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How to Get to Newcastle

How to Get to Newcastle

Newcastle Kwazulu-natal, South Africa Travel Guide

Main Airports & Airlines

King Shaka International DUR

This is the major international and domestic gateway for KwaZulu-Natal, approximately 330 kilometers south of Newcastle. Newcastle Airport (FANC) is a small regional airport for private and charter flights, no commercial passenger services.

Airline Operations to DUR

  • Domestic: SAA, Airlink, CemAir, FlySafair, Lift.
  • Common Domestic Routes: Durban (DUR) to Johannesburg (JNB) and South Africa (CPT).
  • International: Limited direct flights to DUR (e.g., Dubai via Emirates). The majority of foreign visitors connect using JNB.

Seasonal Fluctuations & Transfers

Flight prices typically increase during South African school vacations (December-January, Easter, July) and major public holidays. Booking booking reserve flights early, notably for domestic routes during peak times, gains better rates. International flight prices fluctuate based on demand and seasonality.

Transfers from DUR to Newcastle

  • Car Rental: Most popular, offers flexibility. Major companies at DUR. Drive approx. 3.5-4 hours (N2 north, then N11 north).
  • Private Shuttle/Taxi: Pre-arrange. Convenient, can be costly for single travelers.
  • Bus: Intercity services (Intercape, Eldo Coaches) Durban to Newcastle. Need separate transfer from DUR to Durban central bus station.

Flight Deals

Discover affordable flights with Dollar Flight Club for international and domestic routes.

Compare Flights

Use Skyscanner to compare flight prices from various airlines and find the best deals to DUR.

Car Rental Offers

Find great car rental offers at King Shaka International Airport through DiscoverCars.com.

Airport Facilities DUR

Services Available

  • Retail and Dining: Duty-free, restaurants, cafes.
  • Car Rental: Major companies have desks.
  • Financial Services: Currency exchange, ATMs.
  • Lounges: Airline and independent lounges.

Connectivity & Convenience

  • Wi-Fi access throughout the airport.
  • Information desks.
  • Accessibility facilities.
  • Immigration and customs processing.

Transfer Tip

Car Rental from DUR

Consider renting a car directly from King Shaka International Airport for maximum flexibility in exploring Newcastle and the surrounding region.

Bus from Durban

Budget-conscious travelers consider intercity buses from Durban to Newcastle.

Land Transportation: Reaching Newcastle by Road

Bus Travel & Self-Driving

Land travel has a scenic and often more direct route to Newcastle from other major South African cities. Several intercity bus companies serve Newcastle. Driving yourself offers the most flexibility for exploring.

Bus Companies & Routes

  • Companies: Intercape, Eldo Coaches, Translux.
  • Routes: Connects Newcastle with Johannesburg, Pretoria, and Durban.
  • Book in advance, especially peak periods.

Driving Requirements & Safety

Driving on the left-hand side of the road. A current driver's''s driving license from your country of origin, with an International Driving Permit (IDP) if your license is not in English, is necessary. Rent a automobile from major airports or cities with necessary insurance.

Road Conditions & Safety

  • N11 national route generally well-maintained. Regional roads vary, some potholes.
  • Avoid long distances at night due to pedestrians, animals, poor lighting.
  • Vigilance against roadside crime. Do not stop in isolated areas.

Driving Laws & "Robots"

Observe all posted speed limit signs (generally SIXTY kilometers/h urban, 100 kilometers per hour provincial, 120 kilometers per hour national). Seatbelts are mandatory for all occupants. Zero tolerance for driving under the influence of alcohol. South Africans call traffic lights "robots."

Important Driving Notes

  • Drive on the left.
  • "Robots" are traffic lights.
  • Watch for wildlife and pedestrians, especially dawn/dusk.

Border Crossing & Train Travel

Newcastle is a landlocked city within South Africa. Border crossing information applies only if traveling from neighboring countries. Shosholoza Meyl, SA's long-distance rail service, is without a direct route to Newcastle. Nearest major train depots are Durban or Johannesburg.

Cross-Border & Rail Notes

  • Standard border crossing procedures for neighboring countries apply.
  • Passenger rail travel generally not a convenient option for Newcastle.
  • Consider buses or journeys by automobile from Durban/Johannesburg after rail.

Safety Reminder for Drivers

  • Always maintain vigilance on roads.
  • Avoid stopping in isolated areas.
  • Plan routes during daylight hours.
  • Keep car doors locked.
  • Windows closed, especially at intersections.
  • Do not leave valuables visible in car.

Sea/River Arrivals: Not Applicable

Inland City Status

Newcastle, KwaZulu-Natal, is a city not on the coast. Therefore, sea or river arrivals are not applicable for direct access to the city.

No Water Access

  • No direct access via sea.
  • No direct reachable by major rivers for transport.
  • Geographical location precludes water-based transport.

Recreational Boating Only

Ntshingwayo Dam near Newcastle supports recreational boating activities, but these do not serve as a form of transportation to or from the city.

Water Activities

  • Fishing at Ntshingwayo Dam.
  • Recreational boating at the dam.
  • Swimming not recommended in natural freshwater.

Departure Information: Planning Your Exit

Exit Fees or Taxes

No specific exit fees or taxes are typically levied at From South africa airports beyond what is already included in your airfare.

Departure Timing

Domestic flights (from DUR): 1.5-2 hours prior. International flights (from DUR or JNB): 2.5-3 hours prior. Bus/Car: Allow for traffic delays.

VAT Refunds

If you purchased goods eligible for a VAT refund, gather all original tax invoices and complete procedures at the airport prior to checking luggage.

Smooth Departure

Planning your exit carefully features a stress-free conclusion to your Newcastle visit.