If you’re one of the thousands of holidaymakers heading to KwaZulu-Natal this festive season, welcome! We can’t wait to have you here. From our warm beaches and city attractions to the Midlands countryside and Drakensberg peaks, KZN remains one of South Africa’s favourite end-of-year destinations.
But before you pack the car and start the playlist, it’s important to plan your route. KZN is a province under construction - and while the upgrades promise smoother, safer travel in the future, they also mean ongoing work (and a few delays) along the way.
To help you travel safely and stress-free, here’s a guide to the major roadworks and poor road conditions (with hopeful upgrades soon!) currently flagged by KZN Traffic Alert.
Key Roadworks & Traffic Restrictions
N2 / M41 Gateway Interchange
Ongoing roadworks between the M25 KwaMashu Highway and the M41 Gateway exit. Expect heavier traffic during peak holiday travel times.
N3 / M13 Paradise Valley Interchange
Upgrades continue between Spaghetti Junction and the M13 Paradise Valley interchange. This busy stretch may see congestion, especially on Fridays and public-holiday eves.
N2 Sibaya
Construction is underway between the Sibaya and Umhlanga exits. Stay alert and follow signage.
N3 Cliffdale
Roadworks between Key Ridge and Hammersdale continue as part of major N3 upgrades. Expect narrowed lanes and possible delays.
N3 Umlaas Road
Work is active between Ashburton and Umlaas Road. This section often bottlenecks, so factor in extra travel time.
N3 Peter Brown
Traffic restrictions remain in place on Townhill, with slower movement and truck congestion.
Poor Road Surface Conditions to Watch
R74 Winterton
Rough road surfaces between Winterton and the N3 may affect travel through the Drakensberg region.
R33 Vryheid
Sections between Vryheid and Paulpietersburg are in poor condition — drive cautiously, especially in wet weather.
R33 Dundee
The stretch between Dundee and Bloedrivier has deteriorating road surfaces. Reduce speed and stay aware of sudden dips or potholes.
Quick Tips for a Smoother Trip
- Add 30 to 60 minutes to your estimated travel time during peak festive weekends.
- Keep headlights on and maintain safe following distances in construction zones.
- Have a backup route saved on your GPS in case of sudden closures.
- Pack extra water, snacks, and patience because holiday travel is a marathon, not a sprint.
While these delays can be frustrating, remember: the long-term upgrades will ultimately make KZN’s highways safer, smoother and more efficient. Until then, a little planning goes a long way.
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