The N1 passes through several of South Africa's major economic centres, including Bloemfontein, Pretoria and Polokwane, making it a critical artery for both domestic trade and cross-border transport into the rest of Southern Africa.
Source: South African National Roads Agency (SANRAL)
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the N1 highway?
It stretches roughly 2,000 kilometres from Cape Town to the Beitbridge border post with Zimbabwe, making it one of the longest national routes in the country.
Is the N1 a toll road?
Sections of it are — particularly around Gauteng — with toll plazas funding maintenance of this heavily used corridor.
What other major cities does the N1 pass through?
Besides Bloemfontein, Pretoria and Polokwane, it also passes near Beaufort West and Colesberg, linking the Western, Northern, Free State, Gauteng and Limpopo provinces.