The road to Undergerg

The road from #durban to #Underberg is a scenic route that takes you from the coastal city of Durban into the foothills of the Drakensberg Mountains in #KwaZulu-Natal, #southafrica Africa. Here’s an overview based on the most common and practical route:
Route Description

Starting Point: Durban, KwaZulu-Natal
Destination: Underberg, KwaZulu-Natal
Distance: Approximately 209 km (130 miles) by road
Driving Time: Around 2 hours and 41 minutes under normal traffic conditions, though this can vary depending on road conditions, stops, or weather.
Primary Roads:
    N3 Highway: From Durban, head west on the N3, a major toll highway connecting Durban to #Johannesburg. This is a well-maintained, multi-lane road with clear signage in English.
    R617: Exit the N3 at #Howick (Exit 99) and turn onto the R617, a regional road that winds through rural areas and small towns like Mpophomeni, Boston, and Bulwer, leading you directly to Underberg.

Road Conditions

N3: This is a tarred (paved) highway in excellent condition, with toll plazas along the way. It’s busy but safe during the day, with moderate traffic depending on the time.
R617: A narrower, single-lane tarred road that’s generally well-maintained but can have potholes in some sections, especially after heavy rain. It’s a scenic drive with rolling hills and mountain views, though it becomes winding and hilly closer to Underberg. Watch for livestock or pedestrians crossing, particularly in rural areas.

Travel Tips

Best Time to Drive: Daylight hours are recommended, especially on the R617, as it’s unlit and can be prone to mist or fog, particularly in winter (June-August) or early mornings.
Safety: The route is considered safe in terms of traffic and crime during the day, but standard precautions apply—avoid stopping in isolated areas at night, and keep valuables out of sight. The N3 has steady traffic, while the R617 is quieter but not deserted.
Weather: As of March 11, 2025, it’s late summer in South Africa, so expect warm temperatures (20-30°C/68-86°F) in Durban and slightly cooler weather in Underberg due to its higher elevation. Rain is possible, so check forecasts, as wet roads can slow you down on the R617.
Stops Along the Way: Consider a break at Howick (home to Howick Falls) or the Nelson Mandela Capture Site, both just off the N3 near the R617 turnoff.

Practical Details

Fuel: Fill up in Durban or Pietermaritzburg (along the N3) as fuel stations are sparse on the R617 until you reach Underberg.
Navigation: GPS works reliably on this route, but road signs are clear if you prefer manual navigation. The turnoff from N3 to R617 is well-marked.
Parking in Underberg: Once you arrive, parking is available at accommodations or tour operators (e.g., if heading to Sani Pass). It’s a small town, so it’s generally safe to leave your vehicle in designated areas.

This route offers a straightforward drive with a mix of urban highways and picturesque rural roads, making it a pleasant journey into the Southern Drakensberg region. Let me know if you’d like more specific details, like current road conditions or alternative routes!