The Huguenot Tunnel, stretching 3.9km through the Du Toitskloof mountains, remains the longest road tunnel in Africa and is set for a major R4 billion upgrade. Operated by the South African National Roads Agency (SANRAL), the tunnel has been a critical transport route along the N1 since the South Bore opened in March 1988.
Currently, traffic flows in both directions through the South Bore, while the North Bore remains closed but is in the commissioning phase. SANRAL’s long-term plan is to convert the system into two separate tunnels, each carrying one-way traffic with two lanes, significantly improving safety and traffic efficiency. The need for upgrades is driven by aging electrical and mechanical systems that are nearing the end of their lifespan.
The project, valued at approximately R4 billion, is still progressing through procurement processes, with tenders for the North Bore confirmed in 2024. Once fully implemented, the upgraded tunnel system will include modern safety features such as improved ventilation, environmental sensors, wind barriers, and enhanced emergency infrastructure, aligning the tunnel with international standards.
With over 100 million vehicles having passed through the tunnel since its opening and an average of around 13,000 vehicles using it daily, the upgrade is expected to further improve travel times and efficiency on one of South Africa’s busiest routes. The project is anticipated to take between three and five years to complete, with the North Bore expected to be finalised first, followed by refurbishment of the South Bore.