Is there a train to Pietermaritzburg?

Passenger rail services are currently limited; flying or driving is recommended.

How long is the drive?

The drive takes approximately 17 hours of active driving time.

Yes, the N3 highway has multiple toll plazas.

What is the best route?

The N1 to Bloemfontein followed by the N3 is the standard route.

Yes, provided you stick to main highways and avoid night travel.

Pietermaritzburg

Flight Driving

Strandfontein to Pietermaritzburg

Updated: 28 May 2026

The journey from Strandfontein to Pietermaritzburg spans approximately 1600 kilometers via the N1 and N3 highways. Driving is the most common method, taking roughly 17 hours of pure transit time. Alternatively, you can fly from Cape Town International Airport to King Shaka International Airport followed by a shuttle. The route traverses the Karoo and the Free State before entering the KwaZulu-Natal Midlands. Expect significant toll fees along the N3 corridor. This journey connects the Atlantic coast to the lush hills of the KZN interior.

Total Distance: 1600 km driving distance; 1150 km straight-line air distance.

Fastest Way

Flying from Cape Town to Durban is the fastest, taking 5 hours total.

Cheapest Way

Driving is the cheapest for groups of three or more people.

Compare Strandfontein to Pietermaritzburg Routes

	Flight Connecting	Driving Direct
Duration	5 hours including transfers	17 hours
Avg Price	R2500 - R4500	R2800 - R3500 in fuel
Operator	Airlink	Personal Vehicle
Route	Cape Town International to King Shaka International, then shuttle.	N1 to Bloemfontein, then N8 and N3 to Pietermaritzburg.
Tip	Book at least three weeks in advance for the best fares.	Stop in Colesberg to break the long drive into two days.

Travel Tips

Toll Fees
Budget for N3 toll gates between Johannesburg and Durban.
Fuel Stops
Fill up in major towns like Beaufort West to avoid running low in the Karoo.
Accommodation
Book overnight stays in Bloemfontein if driving solo.
Road Conditions
Check for roadworks on the N3 before departing.
Weather
Expect sudden temperature drops in the Free State during winter.