Pietermaritzburg to Bethlehem

• Mountain Driving

  The roads can be steep and winding; use lower gears when descending.
• Weather

  Mountain weather changes quickly; carry a warm jacket even in summer.
• Photography

  The scenery is breathtaking; plan for extra time to stop and take photos.
• Fuel

  Fill up in Bergville before heading into the mountains.
• Safety

  Avoid driving at night as mountain roads have no lighting and potential wildlife hazards.

• Road Hazards

  Watch for rockfalls on the R74 after heavy rain.
• Emergency

  Keep a fully charged phone and a power bank in your car.
• Visibility

  Use fog lights if you encounter mist in the mountain passes.
• Security

  Always lock your car when stopping at scenic viewpoints.

• Is Bethlehem safe?
  Yes, it is a quiet and safe town, but standard precautions apply.
• How long is the drive?
  The drive takes about 4 hours.
• Are there trains?
  There is no direct passenger train service to Bethlehem.
• What is the best route?
  The R74 is the most scenic and direct route.
• Is it worth visiting?
  Yes, especially for its proximity to the Golden Gate Highlands National Park.

• From Pietermaritzburg, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
• To Bethlehem, Free State, South Africa
• Modes

Autumn (April to May) for crisp air and beautiful fall colors in the mountains.