Pietermaritzburg
Clock tower of the university's Collin Webb Hall
The KwaZulu-Natal Legislature building
An overview of the city bowl as seen from the hills of Blackridge (suburb)
Upland savanna near Pietermaritzburg
Pietermaritzburg

Pietermaritzburg

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South Africa
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Pietermaritzburg Travel Essentials

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Ideal duration: 1-2 days

Best Time: April - September Read More

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"Garden City and Historic Heritage"

Pietermaritzburg Tourism

Pietermaritzburg, a vibrant city in South Africa's KwaZulu-Natal province, offers a mix of cultural, historical, and natural attractions. Spanning around 168.5 square kilometres, the city boasts residential, commercial, and industrial areas, attracting both locals and visitors. Known as the "City of Flowers" as it houses a National Botanical Garden, its rich history, stunning architecture, and scenic landscapes make it an enchanting destination.

Notable landmarks include the captivating City Hall, showcasing the city's colonial past, and the Voortrekker Museum, offering insights into pioneer heritage. The iconic Comrades Marathon attracts athletes from around the world. Visitors can explore the tranquil Tatham Art Gallery's impressive art collection or find serenity at the Sri Sri Radha Radhanath Temple.

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Things to do in Pietermaritzburg

1. City Hall

The City Hall in Pietermaritzburg is an impressive architectural structure with colonial influences. Guided tours offer visitors a chance to appreciate its stunning facade and learn about its historic (Read More)al significance.

2. Voortrekker Museum

The Voortrekker Museum provides an engaging glimpse into the lives of the pioneers who settled in the area. Its vast collection of artefacts and exhibits serves as a preservation of pioneer heritage.

3. Comrades Marathon

The Comrades Marathon is a renowned ultra-marathon held annually since 1921, attracting runners from all over the world. Sports enthusiasts can participate in or witness the challenging event.

4. Tatham Art Gallery

Art enthusiasts can indulge in the diverse collection of traditional and contemporary artworks at the Tatham Art Gallery, celebrating South Africa's rich artistic heritage.

5. Sri Sri Radha Radhanath Temple

The Sri Sri Radha Radhanath Temple offers a serene environment, providing a spiritual retreat for those seeking inner peace and tranquillity.

6. KwaZulu-Natal National Botanical Garden

Nature lovers can explore the picturesque beauty of the KwaZulu-Natal National Botanical Garden, showcasing various indigenous plants and birdlife.

7. Butterflies for Africa

A must-visit attraction, Butterflies for Africa enchants visitors with its lush tropical gardens and vibrant butterfly collection. Located on Willowton Road, it offers a unique experience for nature e (Read More)nthusiasts.

8. Queen Elizabeth Park Nature Reserve

The Queen Elizabeth Park Nature Reserve offers an enjoyable nature escape with its hiking trails and birdwatching opportunities.

9. Macrorie House Museum

History enthusiasts can immerse themselves in the past at the Macrorie House Museum, where well-preserved Victorian-style houses and period artefacts are on display.

10. Liberty Midlands Mall

The Liberty Midlands Mall is a shopper's delight, featuring numerous retail outlets, restaurants, and entertainment choices.

11. Gandhi Statue

The Gandhi Statue in Pietermaritzburg is a symbol of historical significance, honouring Mahatma Gandhi's time in the city. Visitors can observe this landmark, located in the city centre, as a tribute (Read More)to his influential presence.

12. Scottsville Racecourse

Known for its thrilling horse racing events, Scottsville Racecourse offers an exciting day out for racing enthusiasts. Situated in Scottsville, it welcomes visitors for an adrenaline-pumping experienc (Read More)e.

13. Maritzburg Golf Club

Golf aficionados can enjoy a challenging game at the Maritzburg Golf Club, boasting a picturesque setting. Located in the city, it offers a well-maintained course for golfers of all levels.

14. Habibia Soofie Masjid

The Habibia Soofie Masjid, located in the heart of Pietermaritzburg, stands as an impressive religious landmark. Visitors can experience its serene ambience and appreciate its Islamic architecture.

15. The Valley of a Thousand Hills

Offering breathtaking views and a serene escape, The Valley of a Thousand Hills is a picturesque destination near Pietermaritzburg. Nature lovers can explore its scenic beauty and enjoy various outdoo (Read More)r activities.

