According to historical data, the Easter holiday sees some of the heaviest annual traffic in South Africa. Tens of thousands of families embark on journeys along popular routes to visit their favourite holiday destinations over Easter for some well-earned rest and relaxation.
And fuel prices saw a marked reduction last month, which should tempt even more cash-savvy motorists onto the roads in 2025. So, what days and times are the busiest on the roads? And what should the savvy traveler avoid so they reach their destination safely, in good time and without stress?
2025 EASTER HOLIDAY RUSH
Well, according to the Road Traffic Management Corporation (RTMC) and toll operator SANRAL, the days and times to avoid are the following:
- Traffic typically peaks the day before Good Friday, so, today, Thursday 17 April 2025.
- N3 toll road to KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) sees a peak of nearly 1 500 vehicles per hour entering the province from Gauteng.
- Time wise, volumes increase exponentially between 12h00 (noon) to 18h00, before dropping off by 20h00 in the evening.
- The most severe congestion this Easter holiday will therefore ramp up from 14h00 to 18h00 today, as holidaymakers make their dash out of the cities.
MAJOR ROUTES TO TRY AVOID
Moreover, SANRAL’s historical data can point to the routes with the highest traffic volumes, too. So, if you plan to be on any major thoroughfares, consider adjusting your departure time. Or simply be ready for delays …
The N3 to Durban will undoubtedly be South Africa’s busiest road over the Easter holiday. Plenty of Gauteng city dwellers make it a ritual to travel to warm, sunny KZN this time of year. Watch out for toll-road back-ups and accidents aplenty.
The N1 toll road to Beitbridge is popular with foreign nationals heading back to Zimbabwe, as well as holidaymakers en route to the Kruger National Park.
The N2 along the Garden Route will experience its highest traffic volumes so far in 2025.
SAFETY MEASURES
Traffic authorities typically implement additional safety measures during this time. This includes increased visibility of traffic officers and roadblocks. As we’ve already reported, authorities are taking a zero-tolerance approach to drunk driving, too.
Therefore, savvy motorists may want to avoid the worst congestion. Departing before 12h00 (noon) on Thursday 17 April. Or, alternatively, postponing travel until early Friday morning to provide some relief.
WILL YOU BE ON THE ROAD THIS EASTER BREAK?
Let us know by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1.
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