Is there a way to reach Cape Town from Johannesburg without flying?

Taking the bus is the best way to travel to Cape Town without flying. The bus trip is an affordable, safe and convenient way to travel between the two cities. Taking a ride with other travelers through carpool services is an additional option to consider.

How long does it take to get to Cape Town from Johannesburg by bus?

On average, the trip from Johannesburg to Cape Town takes around 18h 20m, although the fastest bus will take 12h, on average. This is the time it takes to travel the 784 miles (1263 km) that separate the two cities.

What is the distance between Johannesburg and Cape Town?

The distance separating Johannesburg and Cape Town is 784 miles (1263 km).

How frequently do buses run from Johannesburg to Cape Town each day?

About 3 buses travel this route daily, provided by Intercape, WEZWECOACHES and Greyhound South Africa. The number of buses from Johannesburg to Cape Town can differ depending on the day of the week. Want to make your bus journey from Johannesburg to Cape Town as easy as possible? Busbud has got you covered! Browse schedules, pick the perfect bus for your travel style and budget - all in one place.

At what times does the first and last bus depart from Johannesburg to Cape Town?

The bus service operates between 7:15am and 8:30pm.

What are the departure and arrival stations when taking the bus from Johannesburg to Cape Town?

If you're headed to Cape Town from Johannesburg, chances are that your bus will leave from Johannesburg Airport and arrive at Bellville - 8 Mabel St. These are the main departure and arrival locations on this route, but you could find others that could be a better fit for your travel plans.

What is the most cost-effective way to get from Johannesburg to Cape Town?

You can save a lot of money on your trip from Johannesburg to Cape Town by choosing to travel by bus. The lowest tickets for this trip cost as little as $20.

What is the ticket price for the bus trip from Johannesburg to Cape Town?

You can expect to pay around $45 for a bus ticket. In the last 30 days, the prices ranged from $20 to $89, so it's good to do your research before booking.

What are the best sights and things to do in Cape Town?

Once in Cape Town, you can start exploring the city and discover its surroundings. The top sights and things to do are Table Mountain Aerial Cableway, Two Oceans Aquarium, Franschhoek, Groot Constantia and Bo Kaap.

Can I pay for the bus tickets with Instant EFT?

Yes! Busbud became partners with Stitch to introduce Instant EFT as a payment method, so you can pay by transferring money directly from your South African bank account. To pay for your bus tickets, simply select "Instant EFT" as the payment method during checkout and follow the instructions. And there you go! In just a few easy steps, you can book your bus tickets and be on your way! The process is secure and efficient, clearing the transaction immediately

Johannesburg to Cape Town Bus Tickets

TodayJan 19

from $25

TomorrowJan 20

from $24

TueJan 21

from $24

WedJan 22

from $24

ThuJan 23

from $24

FriJan 24

from $26

SatJan 25

from $26

SunJan 26

Cheap buses leaving tomorrow

One passenger / one way

This trip is recommended because it is: Cheapest
Departure time: January 20 at 6:00pm
Departure city: Johannesburg
Departure location: Johannesburg Park Station, Johannesburg
Arrival time: January 21 at 12:30pm
Destination city: Cape Town
Destination location: Cape Town
Operated by: Wez We Coaches
Vehicle: BusDuration: 18h 30m
This trip is recommended because it is: Fastest
Departure time: January 20 at 7:00pm
Departure city: Johannesburg
Departure location: Johannesburg Park Station, Johannesburg
Arrival time: January 21 at 10:00am
Destination city: Cape Town
Destination location: Cape Town
Operated by: Wez We Coaches
Vehicle: BusDuration: 15h
Departure time: January 20 at 7:15am
Departure city: Johannesburg
Departure location: Intercape Office, C/O Rissik and Wolmarans Street (Johannesburg Station)
Arrival time: January 21 at 8:45am
Destination city: Cape Town
Destination location: Bellville - Intercape Office, 8 Mabel Street (turnoff from Durban Road)
Operated by: Intercape Mainliner
Vehicle: BusDuration: 1d 1h
Departure time: January 20 at 11:30am
Departure city: Johannesburg
Departure location: Intercape Office, C/O Rissik and Wolmarans Street (Johannesburg Station)
Arrival time: January 21 at 6:30am
Destination city: Cape Town
Destination location: Bellville - Intercape Office, 8 Mabel Street (turnoff from Durban Road)
Operated by: Intercape Sleepliner
Vehicle: BusDuration: 19h
Departure time: January 20 at 12:00pm
Departure city: Johannesburg
Departure location: Intercape Office, C/O Rissik and Wolmarans Street (Johannesburg Station)
Arrival time: January 21 at 8:00am
Destination city: Cape Town
Destination location: Bellville - Intercape Office, 8 Mabel Street (turnoff from Durban Road)
Operated by: Intercape Mainliner Express
Vehicle: BusDuration: 20h

