We’ve officially entered the final stretch of 2025, and with warmer weather setting in, many Gauteng residents are preparing to head down to the coast for a well-deserved holiday. But before packing the car, there’s one important factor to consider the rising cost of fuel.
Anyone planning to drive from Johannesburg to Durban should expect to spend at least R1,930.60 on fuel and tolls for a return trip.
From Joburg to Durban
The distance from central Gauteng to Durban is approximately 584km, with an average travel time of six hours. The inland price for petrol 95 currently sits at R21.62 per litre, following the October fuel price adjustments.
Fuel costs vary depending on the vehicle’s efficiency. Here’s a breakdown of what drivers can expect to pay:
Efficiency (l/100km) | Fuel Needed (litres) | One-Way Trip (R) | Return Trip (R) |
---|---|---|---|
5.0 | 29.20 | R631.30 | R1,262.60 |
6.0 | 35.04 | R757.56 | R1,515.13 |
7.0 | 40.88 | R883.83 | R1,767.65 |
8.0 | 46.72 | R1,010.09 | R2,020.17 |
9.0 | 52.56 | R1,136.35 | R2,272.70 |
10.0 | 58.40 | R1,262.61 | R2,525.22 |
11.0 | 64.24 | R1,388.87 | R2,777.74 |
12.0 | 70.08 | R1,515.13 | R3,030.26 |
13.0 | 75.92 | R1,641.39 | R3,282.78 |
Toll Fees Add to the Bill
In addition to fuel, motorists must also account for five toll plazas on the N3 route to Durban. Based on the latest toll tariffs (March 2025), here’s what drivers can expect to pay:
- Mooi Plaza – R67
- Wilge Plaza – R90
- Tugela Plaza – R96
- De Hoek Plaza – R65
- Marian Hill Plaza – R16
That adds up to R334 one-way, and R668 for a round trip.
The Total Cost to Get There
- Most fuel-efficient cars (5.0l/100km): R631.30 (fuel) + R334 (tolls) = R965.30 one-way
- High consumption vehicles (13.0l/100km): R1,641.39 (fuel) + R334 (tolls) = R1,975.39 one-way
When doubled for the return journey, the total cost ranges between R1,930.60 and R3,950.78.
With the current fuel price hovering around R21 per litre, a road trip to Durban isn’t exactly cheap. Drivers can reduce costs by ensuring their vehicles are serviced, travelling light, or carpooling. For those with fuel-efficient cars, the trip remains manageable but for larger SUVs or bakkies, the fuel bill can quickly escalate.
Whether for a beach holiday or a quick getaway, budgeting for fuel and tolls is essential before hitting the road.
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