Route guide
the Drakensberg to Durban
Route N3 to Estcourt, then Winterton and the R600 (Central Berg)About 230 kmDrive 2½–3 hours
N3 toll road up through the Midlands, then rural roads into the mountains.
This guide was written for Durban to the Drakensberg. The same roads apply on your trip, but read exits, merges and lane tips the other way round.
From drivers, last 3 days
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Before you leave
- Have a card or cash for Mariannhill and Mooi toll plazas.
- Fill up at Estcourt or Winterton; there's little fuel in the valleys.
- Summer afternoons bring heavy thunderstorms; winter can bring snow higher up.
- Arrive in daylight; resort roads are dark and have animals.
Champagne Valley to Mooi River
Afternoon stormsWeatherRoad know-how
Summer thunderstorms bring heavy rain and hail. Pull over safely if visibility drops.
Rural roadsHazardRoad know-how
Potholes, cattle and goats on the road. Slow down, especially near villages.
Turning off the N3Lane adviceRoad know-how
For Central Berg resorts, head for Winterton then the R600 into Champagne Valley. For the Northern Berg, go via Bergville (the Bergville N3 exit is tolled).
Mooi River to Durban
Mooi Toll PlazaTollRoad know-how
Near Mooi River.
Town Hill climbHazardRoad know-how
Steep, busy climb north of Pietermaritzburg. Slow trucks and morning mist.
Mariannhill Toll PlazaTollRoad know-how
First plaza, near Pinetown.