Pietermaritzburg Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Pietermaritzburg, KwaZulu-Natal with our comprehensive travel guide. Discover the best things to do, see, eat, and more in this charming city.


Introduction to Pietermaritzburg

Pietermaritzburg, located in the heart of the KwaZulu-Natal Midlands, is a charming and historic city that is renowned for its natural beauty, cultural heritage, and vibrant arts scene. Named after two Boer leaders, Pieter Retief and Gerrit Maritz, the city is a melting pot of cultures and traditions that date back to its early Zulu, Indian, and European settlements.

List of Places to Visit in Pietermaritzburg

Whether you are interested in history, nature, or arts and culture, Pietermaritzburg has something to offer for everyone. Here is a list of some of the must-visit places in the city:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • The Natal Museum: Explore the rich history and cultural heritage of KwaZulu Natal at this fascinating museum, which features exhibits on archaeology, geology, natural history, and ethnology.
  • The Voortrekker Museum: Discover the history of the Voortrekkers, who were early Dutch settlers in South Africa, at this fascinating museum that showcases their daily life, struggles and triumphs.
  • The KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Museum: Learn about the region’s natural history, science, and technology at this modern museum that offers interactive exhibits, galleries, and displays.
  • The Tatham Art Gallery: The Tatham Art Gallery boasts an unrivaled collection of South African art, including works by prominent artists such as Gerard Bhengu, Edward Roworth, and Penny Siopis.

Natural Attractions of Pietermaritzburg: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • The KwaZulu-Natal National Botanical Garden: With over 80 hectares of lush gardens, stunning scenery, and rare plant species, the Botanical Garden is a perfect spot for nature lovers and garden enthusiasts alike.
  • The Umgeni River Bird Park: Get up close and personal with a wide variety of bird species from around the world at this incredible bird sanctuary, which features stunning aviaries and bird shows.
  • Phezulu Safari Park: A must-visit for animal lovers, Phezulu Safari Park offers guided tours, game drives, and cultural experiences that allow visitors to witness the region’s rich wildlife and Zulu culture in one trip.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Pietermaritzburg

Pietermaritzburg is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts and hikers. Here are some of the best and most popular hiking and biking routes in the city:

  • The Comrades Marathon Route: A famous 90-kilometer route that runs between Durban and Pietermaritzburg, the Comrades Marathon Route is a challenging and scenic trail that offers breathtaking views of the surrounding hills and valleys.
  • The Karkloof nature reserve: Offering hiking and biking trails over 100 scenic hectares of land, Karkloof nature reserve is known for its beautiful waterfalls and lush forests.
  • The Umgeni Valley Nature Reserve: With over 1000 hectares of pristine wildlife and scenic surroundings, Umgeni Valley Nature Reserve offers multiple hiking and biking trails for adventure and nature enthusiasts.

Best Things to Do in Pietermaritzburg: Activities and Tours

Pietermaritzburg offers numerous activities and tours for visitors of all ages and interests. Here are some of the best things to do in the city:

  • Take a heritage tour of the city, which gives visitors a glimpse of the region’s unique cultural heritage and historical landmarks.
  • Experience a hot-air balloon ride over the Midlands, where you can witness breathtaking views of the surrounding hills, valleys, and farmland.
  • Go horseback riding, mountain-biking or zip-lining through the scenic countryside of the KwaZulu-Natal Midlands.

Week-Long Itinerary for Pietermaritzburg

Pietermaritzburg has a lot of interesting activities and attractions to offer visitors. Here’s a sample itinerary for a week-long trip to the city:

Day Activities and Places to See
Day 1 Visit the Natal Museum, and the Voortrekker Museum
Day 2 Hike or bike along the Comrades Marathon Route, and visit the Umgeni River Bird Park
Day 3 Explore the KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Museum, take a hot-air balloon ride over the Midlands
Day 4 Visit the Tatham Art Gallery, and take a horseback riding tour
Day 5 Head to the Karkloof Nature Reserve for some hiking or biking, and enjoy a picnic lunch
Day 6 Witness the animal wonders of Phezulu Safari Park, and take cultural tours of Zulu villages
Day 7 Visit the KwaZulu-Natal National Botanical Garden and enjoy a relaxing boat cruise on the lake

Food and Drink Scene of Pietermaritzburg

Pietermaritzburg has a thriving food and drink scene that offers something for everyone, from traditional Zulu cuisine to modern fusion dishes. Here are some of the must-try dishes and local beverages in the city:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Bunny Chow: A local favorite, this dish consists of a hollowed-out loaf of bread filled with curry, usually made with chicken, lamb, or beef.
  • Braai: South Africa’s version of barbecue, Braai is a must-try for meat lovers, and usually includes boerewors, lamb chops, and steak, among others.
  • Bobotie: A curried meat dish that originated in the Cape Malay community, Bobotie is a tasty and unique dish, usually served with yellow rice, chutney, and sambal.