Accepted payments

Bus Johannesburg to Cape Town: Trip Overview

Average ticket price$45

Average bus trip duration18h 20m

Number of daily buses3

Earliest bus departure7:15am

Distance782 miles (1261 km)

Latest bus departure8:30pm

Compare bus companies

Intercape

3.5/537,841 reviews

Staff4.3

Timeliness3

Cleanliness4.1

Wifi1.2

Passengers have shared positive feedback about the bus service, highlighting friendly and professional drivers, comfortable seating, cleanliness, and punctuality. However, some concerns were raised regarding non-functional charging ports and limited legroom. Additionally, there were mentions of hygiene issues in toilets and a need for improved communication from staff during stops. Overall satisfaction remains high despite these minor inconveniences.

Intercape Mainliner Express Johannesburg Cape Town recent customer reviews

The mainliner was not what I expected. I personally prefer the Sleepliner, but all and all it was a great smooth ride with the driver checking with everyone at every stop that they're in the bus before leaving

Sizwe H.

January 13, 2025

travelling to Cape Town was not a nice experience, firstly we left 1hr and 15 minutes late and arrive in CapeTown 2hrs and half late.

Susan B.

January 7, 2025

The bus broke down and we sat inside the bus, nobody even inform us what was happening. Until after a while, the driver came and tell the people "we have a problem, we waiting for the mechanic, so only after 45 minutes we left. The same thing happen in Bloemfontein. It's not the first time we make use of InterCape, but this time was very dissapointed.

Heidi K.

January 3, 2025

WEZWECOACHES

1.5/5456 reviews

Staff2.1

Timeliness0.5

Cleanliness1.9

Wifi0.5

Many users appreciate the friendly and professional staff, as well as the comfortable travel experience. The service is generally reliable with affordable prices. However, some reviews mention issues such as delays in departure times and occasional navigation problems during trips. Despite these concerns, customers often feel safe and satisfied overall with their journeys.

Wez We Coaches Johannesburg Cape Town recent customer reviews

There was no bus. Couldn’t get to Cape Town. I think it is time for Hello Peter. Still stuck in JHB.

Mashudu T.

January 6, 2025

The experience was very bad, we kept being moved from one bus to another. Paid full for 4 people only to have one kid on ons adults lap.

Elizabeth C.

January 5, 2025

Bus was dirty, seats are stiff and uncomfortable for a 16hours journey, drivers very rude and always treating us that they will fight us or even take us out the bus, busy was very late, I booked a bus for 3:30pm I left joburg at 7pm that time I have responsibility to do, no one cares about us!!! Horrible Horrible Horrible experience!!! Rather waste your money on other services not Wez We!!!

Siphiwe K.

December 30, 2024

Greyhound South Africa

3/56,820 reviews

Staff4.1

Timeliness2.6

Cleanliness4

Wifi1.2

Greyhound buses are appreciated for their comfortable rides, friendly and patient drivers, as well as a generally professional service. However, some users have noted concerns regarding punctuality with departures and arrivals. Additionally, issues such as hygiene standards on the bus and malfunctioning charging systems were mentioned in several reviews.

Greyhound Johannesburg Cape Town recent customer reviews

Very fantastic! All communications were clearly no delays. The freshness of the bus and clean were up to standard

Tafadzwa J.

January 18, 2025

The bus broke down at Worcester. We waited for two hours to get a replacement coach.

Sibonelo M.

January 17, 2025

Best bus ever I would reccomend a million times, keep it up Greyhound is the BEST❤️

Angela S.