16. Bisley Valley Nature Reserve

Situated on Otto's Bluff Road, the Bisley Valley Nature Reserve provides a natural oasis for wildlife enthusiasts and hikers.

Must Know Before You Travel to Pietermaritzburg

  • Local Transportation: Private transport, preferably car rental, is advised. Minibus taxis are cheap but uncomfortable and sometimes unsafe.
  • Comrades Marathon: The annual Comrades Marathon held in May, covers approximately 89 km in either the "up" or "down" run between Durban and Pietermaritzburg. Travellers who wish to participate can plan their trip around it.
  • ATM Safety: Exercise caution during ATM transactions and avoid accepting help from strangers to ensure security.
  • Scam Awareness: Be cautious of creative scams like Guessing Game, Bird Poop, Picture Scam, and "Friendly" Bar Friends. Do your research and stay alert.
  • Drinking Water: Tap water is considered safe to drink.
  • Language: Languages spoken in Pietermaritzburg include English, Zulu, Afrikaans, and isiXhosa.
  • Vaccinations: Consult a healthcare professional for recommended vaccinations before travelling to Pietermaritzburg.

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More on Pietermaritzburg Travel

Shopping in Pietermaritzburg

In Pietermaritzburg, you can find unique handicrafts and traditional artworks while shopping. The Liberty Midlands Mall, Dainfern Square, and Cambanos & Son are popular spots for retail therapy.

Nightlife in Pietermaritzburg

Pietermaritzburg's nightlife offers a mix of entertainment options for locals and visitors alike. Pubs like Alexander's, McRoy's Public House, and Red Door cater to those seeking a vibrant atmosphere and live music. The Trademans Lounge is a popular spot for karaoke and laid-back evenings. To experience local culture, visitors can head to the Longhorn Saloon and Grill, offering a blend of South African cuisine and live performances. For a relaxed evening, the Karoo Cattle and Land pub offers a cosy ambience and a selection of craft beers.

History of Pietermaritzburg

Pietermaritzburg’s name originates from two leaders, Piet Retief and Gert Maritz, who played significant roles in the Great Trek, an important historical event in South Africa. Founded in 1838 as the capital of the Natal Colony, Pietermaritzburg served as the administrative centre during the British colonial era. Over the years, the city witnessed various cultural influences, including Zulu, Indian, and British, shaping its identity into a vibrant melting pot of traditions. Pietermaritzburg played a pivotal role in the struggle against apartheid, with notable events like the arrest of Mahatma Gandhi at the city's train station in 1893.

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How to Reach Pietermaritzburg

How to Reach Overview

Pietermaritzburg is conveniently accessible through air, road, and train services. For international travellers, the King Shaka International Airport in Durban and O.R. Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg serve as the nearest airports to Pietermaritzburg, whereas for domestic travellers Pietermaritzburg Airport is convenient. The city can also be reached by road through the N3 highway and by train through KwaZulu-Natal from multiple cities nearby.

How to reach Pietermaritzburg by flight

The main airport serving Pietermaritzburg is Pietermaritzburg Airport. AirLink operates regular flights primarily from Johannesburg, with round-trip fares ranging from $80 to $2200 per person. The flight duration is approximately one hour.

How to reach Pietermaritzburg by road

Road travel to Pietermaritzburg offers a scenic journey, well-connected to Durban and Johannesburg via the N3 highways. The distance between Johannesburg and Pietermaritzburg is approximately 490 kilometres, taking about 5 hours to cover by car. From Durban, Pietermaritzburg is only 78 kilometres away and can be reached in just one hour. The R56 links Pietermaritzburg to Cape Town, Port Elizabeth, and East London in the south-west. The city is easily reachable by car or taxi.

How to reach Pietermaritzburg by train

Pietermaritzburg enjoys good train connectivity with neighbouring cities through Spoornet-operated inter-city trains. The Pietermaritzburg Station is situated on Railway and Pine Streets, in the South Western corner of the city centre. Train services are available from Durban to Pietermaritzburg, through the landscapes of KwaZulu-Natal and take approximately 2 hours.

How to reach Pietermaritzburg by bus

Pietermaritzburg is well-served by multiple bus service providers with daily routes to and from the city. The central bus station is located at Burger Street and, Greyhound is the preferred choice for many passengers.

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