- Must visit
Apartheid Museum
Major museum tracing South Africa’s journey from segregation to democracy through immersive displays, film, and moving personal testimonies.
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Cape Town to Johannesburg
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Oct 25
Cheapest price on Oct 25
$52
Average ticket price on Oct 25
$59
Fastest journey on Oct 25
19 h 20 m
Average journey duration on Oct 25
19 h 46 m
Buses on Oct 25
8
Distance
1262 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Cape Town to Johannesburg is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Cape Town to Johannesburg will cost around $59 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $52.
Fast buses
On Sun, Oct 25, we found 8 buses from Cape Town to Johannesburg, including 8 direct services.
On Sun, Oct 25 the direct buses cover the 1262 km distance in an average of 19 h 46 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 19 h 20 m .
On Sun, Oct 25 the slowest buses will take 20 h 15 m and usually involve a change or two along the way, but you might be able to save a few pennies if you’re on a budget.
BIG SKY EXPRESS5:00 PM19h45Cape Town, St George's12:45 PMJohannesburg$521One-way0 transfers
SLEEPLINER6:00 PM19h20Cape Town, St George's1:20 PMJohannesburg$591One-way0 transfers
SLEEPLINER EXPRESS1:00 PM19h45Cape Town, St George's8:45 AMJohannesburg$591One-way0 transfers- SLEEPLINER6:30 PM20h15Cape Town, St George's2:45 PMJohannesburg$591One-way0 transfers
- SLEEPLINER11:30 AM20h45Cape Town, St George's8:15 AMJohannesburg$591One-way0 transfers
- SLEEPLINER6:00 PM19h20Cape Town, St George's1:20 PMJohannesburg$591One-way0 transfers
- BIG SKY EXPRESS5:00 PM19h45Cape Town, St George's12:45 PMJohannesburg$521One-way0 transfers
- SLEEPLINER EXPRESS1:00 PM19h45Cape Town, St George's8:45 AMJohannesburg$591One-way0 transfers
- SLEEPLINER10:15 AM19h45Cape Town, St George's6:00 AMJohannesburg$591One-way0 transfers
- SLEEPLINER6:30 PM20h15Cape Town, St George's2:45 PMJohannesburg$591One-way0 transfers
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Cape Town to Johannesburg
South AfricaSouth Africa
Buses from Cape Town to Johannesburg run on average 6 times per day, taking around 20h 37m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $43 (€36) if you book in advance.
There are 6 buses per day. The earliest bus runs at 08:15, the last at 17:00. The fastest bus covers the 784 miles (1262 km) distance in 16h 40m.
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Distance 784 miles (1262 km) |
Average bus duration 20h 37m |
Cheapest ticket price $43 (€36) |
Buses per day 6 |
Direct buses 6 |
Fastest bus 16h 40m |
First bus 8:15 AM |
Last bus 5:00 PM |
Cheapest Month Sep |
Cheapest Day Fri |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Jul - Sep |
Busiest Day Thu |
Least Busy Day Thu |
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Frequently asked questions about your Cape Town to Johannesburg trip
Use these quick route answers to check fares, travel time, departure options, and direct services before booking from Cape Town to Johannesburg.
Cheap bus tickets from Cape Town to Johannesburg can start from as little as $43 (€36) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Cape Town to Johannesburg is $63 (€53) ; however, prices vary depending on the time of day and class and they tend to be more expensive on the day.
The earliest bus from Cape Town to Johannesburg leaves at 8:15 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Cape Town to Johannesburg leaves at 5:00 PM.
Yes, there are 6 direct buses a day from Cape Town to Johannesburg with Intercape Mainliner, Intercape Mainliner Express, Intercape Sleepliner, MB Transport, Big Sky Express, Intercape. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer direct buses.
