Amapondo Backpackers is easy to get to by bus. Take one of the buses listed below to Umtata (Mthatha) Ultra Shell Station or even better Mthatha Station, and from there, we’re happy to pick you up with our shuttle service! IMPORTANT: Book your transfer to Port St Johns at least 3 days in advance, email natalie@amapondo.co.za for quote.

Several bus operators go to Umtata every day from both the eastern and western direction: 

https://www.intercape.co.za/bus-stops/

https://www.busbud.com/

Port St. Johns is situated between East London (4 hours) and Durban (5 hours).

Directions from East London:

• Take the N2 north to Mthatha, approximately 220km. Follow the route markers to the R61 to Libode and Port St Johns through Mthatha. (in the city centre there’s a right turn that is often missed). Drive along the R61 for 93km with the road leading directly into Port St Johns.

Directions from Durban:

• Take the N2 south to Mthatha. Follow the route markers to the R61 to Libode and Port St Johns through Mthatha. Drive along the R61 for 93km with the road leading directly into Port St Johns.
• For your own and others safety try not to drive down here at night, since there can be animals on the road.
• The GPS coordinates for Amapondo Backpackers are:
• 31° 38′ 39.90′ S | 29° 31′ 16.28” E.

You can fly to Mthatha from Johannesburg, and from there on carry on with either a taxi or a shuttle to Port St. Johns.

Fly to East London, rent a car and drive the (N2) scenic Great Kei River Pass towards Mathatha and then take the R61 to Port St Johns.

You can also try a more alternative way by charting a flight directly to Port St. Johns from East London. If you choose to do it this way you will be greeted by a stunning sight when you land at the so-called Gates of Port St. Johns, a couple of twin mountains, Thesiger and Sullivan, which lie on either side of the mouth of the Umzimvubu River.

For more information, please go to East London Air Services