Users have shared positive experiences, highlighting the friendly and accommodating staff as well as comfortable seating. However, some reviews mention issues with departure times and non-functional charging ports. Additionally, there were concerns about cleanliness regarding curtains and possible insect presence on board. Overall, travelers appreciated the service but suggested improvements in specific areas for an even better experience next time.
It was very very bad at an extent that it did not match the standard of transporting people for long distance. It was an old bus that looked like those that transported school kids back then, e.g no Aircon,no charging sockets, old Bus seats that are not pasted to the seat frame (they move). We were not told how long we had to go to restrooms/supermarkets.
1 out of 5 stars
Mlamli M.
I was early and the bus left me because there was no order in getting people to the bus.
1 out of 5 stars
Cxolile C.
It was the worst journey in the world the bus didn't arrive on time only 4hours later we got a bus that was not even going where I was going we had to be exchanged from one bus to the next a journey that was meant to be 9 hours 30min ended up being 14 hours I am actually planning to take legal action
Intercape Budgetliner receives praise for its friendly and helpful drivers, professional staff approach, and overall comfortable travel experience. Many users enjoyed their trips despite some challenges such as non-functional charging points, luggage prices being high, a toilet odor issue on one bus type without toilets available on others. Additionally, there were isolated incidents of delays in Johannesburg due to overloading or breakdowns that affected communication with passengers.
According to 17 reviews, Intercity Xpress received a 1.8-star rating for this journey. Travellers were especially satisfied with the seats and the temperature, but some complained about the Wi-Fi. Intercity Xpress ticket prices on this trip start at R 414
Very disappointing. The staff was disorganised and rude. The bus was late and we had to pack our own luggage without the staff assistance. There was nothing that I enjoyed.
1 out of 5 stars
Snawo M.
Bad bad bab very bad, we got stuck in pietermaritzburg due to bus failure to start at 2h30 am until 10h30. With no communication or help f3om the head office
1 out of 5 stars
Ntuthuko M.
There was a window that didn’t close the whole journey, the drivers were switching on the heater too high, or either too cold a complete imbalance and not ticking to departure time
Based on 3011 reviews, the company was rated 2.1 stars on Busbud. Travellers were especially satisfied with the ticket access and the power outlets but often complained with the Wi-Fi. APM WC ticket prices on this trip start at R 340
Based on 64 reviews, the company was rated 3.8 stars on Busbud. Travellers were especially satisfied with the ticket access and the departure location but often complained with the Wi-Fi. Luvalo Brothers Transport ticket prices on this trip start at R 390
Based on 119 reviews, the company was rated 2.6 stars on Busbud. Travellers were especially satisfied with the ticket access and the power outlets but often complained with the Wi-Fi. Big Tree ticket prices on this trip start at R 408
Based on 2072 reviews, the company was rated 3.6 stars on Busbud. Travellers were especially satisfied with the ticket access and the seats but often complained with the Wi-Fi. Citiliner ticket prices on this trip start at R 416
Based on 4061 reviews, the company was rated 1.7 stars on Busbud. Travellers were especially satisfied with the ticket access and the seats but often complained with the Wi-Fi. Delta Coaches ticket prices on this trip start at R 365
Poor time management, no air conditioning, toilet was not working at all, charging pods were not working.
1 out of 5 stars
Mzukisi M.
No happy the bus took an hour to arrive at park station the is absolutely no order from putting the bags on the bus to going in-the bus people pushing each other not happy.
2 out of 5 stars
Babalwa M.
I didn’t even travel with the bus departed at 7pm earlier ,instead of correct time of 8 pm
According to the users, Greyhound drivers are noted for their friendliness and discipline. However, there have been reports of issues with bathroom cleanliness and non-functional charging points on some buses. Additionally, maintaining punctuality is highlighted as an area needing attention by multiple reviewers.
