Getting to South Africa by Land or Sea

By Land

Borders

South Africa shares borders with six countries: Botswana (1,969 km), Lesotho (1,106 km), Mozambique (496 km), Namibia (1,005 km), Eswatini (Swaziland) (438 km) and Zimbabwe (230 km).

From Neighbouring Countries

There are several border crossings (53 in total), which are easy and quick to use, with all neighbouring countries. The main ones are open 24/7 or at least from 6:00 AM to midnight, while others generally extend their opening hours during South African school holidays. The busiest points are Skilpadsnek for Botswana; Maseru Bridge, Ficksburg Bridge and Sani Pass for Lesotho; Lebombo and Kosi Bay for Mozambique; Nakop and Vioolsdrift for Namibia; Oshoek for Eswatini; and Beit Bridge for crossing to/from Zimbabwe.

Public Transport

Bus: It is very easy to travel by direct bus between countries in Southern Africa. Several companies operate, starting with Intercape, the largest and best-known for its extensive international network. Alternatively, a more budget-friendly option is to use a series of local buses or shared taxis to move from one country to another.

Trains: While the rail network is well-developed in the region, international services are now limited to connections with Zimbabwe and Mozambique (to Maputo). For other countries, international routes no longer exist, and at best, the train stops/starts at a South African city more or less near the border.

By Sea

Ferries

There are no ferry routes between South Africa and other countries.

Cargo

South Africa has several major ports, including Cape Town, Durban and Port Elizabeth, where it is relatively easy to arrive by cargo ship, particularly from the United Kingdom. Notably, among these cargo routes is the only one (operated by the RMS St Helena) providing access to the "forgotten" islands of St Helena and Ascension.

Cruises

This part of the world is not a major cruise destination. Nevertheless, a number of cruise ships do call at or depart from Durban or Cape Town.