January 7, 2025

Eagle Liner

2.5/57,862 reviews

Staff3.6

Timeliness2.1

Cleanliness3.5

Wifi0.7

Many users appreciated the overall service, highlighting punctuality and courteous staff. The buses were noted for being comfortable with good communication from the company. However, some reviews mentioned issues such as late arrivals due to multiple stops or scheduling changes without prior notice. Additionally, there were comments about small seat sizes and non-functional toilets on board.

Eagle Liner Johannesburg Cape Town recent customer reviews

We departed at the exact time .There were no delays. The bus was extremely clean .it really exceeded my expectations. The drivers were lovely. We arrived in time

Evident M.

January 13, 2025

I love the fact that windows can open. I would change the size of the seats and spacing between rows for more comfort

Danna M.

December 4, 2024

The bus was clean and comfortable, which I appreciated. However, it was very cold at night as there was no heater, and we arrived three hours later than scheduled, which was disappointing.

Noleen D.

December 3, 2024

Intercity Xpress

3/57,963 reviews

Staff3.9

Timeliness2.3

Cleanliness3.7

Wifi1

Many users appreciated the comfortable and clean buses, along with friendly and communicative staff. However, there were consistent mentions of delays in departure times across several reviews. Additionally, some passengers noted issues with non-functional charging ports during their journey. Despite these concerns, many found the overall travel experience to be positive and enjoyable.

Intercity Xpress Johannesburg Cape Town recent customer reviews

My 1st long distance drive and it wad great. Bus was on time but we left hour late cos they waited for everyone else to come which was kind of them

Danielah O.

December 19, 2024

It was my first time to take that bus everything was fine arrived early today before my working time ❤️🤩

Asenathi N.

November 15, 2024

1 hour delay departure, no explanation, no apologies, luggages exposed to danger as there were no labels and the passengers can’t enjoy the trip while worried for their stuff safety

Marcelo D.

September 21, 2024

ZA bus companies: Intercape, Big Sky, Intercity Xpress, Greyhound South Africa, Eagle Liner, APM WC, Delta Coaches

Johannesburg to Cape Town Buses

With Busbud, comparing and booking tickets for a bus from Johannesburg to Cape Town is a breeze. Browse through an extensive selection of bus fares and bus schedules to find the best deals.

Bus service from Johannesburg to Cape Town will be provided by the most trusted bus companies.

Whether it is cheap bus tickets or more luxurious buses going to Cape Town from Johannesburg, we help you find what you're looking for based on how much of a budget you have.

Where are the popular stops in Johannesburg and Cape Town?

Stops in Johannesburg

A - Park City Transit Centre, Johannesburg Station

B - Johannesburg Airport

C - Bethrams

D - Eaglecity Kerk Street

E - Kerk Street

F - Southgate Shopping Centre

Stops in Cape Town

A - Bellville - 8 Mabel St.

B - Bus Station - Old Marine Drive

C - Bellville - Sasol Oaks Service Station

D - Bus Station - Civic Centre

E - Bellville

F - Civic Centre

Frequently asked questions for your trip Johannesburg - Cape Town

Is there a way to reach Cape Town from Johannesburg without flying?
How long does it take to get to Cape Town from Johannesburg by bus?
What is the distance between Johannesburg and Cape Town?
How frequently do buses run from Johannesburg to Cape Town each day?
About 3 buses travel this route daily, provided by Intercape, WEZWECOACHES and Greyhound South Africa. The number of buses from Johannesburg to Cape Town can differ depending on the day of the week. Want to make your bus journey from Johannesburg to Cape Town as easy as possible? Busbud has got you covered! Browse schedules, pick the perfect bus for your travel style and budget - all in one place.
At what times does the first and last bus depart from Johannesburg to Cape Town?
What are the departure and arrival stations when taking the bus from Johannesburg to Cape Town?
What is the most cost-effective way to get from Johannesburg to Cape Town?
What is the ticket price for the bus trip from Johannesburg to Cape Town?
What are the best sights and things to do in Cape Town?
Can I pay for the bus tickets with Instant EFT?
Yes! Busbud became partners with Stitch to introduce Instant EFT as a payment method, so you can pay by transferring money directly from your South African bank account. To pay for your bus tickets, simply select "Instant EFT" as the payment method during checkout and follow the instructions. And there you go! In just a few easy steps, you can book your bus tickets and be on your way! The process is secure and efficient, clearing the transaction immediately

Find cheapest prices for buses

Price is for a one-way ticket for one passenger and based on past searches.