Cape Town to Johannesburg Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator MB Transport | Departure Time 06:30AM | Arrival Time 02:00AM | Duration 19h30 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $110 |
Operator Intercape Sleepliner | Departure Time 10:15AM | Arrival Time 06:00AM | Duration 19h45 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $57 |
Operator Intercape Sleepliner | Departure Time 11:30AM | Arrival Time 08:15AM | Duration 20h45 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $58 |
Operator Intercape | Departure Time 01:00PM | Arrival Time 08:45AM | Duration 19h45 | Departure days Mon, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sun | Cheapest price $54 |
Operator Intercape Sleepliner | Departure Time 03:30PM | Arrival Time 01:45PM | Duration 22h15 | Departure days Mon, Thu, Fri, Sun | Cheapest price $59 |
Operator Big Sky Express | Departure Time 05:00PM | Arrival Time 12:45PM | Duration 19h45 | Departure days Thu, Fri, Sun | Cheapest price $52 |
Operator Intercape Sleepliner | Departure Time 06:00PM | Arrival Time 01:20PM | Duration 19h20 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $54 |
Operator Intercape Mainliner | Departure Time 06:15PM | Arrival Time 08:15PM | Duration 26h00 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $61 |
Operator Intercape Sleepliner | Departure Time 06:30PM | Arrival Time 02:45PM | Duration 20h15 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $59 |
Live departures
Cape Town to Johannesburg bus times
The table below shows live departures for Cape Town to Johannesburg buses for today, Saturday, October 24. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| SLEEPLINER | 6:00 PM Cape Town, St George's | 19h20 | 1:20 PM Johannesburg | 0 transfersDirect | |
 MAINLINER | 6:15 PM Cape Town, St George's | 26h00 | 8:15 PM Johannesburg | 0 transfersDirect | |
| SLEEPLINER | 6:30 PM Cape Town, St George's | 20h15 | 2:45 PM Johannesburg | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Sunday, October 25 | |||||
| SLEEPLINER | 10:15 AM Cape Town, St George's | 19h45 | 6:00 AM Johannesburg | 0 transfersDirect | |
| SLEEPLINER | 11:30 AM Cape Town, St George's | 20h45 | 8:15 AM Johannesburg | 0 transfersDirect | |
| SLEEPLINER EXPRESS | 1:00 PM Cape Town, St George's | 19h45 | 8:45 AM Johannesburg | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Bus providers: Intercape Sleepliner, Intercape, Intercape Mainliner, Big Sky Express, Intercape Mainliner Express, MB Transport from Cape Town to JohannesburgYou can travel by bus between Cape Town to Johannesburg with Intercape Sleepliner, Intercape, Intercape Mainliner, Big Sky Express, Intercape Mainliner Express, MB Transport for as low as $43 (€36). When you search for schedules and tickets, Omio will show you the best journey
Intercape Sleepliner
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Intercape Sleepliner Duration
19h 20m
Cheapest Intercape Sleepliner Price
$48 (€40)
Intercape Sleepliner frequency
4 a day
Intercape
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Intercape Duration
18h 30m
Cheapest Intercape Price
$52 (€43)
Intercape frequency
1 a day
Intercape Mainliner
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Intercape Mainliner Duration
19h 45m
Cheapest Intercape Mainliner Price
$55 (€46)
Intercape Mainliner frequency
1 a day
Big Sky Express
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Big Sky Express Duration
19h 45m
Cheapest Big Sky Express Price
$43 (€36)
Big Sky Express frequency
1 a day
Intercape Mainliner Express
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Intercape Mainliner Express Duration
18h 30m
Cheapest Intercape Mainliner Express Price
$55 (€46)
Intercape Mainliner Express frequency
1 a day
MB Transport
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average MB Transport Duration
16h 40m
Cheapest MB Transport Price
$107 (€90)
MB Transport frequency
1 a day
Companies, tickets, and onboard amenities between Cape Town and Johannesburg
Review the details behind your booking, from operators and ticket rules to luggage, onboard amenities, accessibility, and route-specific travel policies.
When taking a bus from Cape Town to Johannesburg, you can count on Intercape Mainliner, Intercape Mainliner Express, Intercape Sleepliner, MB Transport, Big Sky Express, Intercape for the best way to get you to Johannesburg. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Cape Town and Johannesburg and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
No, there are no bathrooms on board the bus from Cape Town to Johannesburg.
No, the bus from Cape Town to Johannesburg has no accessibility options.
No, bikes are not allowed on board the bus from Cape Town to Johannesburg.
No, there is no food available to purchase on board the bus from Cape Town to Johannesburg.
No, luggage for the bus from Cape Town to Johannesburg needs to be booked in addition.
No, there are no additional luggage options for the bus from Cape Town to Johannesburg.
Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on the bus from Cape Town to Johannesburg.
No, there are no USB plugs on board the bus from Cape Town to Johannesburg.
No, there is no WiFi on board the bus from Cape Town to Johannesburg.
