How much does it cost to: Take a roadtrip from Joburg to Durban

One of the most popular roadtrips in South Africa is the drive from Johannesburg to Durban and vice versa. How much does it cost to do the roughly six-hour drive in 2026?

HOW MUCH FUEL DO YOU NEED TO BUDGET FOR?

Due to the increase in fuel prices this year, the amount you would need to budget for your roadtrip would have jumped in comparison to previous years. In 2026, you can expect to pay roughly R2800 to R3800 for a return trip in a petrol car. This is dependant on your car and fuel efficiency.

The N3 route from central Johannesburg to Durban’s CBD is approximately 570km long and expected to take six hours. This makes a return trip about 1140km. Tolls are also necessary to budget for. After the March 2026 increase, a one-way trip along the N3 costs R347.50 for light vehicles. You will pass five toll gates: De Hoek, Wilge, Tugela, Mooi, and Mariannhill. That comes to about R695 for the return journey.

A toll-free alternative exists via the R103 and the old main road through Villiers, Warden, Harrismith and Van Reenen Pass. However, it is slower.

Fuel is the major cost. Inland 95 petrol was R26.92 a litre in September, but the Central Energy Fund projected an October increase that would take it to about R29.75, and other projections put it as high as R29.98 a litre when the adjustment takes effect on Wednesday 7 October.

For a return trip at that price, a fuel-efficient car using 6 litres per 100km would spend about R2050 on petrol, bringing the total with tolls to roughly R2750. An average car using 7 litres per 100km would spend about R2400 on fuel, or roughly R3100 in total. A thirstier car or small SUV using 9 litres per 100km would spend about R3080 on fuel, or roughly R3770 in total.

Diesel drivers shouldn’t expect relief either, as wholesale diesel was projected to rise by more than R2.60 a litre.

OTHER COSTS TO CONSIDER

While the other costs to consider are subject to the reason you’re visiting Durban (or Johannesburg), take a look at what else you could be spending on.

• Accommodation: This varies widely depending on season and location
• A couple of meal and coffee stops along the N3
• Activities during your trip and more fuel to get around

There are some easy ways to save. Coastal petrol is cheaper than inland, so topping up once you reach KwaZulu-Natal can work in your favour. Keeping a steady speed helps too, since highway efficiency drops quickly above 110km/h. Splitting costs with passengers is the biggest saver of all.

So, you will need tp budget about R3000 to R3500 for fuel and tolls in a typical car, then add whatever you plan to spend on accommodation and spending money.

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