Best price found

01/17

$66

01/18

$40

Today

$25

01/20

$24

01/21

$24

01/22

$24

01/23

$24

01/24

$26

The cheapest trip from Johannesburg to Cape Town was searched and found on Jan 20, 2025 with a price of $24

To save money and be sure you have the best seat, it's a good idea to buy your bus tickets from Johannesburg to Cape Town, as early as possible.

You can expect to pay from $24 to $84 for a bus ticket from Johannesburg to Cape Town based on the last 2 days. You can expect to find the cheapest price for the trip at $24 which is on 2025-01-20.

About Bus Travel

Bus Travel Tips

Meet and talk to locals at the bus stations while traveling from Johannesburg to Cape Town.There is no better way to get inside travel information while exploring a new city than to go straight to its people.

Much more than a mere vehicle taking you from Johannesburg to Cape Town, riding the bus will expose you to some of the most stunning panoramas while enroute to your final bus stop.

Buses are energy-efficient. Carrying a passenger over 100 kms by coach only takes 0.6-0.9 liters of gas. Compare that to the 2.6 liters required by high-speed train, 6.6 liters by airplane and 7.6 liters by gas-powered car, and it's clear that the bus is a more environmentally-conscious option for your bus transportation from Johannesburg to Cape Town.

Make a music playlist for your bus ride from Johannesburg to Cape Town, and enjoy the scenery to tunes from your own personal soundtrack.

Did you know?

The Superbus, created by a Dutch engineer is the world's fastest bus with 250 km/h. Too bad it's only a prototype for now.

The average number of passengers on a coach bus is 32 meaning that a bus could replace a minimum of at least 30 cars!

The word 'bus' is an abbreviation of 'omnibus" which means 'for all' in Latin as buses were meant to be transportation for everybody.

Will you be returning to Johannesburg by bus?

Bus from Johannesburg to Cape Town

Top traveled bus routes

Why choose Busbud?

The Best Way To Book Bus and Train Tickets

Busbud helps you easily search, compare and book intercity bus tickets on a worldwide scale with our comprehensive list of bus routes and schedules. With Busbud, wherever you go, you have a worldwide bus station within reach and available in your own language and currency. Busbud partners with safe and reliable bus companies throughout the world such as Greyhound, Eurolines, ALSA, OUIBUS (BlaBlaBus), National Express and many others so you can buy tickets without a worry.

One passenger / one way

Cheap buses leaving tomorrow

One passenger / one way

One passenger / one way

One passenger / one way

One passenger / one way

One passenger / one way

One passenger / one way

Bus Johannesburg to Cape Town: Trip Overview

Compare bus companies

Johannesburg to Cape Town Buses

Where are the popular stops in Johannesburg and Cape Town?

Frequently asked questions for your trip Johannesburg - Cape Town

Is there a way to reach Cape Town from Johannesburg without flying?

How long does it take to get to Cape Town from Johannesburg by bus?

What is the distance between Johannesburg and Cape Town?

How frequently do buses run from Johannesburg to Cape Town each day?

At what times does the first and last bus depart from Johannesburg to Cape Town?

What are the departure and arrival stations when taking the bus from Johannesburg to Cape Town?

What is the most cost-effective way to get from Johannesburg to Cape Town?

What is the ticket price for the bus trip from Johannesburg to Cape Town?

What are the best sights and things to do in Cape Town?

Can I pay for the bus tickets with Instant EFT?

Find cheapest prices for buses

About Bus Travel

Bus Travel Tips

Did you know?

Will you be returning to Johannesburg by bus?

Top traveled bus routes

Why choose Busbud?

The Best Way To Book Bus and Train Tickets

Popular Buses Connecting Johannesburg

Buses Leaving from Johannesburg

Buses Going to Johannesburg

Popular Buses Connecting Cape Town

Buses Leaving from Cape Town

Buses Going to Cape Town

Popular routes in this country

Popular airport transfers

Popular international trips