Ultimate Cheat Sheet for Pietermaritzburg Travelers: Your 2024 Guide to KZN’s Capital

Welcome to Pietermaritzburg, the charming capital of KwaZulu-Natal! Did you know that this vibrant city is nicknamed the "City of Choice"? Well, get ready to find out why! As a fellow traveler who's fallen head over heels for Pietermaritzburg, I'm thrilled to share this ultimate cheat sheet with you. From hidden gems to must-visit attractions, we'll cover everything you need to make your 2024 trip unforgettable. So, grab your curiosity and let's dive into the heart of South African culture and history!

Why Visit Pietermaritzburg

Ah, Pietermaritzburg! This charming city in South Africa's KwaZulu-Natal province is a hidden gem that deserves more attention. I fell in love with its blend of history, culture, and natural beauty during my first visit. The city's Victorian architecture, lush botanical gardens, and rich Zulu heritage make it a unique destination.

One of the main draws is the city's historical significance. As the capital of KwaZulu-Natal, Pietermaritzburg played a crucial role in South African history. It's where Mahatma Gandhi was famously thrown off a train, an event that sparked his journey towards non-violent resistance.

Nature lovers will find plenty to admire here too. The nearby Howick Falls and Karkloof Nature Reserve offer breathtaking landscapes and outdoor adventures. And let's not forget the vibrant arts scene and friendly locals that make every visit memorable.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Pietermaritzburg largely depends on what you're looking for in your trip. Here's a breakdown of what to expect throughout the year:

Spring (September to November)

• Mild temperatures
• Blooming jacaranda trees
• Ideal for outdoor activities

Summer (December to February)

• Warm to hot temperatures
• Occasional afternoon thunderstorms
• Perfect for swimming and water activities

Autumn (March to May)

• Cooler temperatures
• Beautiful fall colors
• Less crowded tourist season

Winter (June to August)

• Cool, dry weather
• Clear skies
• Great for hiking and wildlife viewing

Personally, I love visiting in spring when the jacaranda trees paint the city purple. It's a sight to behold!

How Many Days is Enough to Visit

In my experience, you'll need at least 3-4 days to truly appreciate Pietermaritzburg. This allows time to explore the city's historical sites, enjoy its natural beauty, and soak in the local culture. Here's a sample itinerary:

1. Day 1: City tour and historical sites
2. Day 2: Nature reserves and outdoor activities
3. Day 3: Museums and art galleries
4. Day 4: Day trip to nearby attractions

Of course, if you have more time, you can delve deeper into each aspect of the city or use it as a base to explore more of KwaZulu-Natal.

How Affordable Is It

Pietermaritzburg is generally an affordable destination, especially when compared to larger South African cities like Cape Town or Johannesburg. Here's a rough breakdown of daily costs:

These prices are in South African Rand (ZAR). As of my last visit, 1 USD was roughly equivalent to 15 ZAR, but exchange rates can fluctuate.

How to Get There

Getting to Pietermaritzburg is relatively easy, with several options available:

1. By Air: The nearest airport is King Shaka International Airport in Durban, about an hour's drive away.

2. By Car: Pietermaritzburg is well-connected by highways. It's about an hour from Durban and 4-5 hours from Johannesburg.

3. By Bus: Several bus companies operate routes to Pietermaritzburg from major South African cities.

4. By Train: The Shosholoza Meyl train service connects Pietermaritzburg to Johannesburg and Durban.

I usually prefer driving, as it allows for scenic stops along the way and provides flexibility once in the city.

Navigating

Getting around Pietermaritzburg is fairly straightforward. Here are your main options:

• Rental Car: This offers the most flexibility, especially if you plan to explore outside the city.
• Taxis: Readily available but can be pricey for longer trips.
• Uber: Available in the city and often cheaper than traditional taxis.
• Public Buses: Inexpensive but routes can be limited.
• Walking: The city center is walkable, but not recommended for longer distances.

Remember to always prioritize safety, especially when walking at night. I found renting a car to be the most convenient option, but if you're staying in the city center, walking and occasional taxis worked well too.

Where to Stay (For Each Budget)

Pietermaritzburg offers accommodation options for every budget. Here are some recommendations based on my experiences and research:

Budget

• Sleepy Hollow: Clean, basic rooms with a friendly atmosphere.
• Ridgeway Close: Self-catering units perfect for longer stays.

Mid-range

• Redlands Hotel: Comfortable rooms with a lovely garden setting.
• A Garden Suite: Charming B&B with personalized service.

Luxury

• Fordoun Hotel and Spa: High-end wellness retreat with stunning views.
• Ascot Bush Lodge: Upscale lodge offering a taste of African luxury.

I've stayed at Redlands Hotel and found it to be a great value for money, with its central location and beautiful grounds.

What to Do – Top 5 Things to Do by Day for Tourists

1. Visit the KwaZulu-Natal Museum: Dive into the region's rich history and culture. The dinosaur exhibits are particularly fascinating!

2. Explore the Botanical Gardens: These beautiful gardens are perfect for a picnic or a leisurely stroll. Don't miss the camellia gardens if you're visiting in winter.

3. Take a trip to the Howick Falls: Just a short drive from the city, these 95-meter falls are breathtaking. The viewing platform offers great photo opportunities.

4. Visit the Tatham Art Gallery: Housing an impressive collection of South African and European art, it's a must-visit for art enthusiasts.

5. Explore the Karkloof Nature Reserve: Great for hiking and bird watching. If you're feeling adventurous, try the canopy tours!

What to Do – Top 5 Things to Do by Night for Tourists

1. Enjoy a Sunset Game Drive: Many nearby game reserves offer evening drives. It's a magical experience to see nocturnal animals come to life.