Complete guide to Johannesburg
Things to do in Johannesburg
Discover the best of Johannesburg — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Johannesburg trip today.
- Recommended
MOAD Museum of African Design
Contemporary African art museum in a converted grain silo at Maboneng, showing strong rotating exhibitions and a striking industrial interior.
- Recommended
Wits Art Museum
Independent gallery in Braamfontein with thoughtful contemporary exhibitions, artist talks, and a strong focus on African visual culture.
- Must visit
Maboneng Precinct
Creative inner-city precinct with street art, design shops, markets, and galleries. It is a lively base for exploring modern Johannesburg culture.
- Recommended
Zoo Lake
Leafy urban forest with walks, birdlife, lakes, and the Johannesburg Zoo. It is a classic green escape close to central neighborhoods.
- Recommended
The Wilds
Popular ridge-top viewpoint and nature reserve with marked trails, indigenous vegetation, and broad views over Johannesburg’s northern suburbs.
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
- Gluten-free
Pap and Sheba
Slow-cooked maize porridge served with a tomato-onion relish. A staple across South Africa, common at home meals and braais.
Bunny Chow
A long, crusty loaf hollowed out and filled with hot curry. Though linked to Durban, it is widely loved in Johannesburg for hearty street-style eating.
- Gluten-free
Braai
Flame-grilled beef, lamb, or boerewors cooked over wood or charcoal. The braai is central to South African social and food culture.
Marble Restaurant
Refined contemporary dining in Rosebank with seasonal tasting menus and polished service in an intimate, modern setting.
Neighbourgoods Market
Lively Braamfontein market known for local snacks, craft drinks, and many small food stalls in a social urban atmosphere.
Fishmonger
Established Parkhurst restaurant serving Portuguese seafood, peri-peri chicken, and shellfish in a busy, casual setting.
South African rand (R)
Moderate for tourists: hotels and dining are often cheaper than in major European or US cities, but safe transport and upscale areas can raise daily costs.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- R80-R150 for fast food or casual takeaway.
- Mid-range
- R180-R350 per person for a meal.
- Fine dining
- R500+ per person for upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- R30-R45 for cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Tip 10-15% in restaurants if not included. Round up or tip about R10-R20 for taxis. Small tips are appreciated at cafes for good service.
Plan your visit to Johannesburg
Get destination-focused answers for the end of your trip, including what to do, when to go, practical entry details, and tips for making the most of your time in Johannesburg.
South Africa uses the South African Rand (ZAR). Travelers can use both cash and cards, but card payments are widely accepted in cities and tourist areas, while cash is preferred in smaller towns and markets. Carrying some cash is advisable for convenience.
In Johannesburg, travelers should be cautious of petty crime such as pickpocketing and bag snatching, especially in crowded areas and public transport. Common scams include overcharging by taxi drivers and unofficial guides. It is advisable to avoid walking alone at night, use reputable transportation services, and keep valuables secure to reduce risk.
Pack lightweight, versatile clothing suitable for the destination's climate, and use secure, lockable luggage to protect belongings. Keep essential items like travel documents, medication, and valuables in a carry-on bag for easy access. Use packing organizers or cubes to maximize space and maintain order. Lastly, include a small first aid kit and personal hygiene items for added comfort during travel.
FAQs: Bus from Cape Town to Johannesburg
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cape Town to Johannesburg by bus. From journey times and ticket prices to direct connections, first and last departures, and even whether the route is scenic, our FAQs cover everything you need to plan your trip. Whether you’re looking for the fastest bus, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Johannesburg, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Cape Town and Johannesburg including taking a bus and flight.
Tickets are often cheaper when booked early. Traveling during off-peak hours or on weekdays can help you save money. Sort results by price to quickly identify the most affordable options. Check for promotions or discounts available on our website and app.
popular bus stations
Popular bus stations from Cape Town to Johannesburg
Most Cape Town to Johannesburg buses use the Cape Town, St George's to station pair. Use this guide to compare Cape Town and Johannesburg bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.
Departure bus stations in Cape Town
Arrival bus stations in Johannesburg
Cape Town, St George'sCape Town City Centre, Cape Town, 8000, South Africa
Cape Town, St George's bus station facilities and services
Cape Town, St George's has practical services for this route, including Accessibility.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Cape Town, St George's: The place has an entrance that is wheelchair-accessible.
More options for your journey from Cape Town to Johannesburg
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
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