Use flights for national jumps
Cape Town, Johannesburg and Durban are separated by distances that make flying logical for most short trips. The apparent saving of a long drive often disappears into fuel, tolls and an overnight stop.
Keep the scenic roads
The Cape Peninsula, Winelands, Panorama Route and Garden Route justify driving because the intermediate places are the experience. Do not replace a good road trip with airport time.
Build buffers around self-transfer
If domestic and international flights are on separate bookings, the risk sits with the traveller. Allow for delays, baggage collection and check-in cut-offs—or use an overnight buffer.
Frequently asked questions
Should you fly or drive from Cape Town to Johannesburg?
Fly unless the cross-country road journey is itself the holiday. The distance is too large for an efficient short itinerary.
Which airport is best for the Garden Route?
George is the main practical gateway for the central and western Garden Route. Gqeberha can work well when continuing to the eastern end or an Eastern Cape safari.
The route makes sense. Now find the flight.