Is Pietermaritzburg safe?

Like any major city, it requires standard safety precautions.

How long is the drive?

It takes about 15 hours of driving time.

Yes, there are several tolls on the N3 highway.

What is the best route?

The N10 to N8 to N3 is the most direct and well-maintained route.

No, there is no practical passenger train service for this route.

Keimoes

Pietermaritzburg

Driving

Keimoes to Pietermaritzburg

Updated: 28 May 2026

The journey from Keimoes to Pietermaritzburg spans approximately 1280 kilometers. You will travel through the Northern Cape, Free State, and into the KwaZulu-Natal Midlands. The route primarily follows the N10 and N3 highways. This is a long-distance drive that requires careful planning, typically taking 14 to 15 hours. Pietermaritzburg, the capital of KZN, is known for its Victorian architecture and proximity to the Drakensberg.

Total Distance: 1280 km driving distance; 920 km straight-line air distance.

Fastest Way

Driving is the fastest, taking approximately 15 hours.

Cheapest Way

Driving is the most practical and cost-effective way to reach Pietermaritzburg.

Compare Keimoes to Pietermaritzburg Routes

Driving

Direct

Duration

15 hours

Avg Price

R2400 - R3000 fuel cost

Operator

Private Vehicle

Route

N10 to Bloemfontein, then N8 and N3 to Pietermaritzburg.

The Midlands Meander is a great detour once you reach the KZN region.

Travel Tips

Stopovers
Bloemfontein or Harrismith are excellent locations for an overnight stop.
Road Conditions
The N3 can be busy with trucks; maintain a safe following distance.
Weather
Pietermaritzburg can be misty; drive with your headlights on in low visibility.
Fuel
Fill up in major towns to avoid higher prices at remote stations.
Navigation
Use a reliable GPS to navigate through the city center.