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.