Driving from South Africa to Mozambique
Driving to Mozambique beaches from South Africa can be a great adventure, but it's important to be aware of the distance and the roads. The trip from South Africa to Inhassoro in Mozambique covers a distance of approximately 1000 to 1,200 kilometers and can take at least 15 and 20 hours, depending on the route you take and the border crossing procedures.
The journey typically starts in Johannesburg, South Africa, with the route taking you through the N4 highway towards the border town of Komatipoort. Crossing the border from South Africa into Mozambique is generally straightforward, but it's important to check in advance the necessary documents required for border crossing.
From the border, the route continues on the EN4 highway towards Maputo, Mozambique's capital city. The journey is scenic, with plenty to see and experience along the way, including the iconic Lebombo Mountains, open savannahs, and glimpses of rural local life. The road is generally good but drivers should be aware of potholes especially during the rainy season.
From Maputo, visitors should turn onto the EN1 highway, which runs north along the Mozambican coast towards Inhambane, a small town located about 400 kilometers from Maputo. The EN1 is generally a well-maintained highway, although drivers should pay attention to speed limits and road signs.
Upon reaching Inhambane, visitors can experience the town's beautiful beaches and nearby attractions, or continue to Viilankulos which include the Bazaruto Archipelago, a preserved national park and UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visitors who wish to explore the Bazaruto Archipelago should consider boat tours, as the islands are only accessible by boat.
When driving to Inhassoro from South Africa, it's essential to carry all necessary documents, including valid driver's licenses, vehicle registration papers, and proof of insurance. Additionally, travelers should be aware of local laws, customs, and regulations to ensure a safe and enjoyable journey.
Main Car Travel Routes: South Africa to Mozambique
Traveling by car from South Africa to Mozambique is straightforward, with several well-established routes connecting major cities. The most common and practical routes are:
1. Johannesburg to Maputo (via Lebombo/Komatipoort Border)
Distance: Approximately 540 km
Estimated Driving Time: 6 hours
Route:
Depart Johannesburg via the N4 highway eastbound.
Continue on N4, passing through Nelspruit (Mbombela).
Proceed to the Komatipoort border post (South Africa) / Lebombo border post (Mozambique).
After border formalities, continue on the EN4 to Maputo456.
Notes: This is the most popular and direct route, with good road conditions and regular traffic. Maputo is about 100 km from the border. The border post operates daily, but processing times can vary, especially during holidays56.
2. Durban to Maputo (via Kosi Bay/Ponta do Ouro Border)
Distance: Approximately 600–700 km (depending on route)
Estimated Driving Time: 7–9 hours
Route:
Take the N2 north from Durban toward Hluhluwe.
Follow signs to Kosi Bay, then proceed to the Kosi Bay border post.
After crossing, follow the road to Ponta do Ouro and northward to Maputo.
Notes: This route is popular for those heading to southern Mozambican beaches. The road after the border can be sandy or rough; a 4x4 vehicle is recommended.
3. Pretoria to Maputo
Distance: Similar to Johannesburg route, as Pretoria connects to the N4.
Estimated Driving Time: 6–7 hours
Route: Join the N4 eastbound and follow the same directions as from Johannesburg46.
4. Johannesburg to Tofo/Inhambane or Vilankulos (via Maputo)
Route:
Drive Johannesburg to Maputo as above.
From Maputo, continue north on the EN1 highway.
Tofo/Inhambane is about 480 km north of Maputo (6–7 hours).
Vilankulos is about 700 km north of Maputo (9–10 hours)57.
Essential Travel Tips
Border Requirements: Carry your passport, visa (if required), vehicle registration, and a letter from the rental company if using a rental car. Mozambican law requires vehicles to carry two warning triangles, a reflective vest, and a fire extinguisher6.
Car Insurance: Purchase Mozambican third-party insurance at the border if your South African policy does not cover Mozambique6.
Road Conditions: Main highways (N4, EN1, EN4) are generally in good condition. Secondary roads, especially near the coast, may require a 4x4.
Fuel & Cash: Fill up before crossing the border. Carry cash (South African rand or Mozambican metical) for tolls, insurance, and possible "facilitation" fees6.
Border Posts: The main border posts are Komatipoort/Lebombo (for Maputo), Kosi Bay/Ponta do Ouro (for southern beaches), and Giriyondo (for Limpopo National Park access).
Be aware of speed controls driving north of Maputo
The EN1 highway is the primary roadway that runs along the Mozambican coast from Maputo, the capital city, all the way up to Vilankulos. The highway is approximately 1,200 kilometers long, covering some of the most beautiful landscapes and tourist destinations in Mozambique.
Speeding can be a significant risk when driving on the EN1 highway in Mozambique. While the highway is generally well-maintained, it is not uncommon for drivers to speed, especially on the straight stretches of road.
Mozambican traffic police strictly enforce speed limits, and speed cameras are VERY often placed along the EN1 highway. Drivers who exceed the speed limit could be fined or face prosecution, and excessive speed can also lead to the revocation of driving privileges and heavy fines.
As such, it's important to adhere to the posted speed limits and to drive defensively and courteously whilst on the road. Driving at an appropriate speed level not only helps keep yourself safe but also helps to ensure that other road users, such as pedestrians and other motorists, are also protected.
Route Johannesburg to Maputo
Route Maputo to Inhambane
Route Inhambane to Vilankulos
Ressano Garcia border post
Ressano Garcia border post is a major land border crossing between South Africa and Mozambique, situated about 100 kilometers north of Maputo. This border is the busiest border crossing between Mozambique and South Africa.
The border post is open daily from 6:00 am to 10:00 pm, although it's important to note that crossing times can vary depending on factors such as traffic volume and weather conditions. The border post provides an array of facilities and services to help streamline cross-border travel and ensure smooth processing of arrivals and departures.
Facilities and services at the border post include immigration and emigration counters, a customs department, currency exchange facilities, fuel stations, restaurants, and accommodation. Crossing procedures vary depending on whether you are entering or leaving Mozambique.
When entering Mozambique, visitors should have a valid passport with a minimum of 6 months validity, a tourist visa, and a valid driver's license. Visitors should also have proof of sufficient funds and proof of accommodation in Mozambique.
It's recommended to check the latest entry/exit requirements and any travel updates before visiting the Ressano Garcia border post. Additionally, visitors should allow plenty of time to pass through the border crossing, as delays can occur, especially during peak travel seasons or during periods of high traffic volumes.
Delays are common - plan accordingly and stay calm
The Ressano Garcia border crossing is a busy land border between South Africa and Mozambique that can experience delays, especially during peak travel periods. Staff shortages, increased traffic, and the time of day can also contribute to delays. South African and Mozambican officials are working to manage traffic flow and reduce waiting times, but visitors should plan accordingly and be prepared for possible delays. It is important to have all necessary documentation and meet border crossing requirements to help speed up processing time at the border.