Citiliner Plus Johannesburg Kokstad recent customer reviews
The drivers were very friendly and disciplined. But I always have the issue with the bathroom 🚻 because people do number 2 and it becomes a problem for people sitting at back. If it can be announced before the departure. I also saw the cockroaches 🪳 in the bus, some seats charging points were not working.
5 out of 5 stars
Babalwa Faith M.
Greyhound staff and management could y'all please prioritize time! Time is money and time is very important.
3 out of 5 stars
Xola P.
The attitude of the driver was worse than anything I've seen before. He passed Kokstad and went straight to Matatiele without any word. Despite people requesting to get off, he continued without any response. Upon coming back, he passes Kokstad again and went to Engine garage to fill up the bus. When we requested to get off he refused and said he will only stop at Mt Curry Inn. This is two hours later, when we passed Kokstad the 1st time it was 03h00 and we only got off at 05h10. Please assist with corrective measures
Based on 3331 reviews, the company was rated 3.5 stars on Busbud. Travellers were especially satisfied with the ticket access and the staff but often complained with the Wi-Fi. Big Sky ticket prices on this trip start at R 560
Frequently asked questions about travelling from Johannesburg to Kokstad by bus
Please note that timetables, routes, or operator details shown here may be updated or differ at the time of your trip.
How much is the bus ticket from Johannesburg to Kokstad?
The cheapest bus tickets from Johannesburg to Kokstad start at R 340. The average price for this route is around R 585. Busbud recommends booking your tickets in advance for the best chance of getting the lowest possible price.
How long is the bus journey from Johannesburg to Kokstad?
The average bus journey time from Johannesburg to Kokstad is 9h 50m, covering a distance of 504 km. The fastest bus gets you there in 8h 45m and is operated by Big Tree.
Which bus companies service the Johannesburg to Kokstad route?
What is the earliest and latest departure time for the bus from Johannesburg to Kokstad?
The earliest bus departs from Johannesburg to Kokstad at 05:40. And the latest bus departs at 21:30.
What are the CO₂ emissions for the bus trip from Johannesburg to Kokstad?
A bus trip from Johannesburg to Kokstad produces an estimated 13 kg of CO₂, making it a highly eco-friendly travel option and Busbud’s recommended way to travel.
What is the best bus company from Johannesburg to Kokstad?
According to Busbud customers, the highest-rated bus company on this route is Luvalo Brothers Transport, with an average rating of 3.8 out of 5 stars based on 64 reviews.
Which bus company has the best Wi-Fi from Johannesburg to Kokstad?
Based on reviews on Busbud, the bus company Luvalo Brothers Transport has the best Wi-Fi rating with a score of 2.1.
Which bus company offers the most punctual service from Johannesburg to Kokstad?
According to Busbud traveller reviews, the most punctual bus company on this route is Luvalo Brothers Transport, with a punctuality rating of 3.7 out of 5 stars.
Which bus company has the cleanest buses from Johannesburg to Kokstad?
According to Busbud traveller reviews, the bus company with the cleanest buses on this route is Big Sky, with a cleanliness rating of 4.2 out of 5 stars.
Find cheapest prices for buses
Price is for a one-way ticket for one passenger and based on past searches.
Best price found
04/01
R 350
05/01
R 430
Today
R 341
07/01
R 352
08/01
R 352
09/01
R 364
10/01
R 358
11/01
R 368
The cheapest trip from Johannesburg to Kokstad was searched and found on 06 Jan 2026 with a price of R 341
To save money and be sure you have the best seat, it's a good idea to buy your bus tickets from Johannesburg to Kokstad as early as possible.
You can expect to pay from R 341 to R 874 for a bus ticket from Johannesburg to Kokstad based on the last 2 days. You can expect to find the cheapest price for the trip at R 352, which is on 2026-01-07.
Usually Intercape, Big Tree, Big Sky will charge you higher prices for tickets closer to the departure date. To find the best prices, you should be flexible on your date of travel.