Here’s What Motorists Will Pay in Toll Fees in 2026
South Africa’s economy really took a knock earlier this year due to the Middle East conflict and uncertainties over oil prices and petrol. And the bad news didn’t just end there - it continued in February, too. Together with the fuel pump strain, motorists will have to factor in additional costs into their commutes, especially for those who travel long distances.
From 1st March 2026, South Africans will pay slightly more on a few major routes. The South African National Roads Agency (SANRAL) updated tariff prices by 3.12% this year, slightly less than last year’s 4.85% hike and below 2025’s CPI (Consumer Price Index) figure of 3.2%.
SANRAL General Manager for Communications and Marketing, Visi Mona, told the media, “The funds go a long way towards ensuring that SANRAL fulfils its mandate of delivering quality road infrastructure that adds value to the lives of South Africans".
He continued to say that toll revenue is necessary for the upkeep of the nation's infrastructure and plays a key role in maintaining service delivery. And considering the circumstances, “SANRAL is empathetic to the South African public, considering the current state of the economy,” he concluded.
What are the Carousel Plaza Fees?
SANRAL and other publications have released newly updated toll fees. They can be summarised as follows:
Plaza Toll Gate Fees in South Africa
At this moment, the most expensive toll gate is the Machadodorp plaza, situated on the N14 in Mpumalanga (between Mbombela and eMahleni). Motorists can expect to pay:
- R126 for ‘Class 1’ vehicles, an increase from R122 in 2025.
- R729 for truck drivers or drivers operating a vehicle with a lot more axles.
N3 Toll Fees
Johannesburg to Durban
You will drive through five carousel plazas: De Hoek (R67), Wilge (R94), Tigela (R100), Mooi (R70), and Marianhill (R16.60).
If you’re travelling on the N3 for work or heading home on a one-way trip, expect to pay:
- R347.50 for Class 1 vehicles
- R632 for Class 2 vehicles
- R912 for Class 3 vehicles
- R1,274 for Class 4 and heavier vehicles (five axles or more)
N1 Toll Fees
Johannesburg to Cape Town
From Joburg to Cape Town on the N1 can see all kinds of motorists. If you’re on a one-way journey, you’ll need to get through four plazas: Huguenot (54.50), Vaal (91.50), Grasmere (R27.50), and Verkeerdevlei (R78.50).
- R252 for Class 1 vehicles
- R562 for Class 2 vehicles
- R775 for Class 3 vehicles
- R1,115 for Class 4 vehicles
Johannesburg to Polokwane
If you’re planning a one-way trip from Joburg to Polokwane or vice versa, budget for R232.50 for Class 1 Vehicles. This includes going through four plazas:
- Pumulani (R16.50)
- Carousel (R75)
- Kranskop (R61.50)
- Nyk (R79.50)
If you’re on your way from Joburg to Beit Bridge, you’ll need to budget for R357.50 (one-way).
Check here for more major route toll fees.
Toll Gate Fees Calculator
If you’re someone who frequently travels across the country and needs a solid budgeting tool for your commutes, then planning trips becomes a lot easier when you have a toll gate fees calculator.
For the most accurate and up-to-date information on calculating toll fees, you can use a couple of sites:
Conclusion: Budget Wisely and Safe Travels
There are a ton of hidden costs that most drivers aren’t aware of, but with this guide, you should be able to plan better, especially if you’re someone who travels long-distances. By following the route you’ve pre-planned, calculating tolls ahead of time, and factoring in fuel, accommodation, and rest stops, you’ll be able to reach your destination without racking up costs. Here are smart ways South Africans can save money.
In addition to sticking to your budget, responsible car ownership is key here. This includes, but is not limited to, following your regular car servicing schedule, owning an appropriate Car Insurance Cover, and ensuring you’ve ticked all the boxes on our easy-to-follow maintenance checklist.
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