way Trip | Return Trip |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5.0 L/100km | 71 L | R1,520.11 | R3,040.22 |
| 6.0 L/100km | 85 L | R1,819.85 | R3,639.70 |
| 7.0 L/100km | 99 L | R2,119.59 | R4,239.18 |
| 8.0 L/100km | 113 L | R2,419.33 | R4,838.66 |
| 9.0 L/100km | 127 L | R2,719.07 | R5,438.14 |
| 10.0 L/100km | 141 L | R3,018.81 | R6,037.62 |
Toll Costs Along the N1
Petrol isn’t the only expense on this route. There are four toll booths along the way:
- Grasmere (Gauteng): R27
- Vaal (Free State): R89
- Verkeerdevlei (Free State): R76
- Huguenot Tunnel (Western Cape): R53
That brings total one-way toll fees to R245, or R490 for a return trip.
Total Driving Costs
Combining fuel and tolls, here’s what you can expect to pay for a one-way journey this December:
- Low-efficiency vehicles (5 L/100km): R1,765.11
- High-efficiency vehicles (10 L/100km): R3,263.81
For a return trip, the total cost ranges from R3,530.22 to R6,527.62, depending on your vehicle’s fuel consumption.
Tips for Budgeting Your Trip
- Fill up outside major cities to avoid higher urban fuel prices.
- Plan your toll payments in advance with electronic tags if possible.
- Factor in snacks, accommodation (if needed), and unexpected delays for a stress-free journey.
Driving from Johannesburg to Cape Town can be a scenic and memorable adventure—but knowing your likely costs ahead of time will help ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip.
