Is Pietermaritzburg safe?

Exercise caution and stay in safe, tourist-friendly areas.

How long is the drive?

The drive takes about 18 hours.

No, there is no practical passenger rail service from Vredendal.

What is the best time to visit?

Autumn and winter are the best times to visit.

Can I fly from Vredendal?

No, you must drive to Cape Town to catch a flight.

Vredendal

Pietermaritzburg

Flight Driving

Vredendal to Pietermaritzburg

Updated: 28 May 2026

The journey from Vredendal to Pietermaritzburg is approximately 1550 kilometers. Driving via the N2 takes about 18 hours, making it a multi-day road trip. Alternatively, you can drive to Cape Town and fly to King Shaka International Airport, then take a shuttle to Pietermaritzburg. This route connects the West Coast to the capital of KwaZulu-Natal. Choose your transport based on your budget and time constraints.

Total Distance: 1550 km driving distance; 1200 km straight-line air distance.

Fastest Way

Flying from Cape Town International Airport is the fastest method.

Cheapest Way

Driving is more economical for groups or families.

Compare Vredendal to Pietermaritzburg Routes

	Flight Connecting	Driving Direct
Duration	8 hours (including drive to CPT and shuttle)	18 hours
Avg Price	R3500 - R6000	R2900 - R3400 in fuel
Operator	Airlink / Safair	Private Vehicle
Route	Drive to CPT, fly to DUR, shuttle to Pietermaritzburg.	N7 to N2 via Cape Town, George, Port Elizabeth, and East London.
Tip	Book your shuttle from the airport to Pietermaritzburg in advance.	Plan for at least two overnight stops along the Garden Route.

Travel Tips

Overnight Stops
Do not drive this in one go; stay overnight in the Garden Route.
Flight Booking
Use online tools to compare flight prices across airlines.
Traffic
Pietermaritzburg traffic can be heavy; plan your arrival accordingly.
Safety
Stay in well-known tourist areas and use reputable transport.
Booking
Book your accommodation in Pietermaritzburg in advance.