2. Dine at Traffords Restaurant: This upscale eatery offers a fantastic fine dining experience with a focus on local ingredients.

3. Catch a Show at the Hexagon Theatre: If you're lucky, you might catch a play or music performance at this vibrant venue.

4. Visit Liberty Midlands Mall: For those who enjoy late-night shopping, this mall is open until 9 PM on weekends.

5. Stargaze at the UKZN Science and Technology Education Centre: They occasionally host night sky viewing events that are truly awe-inspiring.

What to Eat

Pietermaritzburg offers a diverse culinary scene, blending traditional South African cuisine with international influences. Here are some must-try dishes and where to find them:

1. Bunny Chow: A hollowed-out loaf of bread filled with curry. Try it at Naidoo's Curry House.

2. Boerewors: Traditional South African sausage. Best enjoyed at a local braai (barbecue).

3. Bobotie: A dish of spiced minced meat with an egg custard topping. Traffords Restaurant does an excellent version.

4. Malva Pudding: A sweet, spongy dessert. Enjoy it at Rosehurst Garden Restaurant.

5. Durban-style Curry: Spicier than other South African curries. Head to Indian Summer for an authentic taste.

Don't forget to try some local wines too. South African wines are world-renowned, and many restaurants offer excellent selections.

Where to Shop (For Each Budget)

Budget

• Victoria Road Market: Great for local produce and crafts.
• Church Street: Home to many affordable clothing and souvenir shops.

Mid-range

• Liberty Midlands Mall: Offers a wide range of local and international brands.
• Scottsville Mall: A smaller mall with a good selection of shops.

Luxury

• Pietermaritzburg Golf Club Pro Shop: For high-end golf equipment and apparel.
• Jewellery stores in the CBD: For those looking for fine jewellery and watches.

I always enjoy browsing the Victoria Road Market for unique, locally-made souvenirs to bring home.

Essential Sentences

Learning a few key phrases in the local languages can go a long way in Pietermaritzburg. Here are some essential sentences in Zulu and Afrikaans:

Zulu

• Hello: Sawubona
• Thank you: Ngiyabonga
• How are you?: Unjani?
• Goodbye: Hamba kahle

Afrikaans

• Hello: Hallo
• Thank you: Dankie
• How are you?: Hoe gaan dit?
• Goodbye: Totsiens

Remember, English is widely spoken, but locals always appreciate when visitors make an effort to use local languages.

Local Pro Tip

Here's a tip that many tourists miss: visit the Pietermaritzburg Farmers Market on Saturday mornings. It's held at the Royal Showgrounds and offers a fantastic selection of local produce, crafts, and food stalls. It's a great way to experience local life and pick up some unique souvenirs or ingredients.

Also, if you're visiting in May, try to catch the Comrades Marathon. Even if you're not running, the atmosphere in the city during this ultra-marathon is electric!

Is It Safe

Like many cities, Pietermaritzburg has its safe areas and areas where caution is advised. Generally, the city is safe for tourists, especially in popular areas during the day. However, it's always wise to take standard precautions:

• Be aware of your surroundings, especially at night.
• Keep valuables out of sight.
• Use reputable taxi services or Uber rather than walking at night.
• Stick to well-lit, busy areas after dark.

I've always felt safe during my visits, but it's important to stay vigilant, just as you would in any unfamiliar city.

FAQ – Top 15 Questions

1. What language do they speak in Pietermaritzburg?

   • English, Zulu, and Afrikaans are commonly spoken.

2. What is the weather like?

   • Warm summers and mild winters, with occasional rainfall year-round.

3. Do I need a visa to visit?

• Depends on your nationality. Check with the South African embassy in your country.

4. Is tap water safe to drink?

   • Yes, tap water is generally safe in Pietermaritzburg.

5. What power plugs are used?

   • South Africa uses Type M plugs, 230V supply voltage and 50Hz.

6. Is Wi-Fi readily available?

• Yes, most hotels and many cafes offer free Wi-Fi.

7. What's the best way to get around?

   • Renting a car is most convenient, but taxis and Uber are also available.

8. Are credit cards widely accepted?

   • Yes, in most establishments, but it's good to carry some cash for small purchases.

9. What's the tipping culture like?

• 10-15% is standard in restaurants if service charge isn't included.

10. Is Pietermaritzburg suitable for family travel?

    • Yes, with many family-friendly attractions and activities.

11. What's the best time of year to visit?

    • Spring (September to November) for mild weather and beautiful blooms.

12. Are there any cultural etiquette rules I should know?

- Respect for elders is important. It's polite to greet people before starting a conversation.

13. Can I use my cell phone?

    • Yes, but check with your provider about international rates. Local SIM cards are available.

14. Are there any must-attend events?

    • The Royal Show in May/June and the Art in the Park festival in April are popular.

15. Is haggling acceptable?

- Generally not in shops, but you can try at markets for non-food items.

Remember, these answers are based on my experiences and research, but it's always good to double-check current information before your trip.

Conclusion

There you have it, fellow adventurers – your ultimate cheat sheet for exploring Pietermaritzburg in 2024! From the awe-inspiring Howick Falls to the mouthwatering flavors of local cuisine, this city is a treasure trove of experiences waiting to be discovered. Remember, the true magic of Pietermaritzburg lies not just in its attractions, but in the warmth of its people and the rich tapestry of its culture. So, pack your bags, bring your sense of adventure, and get ready to create memories that’ll last a lifetime in the City of Choice. Who knows? You might just find yourself planning your next visit before you even leave!