Transport Mode: Air Travel
- Companies: South African Airways, Ethiopian Airlines
- Duration: Approximately 8 hours including layover
- Distance: Approx. 1,150 kilometers (715 miles)
- Costs: Est. 600 EUR for a one-way ticket
- Roads/Routes: Not applicable
Pro Tip: Book your flight three months in advance for the best fares and consider a flexible ticket option to accommodate any changes in travel plans.
Considering efficiency and the convenience of air travel, flying is the best option for traveling from Johannesburg to Mzimba. Be sure to prepare for a layover, potentially in Addis Ababa, which makes Ethiopian Airlines a favorable choice.
Transport Mode: Bus
- Companies: Greyhound, Intercape, or local bus services
- Duration: Approximately 24 hours
- Distance: Approx. 1,700 kilometers (1,056 miles)
- Costs: Est. 80-100 EUR for a one-way ticket
- Roads/Routes: N1, A1, M1
Pro Tip: For comfort on long-distance journeys, opt for a semi-reclining seat option and bring snacks for the road.
While bus travel is a more economical choice, it involves a significantly longer travel time. Starting from Johannesburg, take the N1 to Polokwane, then continue via the A1 to the Malawi border.
Transport Mode: Car Rental
- Companies: Avis, Hertz, Europcar
- Duration: Approximately 20 hours of driving time
- Distance: Approx. 1,700 kilometers (1,056 miles)
- Costs: Est. 300 EUR for rental, plus fuel costs (around 100 EUR)
- Roads/Routes: N1 to A1 route
Pro Tip: Ensure you have a valid international driving permit and familiarize yourself with the local driving laws ahead of time.
Driving offers the flexibility to explore along the way. The journey could take about 24 hours with breaks, so plan your stops in advance. Start on the N1, heading towards Polokwane, and follow the A1 towards the border to Malawi.
Overall Recommendation
For speed and comfort, I recommend flying via South African Airways or Ethiopian Airlines, as it minimizes travel time and maximizes convenience. However, if budget is a top priority, consider the bus or driving yourself, albeit with longer travel times. Each travel mode has its own appeal depending on your preferences for time, cost, and comfort.