If you’re planning a self-drive adventure in South Africa in 2026, it’s important to know that the South African National Roads Agency SOC Limited (SANRAL) will implement a toll tariff adjustment from 01 March 2026.
This affects rental cars, road trips, and long-distance travel, particularly along major corridors connecting airports, cities, safari lodges, and coastal destinations.
Toll fee increase at a glance
- Effective date: 01 March 2026
- Increase: 3.12% (CPI-linked)
- Lower than last year’s adjustment of 4.85%
SANRAL explains that toll revenue is critical for maintaining, upgrading, and expanding national highways in South Africa, as well as servicing debt incurred from toll road projects. These funds ensure that travellers enjoy safe, reliable, and high-quality roads throughout the country.
Why toll roads matter for international travellers
- Johannesburg > Kruger National Park (N4 corridor)
- Cape Town > Gqeberha (N2 via Tsitsikamma)
- Johannesburg > Durban (N3 highway)
Example toll costs for key routes
Here’s a practical guide for international visitors planning road trips in South Africa:
| Route | Estimated Toll Cost (One Way, Light Vehicle) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Johannesburg → Kruger National Park | ~R280–R300 | Three main toll plazas; ideal for safari access |
| Cape Town → Gqeberha | ~R70–R90 | Mainly Tsitsikamma toll plaza on N2 |
| Johannesburg → Durban | ~R200–R220 | Multiple tolls along the N3 corridor; common for KwaZulu-Natal coast trips |
Please note: Toll costs are approximate and may vary slightly depending on your vehicle class and exact entry/exit points.
Tips for self-drive international travellers
- Check toll payment with your rental company – e-tags or manual payment may apply.
- Carry small Rand denominations for manual tolls if required.
- Include tolls in your budget for long-distance itineraries like Cape Town > Gqeberha or Johannesburg > Kruger National Park.
- Plan routes ahead – use GPS or route planners that highlight toll roads.
Why this matters for your trip
SANRAL toll revenue keeps national highways in top condition, ensuring:
- Smooth drives for tourists exploring the Garden Route, Kruger National Park, and KwaZulu-Natal coast
- Safe access to lodges, national parks, and adventure activities
- Reliable infrastructure for connecting flights, buses, and local transport
For overseas visitors, this means better road quality, shorter travel times, and safer journeys, enhancing your South African self-drive experience.
Bottom Line
From 01 March 2026, toll tariffs on SANRAL-operated roads will increase by 3.12%. While modest, this adjustment ensures that South Africa's roads remain safe, efficient, and ready for international travellers.
Budgeting for tolls on long-distance routes is smart, but overall, self-drive trips remain an affordable and rewarding way to explore South Africa's iconic destinations.
Toll costs are approximate and may vary slightly depending on your vehicle class and exact entry/exit points.
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