De Doorns
De Doorns
Pietermaritzburg
Pietermaritzburg
Driving

De Doorns to Pietermaritzburg

Updated: 28 May 2026

The journey from De Doorns to Pietermaritzburg covers approximately 1300 kilometers. You will take the N1 north to Bloemfontein and then transition to the N3 highway heading towards Durban. This route is a major freight corridor. It is a long-distance drive that requires careful planning. The N3 is a well-maintained toll road.

Total Distance: 1300 km driving distance; 1100 km straight-line air distance.
Fastest Way
Driving via the N1 and N3 is the fastest route, taking 14 hours.
Cheapest Way
Driving is the most practical way to reach Pietermaritzburg from De Doorns.
Compare De Doorns to Pietermaritzburg Routes
Driving
Direct
Duration
14 hours
Avg Price
R1600 - R2000
Operator
Personal Vehicle
Route
N1 to Bloemfontein, then N3 to Pietermaritzburg.

Expect heavy truck traffic on the N3.

Travel Tips
  • Stopovers
    Stay in Bloemfontein to break the drive.
  • Tolls
    Budget for tolls on the N3.
  • Traffic
    Avoid the N3 during holiday peaks.
  • Fuel
    Refuel in major towns along the N1.
  • Safety
    Keep your vehicle locked at all times.
Safety Tips
  • Fatigue
    Take breaks every two hours.
  • Vehicle Check
    Check your tires before the trip.
  • Emergency
    Keep emergency numbers for the KZN region.
  • Visibility
    Use headlights in the early morning.
People Also Ask
  • Is the N3 safe?
    Yes, it is a major highway.
  • How long is the drive?
    Approximately 14 hours of driving.
  • Are there flights?
    You can fly to Durban and drive to Pietermaritzburg.
  • Is it better to fly?
    Yes, flying to Durban saves time.
  • What is the best route?
    The N1 to N3 is the standard route.
Quick Info
  • From De Doorns, Western Cape, South Africa
  • To Pietermaritzburg, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
  • Modes
Best Time to Travel

Autumn for mild weather in the KwaZulu-Natal Midlands.

Things to Do in Pietermaritzburg
1
Golden Horse Casino
A popular entertainment venue in the city.
2
National Botanical Garden
A beautiful space for nature walks and picnics.
3
Midlands Meander
Explore the arts and crafts route nearby.
4
Tatham Art Gallery
One of the finest art museums in the country.
Tags
De Doorns to Pietermaritzburg N1 to N3 route driving to KZN De Doorns travel Pietermaritzburg transport South Africa road trip long distance driving KZN travel
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