Things To Do
in Pietermaritzburg
Pietermaritzburg sits inland in KwaZulu-Natal, blending Victorian-era architecture with green parks and riverfront strolls. The city is a gateway to the Midlands Meander and the Drakensberg foothills, offering a thoughtful mix of history, culture, and outdoor charm. Visitors can explore museums, markets, and leafy boulevards that reflect its colonial heritage and modern KZN sensibilities.
It is known for warm hospitality and easy access to nature, making it a relaxed base for South Africa's inland experiences.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day with a visit to the majestic City Hall, an architectural marvel showcasing stunning Victorian design. Wander through the lush gardens surrounding the hall, where you can enjoy the vibrant flora native to the region. Stop by the KwaZulu-Natal Museum, where you can delve into the natural history and cultural heritage of the area.
After lunch at a local café, head to the iconic Voortrekker Museum to learn about the Great Trek and its significance in South African history. Spend some time at the nearby African Bird of Prey Sanctuary, where you can observe and interact with various raptor species. As the afternoon winds down, stroll along Church Street, admiring the historical buildings and vibrant market stalls.
In the evening, indulge in a traditional South African dinner at a local restaurant, sampling boerewors and biltong. Enjoy live music or cultural performances that often take place in the city, immersing yourself in the local atmosphere. Conclude your day with a leisurely walk through the beautifully lit streets, reflecting on the history and culture you've experienced.
Start your day with a scenic drive to the picturesque Natal Midlands, surrounded by rolling hills and lush landscapes. Engage in a guided nature walk through the local trails, where you can spot various bird species and native flora. Don't forget to bring your camera, as the morning light offers perfect conditions for capturing the beauty of the area.
After your walk, enjoy a hearty lunch at one of the charming farm stalls, where you can taste homemade goodies and fresh produce. Visit the nearby Nelson Mandela Capture Site, a powerful memorial dedicated to the legacy of the former president, and learn about his journey towards freedom. Spend some time exploring the quaint shops in the area, where you can find unique local crafts and souvenirs.
As the sun sets, find a cozy spot at a local brewery or pub to unwind with a refreshing craft beer. Enjoy the tranquil atmosphere of the Midlands as you share stories with fellow travelers or locals. Dine at a nearby restaurant known for its farm-to-table approach, savoring dishes made with seasonal and locally sourced ingredients.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| 🥗Meal for 2 at mid-range restaurant | $20-40 |
| 🛏️1 night at a mid-range hotel | $40-100 |
| ☕Coffee in a café | $1-4 |
| 🚕Taxi ride within the city | $3-8 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage and architecture
- Gateway to the Midlands Meander and Drakensberg foothills
- Affordability and value for money
- Friendly, welcoming locals
- Limited nightlife compared to bigger cities
- Some safety concerns in poorly lit areas at night
- Traffic congestion during peak hours in the city center
- Distances to major attractions require a car
- "Sawubona" - Hello
- "Unjani?" - How are you?
- "Ngiyabonga" - Thank you
- "Ngicela amanzi" - Please, water
- "Ngicela ikhofi" - I would like coffee
- "Ngicela usizo" - I need help
Places to Visit in Pietermaritzburg
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic 19th-century architecture and leafy streets, ideal for architectural photography, especially at dawn.
Exhibits and surrounding gardens provide interesting subject matter and a sense of history.
Elegant stone façade and courtyard spaces perfect for portraits and detail shots.
Riverside scenes and bridges offer tranquil natural light and expansive skies.
Food in Pietermaritzburg
Pietermaritzburg Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A hollowed-out loaf filled with curried meat or beans; widely available in Indian-influenced eateries around the city.
Must-Try!
A spicy vegetable relish served with maize pap; common at local eateries and street stalls.
Traditional slow-cooked stew prepared in a cast-iron pot, served with pap or rice.
Skewered marinated meat grilled over coals, reflecting Cape Malay influences.
Grilled sausages and other braai favorites commonly found at markets and casual eateries.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A local market offering fresh produce, crafts, and street food on weekends.
Sidewalk vendors serving bunny chow, samosas, corn on the cob, and regional snacks.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a friendly hello and a handshake; show respect to elders and officials; use polite language in Zulu or Afrikaans when possible.
Smart-casual is typical in urban areas; dress modestly in religious sites and avoid loud behavior in residential neighborhoods.
Safety
Tipping in Pietermaritzburg
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, a tip of 10-15% is customary if service is not included; in cafés and casual spots, rounding up is common.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
November to February brings warm days with occasional afternoon thunderstorms; stay hydrated and apply sunscreen.
March to May offers mild days and cooler evenings; great for outdoor walks and photography.
June to August can be cool, especially early mornings; layers and a light jacket are handy.
September to November warms up with blooming gardens and lively markets.
Pietermaritzburg at Night
Hiking in Pietermaritzburg
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Accessible day hikes and viewpoints within 1–2 hours’ drive to the north.
Forest trails, waterfalls, and scenic viewpoints near the Midlands region.
Gentle trails and lookout spots close to the city for easy hikes and photo opportunities.
Airports
How to reach Pietermaritzburg by plane.
Primary international gateway for the region, located near Durban; typically a 90–120 minute drive from Pietermaritzburg depending on traffic.
Small regional airfield used for general aviation and charter flights; limited or no scheduled commercial service.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority demographic with a dynamic urban culture and languages including Zulu and English.
A significant community with strong influence in food, business, and shops.
Legacy communities maintaining heritage sites and local commerce.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular spectator sport with local clubs and events; part of South Africa's sporting culture.
Seasonal sport with local teams and matches; commonly played in parks and schools.
Community races and cycling events, including local fun runs and tours.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Pietermaritzburg.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Look for dishes with bean curries, chakalaka, and pap; many places can adapt meat dishes to vegetarian options; ask for plant-based proteins.
Some places offer halal options; ask staff about meat sourcing and preparation; choose curries and veggie dishes when in doubt.
Many meals are naturally gluten-free when served with pap or rice; request no bread or sauces that contain gluten.