Local Beverages

  • Beer: South Africa is famous for its world-class beers, such as Castle Lager, Hansa Pilsner, and Black Label, among others.
  • Rooibos Tea: Hailing from the Western Cape Province, Rooibos tea is a popular herbal tea that is caffeine-free and has a unique and refreshing taste.
  • South African Wines: Pietermaritzburg provides the perfect gateway to indulge in South Africa’s world-famous wines, which range in taste from bold and fruity to light and crisp.

Where to Stay in Pietermaritzburg: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Pietermaritzburg offers a wide range of accommodation options for visitors, from luxury hotels to budget-friendly hostels and guesthouses. Here are some top picks:

  • Ilawu Hotel: A luxury hotel located close to the city center, with a lovely outdoor pool and restaurant, perfect for business or leisure travelers.
  • Safari Lodge Hotel: A budget-friendly hotel offering comfortable and clean rooms, with a lovely outdoor terrace and swimming pool.
  • Signals Guest House: A charming and well-appointed guest house located in the leafy suburb of Hilton, with spacious rooms and beautiful gardens.

What to Buy in Pietermaritzburg: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Pietermaritzburg is known for its local handicrafts, curios, and artwork. Here are some of the best things to buy when you’re in the city:

  • Beaded jewelry and crafts made by local Zulu artists
  • Handmade baskets and woven fabrics, created by skilled artisans in the Midlands region
  • Traditional South African artwork, such as paintings, sculptures, and pottery, which are available in many galleries and markets across the city.

Local Culture and Customs of Pietermaritzburg

Pietermaritzburg is a culturally diverse city, with Zulu, Indian, and European influences that are reflected in its food, music, and arts scene. Visitors are encouraged to be respectful of local customs and traditions, such as dress codes, religious practices, and cultural etiquette.

Best Time to Visit Pietermaritzburg

The best time to visit Pietermaritzburg is during the spring and summer months (September-March), when temperatures are warm, and the city is lush and green. However, autumn and winter (April-August) are also great times to visit, when the weather is cooler, and crowds are less likely.

Do’s and Don’ts of Pietermaritzburg

Do:

  • Respect the natural surroundings and wildlife, and be mindful of conservation and sustainability efforts.
  • Try the local cuisine and beverages in as many restaurants and cafes as possible.
  • Learn about the local culture and traditions and show respect for local customs and etiquette.

Don’t:

  • Leave valuables unattended, and be vigilant when traveling alone, especially at night.
  • Disrupt the environmental balance by littering or polluting the natural surroundings.
  • Disrespect the local culture or traditions in any way.

Safety and Health

Safety in Pietermaritzburg

Pietermaritzburg is generally considered safe for tourists, however, visitors are advised to take precautions, such as avoiding deserted areas, carrying a cellphone, and using reputable taxi services.

Health in Pietermaritzburg

Visitors are advised to take precautions, such as drinking bottled water, using sunscreen, and getting appropriate vaccinations, such as for tetanus, hepatitis, and yellow fever.

Getting to Pietermaritzburg: Transportation Options and Logistics

Pietermaritzburg is easily accessible by road, air, and train. Here are some transportation options for visitors:

Airports Near Pietermaritzburg

The closest airport to Pietermaritzburg is King Shaka International Airport, which is located in Durban, about 90 km away.

Bus Stations Near Pietermaritzburg

Pietermaritzburg has a modern bus station that provides services to many cities and towns in the region.

Other Options

Visitors can also take a train to Pietermaritzburg, with daily services available from Durban and Johannesburg.

How to Get Around Pietermaritzburg

Pietermaritzburg is a compact and easy-to-navigate city, and visitors can get around by taxi, car rental, bike rental or on foot. Taxis are widely available, and visitors can negotiate prices with drivers in advance.

Where to Go Next from Pietermaritzburg: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Pietermaritzburg is a great base from which to explore many nearby attractions, such as:

  • The Drakensberg Mountains: Located just a few hours’ drive away, the Drakensberg Mountains offer a spectacular and rugged landscape that is perfect for hiking and outdoor adventure.
  • Durban: A seaside city located just an hour’s drive away, Durban is known for its beaches, nightlife, and Indian cuisine.
  • The Battlefields Route: A historic route that traces the region’s turbulent past, where visitors can witness the sites of major battles between the Zulu, Boer, and British armies.

Conclusion

Pietermaritzburg is a wonderful destination that has something to offer for every traveler, from nature lovers and adrenaline junkies to art aficionados and history buffs. With its natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and vibrant culinary scene, Pietermaritzburg is a must-visit destination that will leave visitors with lasting memories and experiences.

The KwaZulu-Natal Legislature building The KwaZulu-Natal Legislature building Pietermaritzburg City Hall. Pietermaritzburg City Hall.