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Stays in Pietermaritzburg
Pietermaritzburg, the capital of KwaZulu-Natal, lies in the Msunduzi River valley about 80 kilometres inland from Durban. Founded in the 1830s by Voortrekkers, it retains a strong colonial-era character, with red-brick buildings, wide streets and historic churches. The city is the seat of the…
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About Pietermaritzburg
The city centre clusters around Church Street and the Msunduzi River, while suburbs spread into the surrounding hills. Pietermaritzburg is a gateway to the Midlands Meander, a rural arts and crafts route, and to game reserves and mountain areas. Its climate is mild, with summer rainfall. The mix of Zulu, Indian, coloured and white heritage is reflected in its markets, temples, mosques and churches.
Where to stay in Pietermaritzburg
Pietermaritzburg Central. The central business district puts you within walking distance of the KwaZulu-Natal Legislature, the Voortrekker Museum and the railway station where Gandhi was ejected. Many of the city's older hotels and guesthouses are here.
Hilton. Just northwest of the centre, Hilton is a leafy, upmarket suburb with several guesthouses and the ANEW Hotel Hilton Pietermaritzburg. It offers quick access to the N3 highway and the Midlands.
Scottsville. Home to the University of KwaZulu-Natal's Pietermaritzburg campus, Scottsville has a student-friendly vibe with cafés and budget lodgings. It is close to the Golden Horse Casino and the rugby stadium.
Hayfields. A northern suburb with a suburban feel, Hayfields is convenient for the N3 and has a few guesthouses. It is a quieter base for exploring the city and beyond.
Getting there and around
Pietermaritzburg is on the N3 highway between Durban and Johannesburg, about an hour's drive from Durban. The city has a railway station with connections to Durban and Johannesburg, and a small airport, Pietermaritzburg Airport, with limited scheduled flights. Most visitors arrive by car or long-distance bus. Within the city, taxis and buses serve main routes, but having your own vehicle is useful for reaching outlying suburbs and the Midlands.
When to go
The city has a mild climate year-round. Summer (October to March) brings afternoon thunderstorms and warm temperatures, while winter (June to August) is dry and cooler. The Comrades Marathon, a major event, takes place in June (or sometimes May) and finishes in Pietermaritzburg. Spring (September to November) is pleasant for exploring the botanical garden and Midlands.
Questions, answered
What is Pietermaritzburg known for?
It is the capital of KwaZulu-Natal and is known for its colonial architecture, the Comrades Marathon finish, and its connection to Mahatma Gandhi, who was arrested at the railway station in 1893.
How do I get to Pietermaritzburg from Durban?
The easiest way is by car via the N3 highway, which takes about an hour. There are also regular trains and long-distance buses between Durban and Pietermaritzburg.
What are the main attractions in Pietermaritzburg?
Key sights include the KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Legislature, the Voortrekker Museum, the Mahatma Gandhi statue, the Pietermaritzburg Botanical Garden, and the Msunduzi Museum.
Is Pietermaritzburg a good base for the Midlands Meander?
Yes, the city is a common starting point for the Midlands Meander, a self-drive arts and crafts route that winds through the KwaZulu-Natal Midlands.
What is the Comrades Marathon?
It is an ultramarathon run annually between Durban and Pietermaritzburg, alternating direction each year. The race finishes in Pietermaritzburg in even years.