Hamba kahle means "go well". Tell us your trip and get a list of what to look out for, from other drivers and road know-how your maps app won't give you.

Route guide

Durban to Johannesburg

Route N3 via Pietermaritzburg, Harrismith and HeidelbergAbout 570 kmDrive 6–7 hours

The N3 toll route: steep climbs out of Durban, Van Reenen's Pass into the Free State, then a long, fast run to Gauteng.

From drivers, last 3 days

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Before you leave

  • Have a card or cash ready for five mainline toll plazas.
  • Save the N3 Helpline: 0800 63 43 57 (24 hours).
  • Try to cross Van Reenen's Pass in daylight; mist is common.
  • Check @N3Route on X for closures before you leave, especially on holiday weekends.
  • Plan a break at Harrismith, roughly halfway.

Durban to Pietermaritzburg

Mariannhill Toll PlazaTollRoad know-how

First mainline plaza, near Pinetown. Queues build on Friday afternoons and before long weekends.

Steep hills around PinetownHazardRoad know-how

Loaded trucks crawl uphill and brake hard going down. Keep a big gap and don't sit beside them.

Pietermaritzburg bypassLane adviceRoad know-how

The N3 skirts the city with several exits close together. Stay in the through lanes unless you're stopping.

Pietermaritzburg to Ladysmith

Town HillHazardRoad know-how

Long, steep hill between Pietermaritzburg and Hilton/Howick. Slow trucks, and often misty early in the morning.

Mooi Toll PlazaTollRoad know-how

Mainline plaza near Mooi River. The Mooi River off-ramps are tolled too.

Stops at Mooi River and EstcourtFuel & stopsRoad know-how

Large 24-hour fuel and food stops. A good break before the pass.

Tugela Toll PlazaTollRoad know-how

Mainline plaza near Ladysmith.

Ladysmith to Harrismith

Van Reenen's PassHazardRoad know-how

Steep, winding pass between KwaZulu-Natal and the Free State, and a major truck route. Expect slow trucks and breakdowns; stay patient and don't tailgate.

Mist, and snow in winterWeatherRoad know-how

Thick mist is common on the pass. Snow can close it on cold winter days. Check @N3Route before you set off.

Stuck on the pass?SafetyRoad know-how

Call the N3 Helpline rather than walking along the road. Switch on hazards and stay behind the barrier if you can.

HarrismithFuel & stopsRoad know-how

Big 24-hour fuel and food stops just off the N3. Roughly halfway.

Harrismith to Johannesburg

Wilge Toll PlazaTollRoad know-how

Mainline plaza on the Free State stretch between Harrismith and Villiers.

Long, straight Free State roadsHazardRoad know-how

Fatigue is the main risk here. Swap drivers or stop if you feel drowsy.

De Hoek Toll PlazaTollRoad know-how

The last plaza, just before Heidelberg. After Heidelberg the N3 is toll-free.

Joburg endLane adviceRoad know-how

Traffic builds around Alberton and Germiston. Know whether you need the N12, N17, R24 to OR Tambo, or Buccleuch before you get there.

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