Easter travel costs as fuel hike hits Limpopo motorists | Review

LIMPOPO – Commuters travelling to Gauteng for the Easter weekend will feel the pinch, just as a fresh fuel price hike takes effect.

Fuel hike drives up Easter travel costs

Motorists heading south on the N1 will encounter five toll gates between Polokwane and Pretoria, with combined fees totalling R296.50 for a one-way trip.

For a return trip, toll fees alone will set motorists back nearly R600, excluding fuel.

That cost is compounded by the latest petrol price increase, which saw petrol rise by R3.06 per litre.

While government introduced a temporary R3 reduction in the general fuel levy to cushion the blow, the price at the pumps still climbed significantly due to higher international oil prices and a weaker rand.

Driving a medium-sized sedan from Polokwane to Johannesburg and back, the combined costs could easily exceed R1 500, which can be a steep price for many.

A poll conducted by Review Online found that around 80% of readers plan to stay at home this Easter, likely due to rising travel costs.

Peak travel times to avoid

If you are planning to be on the roads this weekend, Bakwena Platinum suggests that you should avoid travelling during the following peak congestion periods :

Date	Peak Hours
Thursday, April 2	15:00 – 21:00
Friday, April 3	09:00 – 12:00
Monday, April 6	12:00 – 21:00

Law enforcement will be out in full force over the long weekend, with roadblocks expected at key points along the N1.

Also read: Limpopo roads prepare for Easter rush

N1 and Moria routes expected to see heavy traffic

The N1 is expected to be the busiest route, with traffic volumes surging as thousands of pilgrims head to Moria for the annual ZCC and St Engenas Easter conferences.

Other key routes expected to experience congestion include the R71 between Polokwane and Boyne, and the D4040 road connecting to ZCC St Engenas in Moria.

Traffic volumes set to test N1 capacity again

In 2025, traffic volumes peaked at 2 047 vehicles per hour over just two days. With similar volumes expected this year, the N1 is expected to face its annual test of capacity. 

For those willing to brave the busiest corridor in the province, the advice is simple: leave early, pack patience and keep an eye on the fuel gauge because this Easter, every kilometre comes at a premium.