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

Johannesburg to East London

Route N1 to Bloemfontein, then the N6 via Aliwal North and KomaniAbout 990 kmDrive 10–11 hours

A long day: fast N1 freeway to Bloemfontein, then the toll-free N6 across the Orange River and through the Eastern Cape highlands.

From drivers, last 3 days

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Before you leave

  • Have a card or cash for the N1 tolls (Grasmere, Vaal and Verkeerdevlei). The N6 has no tolls.
  • It's a 10-hour-plus drive. Consider an overnight stop in Bloemfontein or Aliwal North.
  • Penhoek Pass gets mist, and snow in winter. Check conditions before you go.
  • Fill up in Bloemfontein and Aliwal North; towns are far apart on the N6.

Johannesburg to Bloemfontein

Three N1 toll plazasTollRoad know-how

Grasmere (south of Joburg), Vaal (near Parys) and Verkeerdevlei (near Brandfort).

Long, straight Free State roadsHazardRoad know-how

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

Onto the N6Lane adviceRoad know-how

The N6 starts at an interchange on the N1 western bypass around Bloemfontein. Follow the N6 signs for Aliwal North.

Bloemfontein to Aliwal North

Single carriageway with trucksHazardRoad know-how

Mostly two-lane road with heavy trucks. Only overtake where you can see well ahead.

Small townsSafetyRoad know-how

The N6 runs through or past Reddersburg, Smithfield and Rouxville. Slow down for the town speed limits.

Aliwal NorthFuel & stopsRoad know-how

Fuel and food just after crossing the Orange River into the Eastern Cape.

Aliwal North to East London

Penhoek PassWeatherRoad know-how

Mountain pass north of Komani. Mist is common, and snow can close it in winter.

Livestock and potholesHazardRoad know-how

Animals on the road and patched surfaces are common in the Eastern Cape. Avoid driving this stretch at night.

Through KomaniLane adviceRoad know-how

The N6 runs through Komani (Queenstown) with robots and traffic circles. Follow the N6 signs for East London.

East London endLane adviceRoad know-how

The N6 ends at the N2 interchange on the edge of the city.

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