Yes, it is a major highway, but stay alert for heavy truck traffic.

How long is the bus ride?

The bus ride is approximately 7 hours.

Yes, there are several toll plazas on the N3.

You can fly to Durban and take a shuttle to Pietermaritzburg.

Brakpan

Pietermaritzburg

Bus Driving

Brakpan to Pietermaritzburg

Updated: 28 May 2026

The drive from Brakpan to Pietermaritzburg is a straightforward 520-kilometer journey along the N3 highway. This route is the main artery connecting Gauteng to KwaZulu-Natal, passing through Harrismith and the Drakensberg foothills. Driving typically takes 5.5 hours, though traffic near the Van Reenen's Pass can cause delays. Bus services are also frequent and reliable for this popular route. Pietermaritzburg is the capital of KwaZulu-Natal and is known for its Victorian architecture.

Total Distance: 520 km driving distance, 430 km straight-line air distance.

Fastest Way

Driving is the fastest, taking 5.5 hours, assuming no major traffic on the N3.

Cheapest Way

Bus travel is the most economical way to reach Pietermaritzburg.

Compare Brakpan to Pietermaritzburg Routes

	Bus Direct	Driving Direct
Duration	7 hours	5 hours 30 mins
Avg Price	R400 - R700	R900 - R1200 fuel
Operator	Greyhound	N/A
Route	Brakpan to Pietermaritzburg Station.	N3 highway through Heidelberg, Harrismith, and Ladysmith.
Tip	Book in advance for cheaper tickets.	Van Reenen's Pass can be dangerous in mist; drive slowly.

Travel Tips

N3 Traffic
Check traffic reports for the N3 before departing.
Van Reenen's Pass
Be prepared for sudden weather changes on the pass.
Booking
Book bus tickets online to save time.
Stopovers
Harrismith is a great place to stop for a meal.
Safety
Keep your car doors locked at all times.

Safety Tips

Driving
Avoid overtaking on blind rises on the N3.
Emergency
Keep a list of emergency numbers for KZN.
Security
Do not stop for hitchhikers on the highway.
Health
Stay hydrated during the drive.