Flights from Durban to Pietermaritzburg
✈️ Flights from Durban to Pietermaritzburg – Complete 2025 Travel Guide
Looking for the fastest way to travel between Durban and the capital city of KwaZulu-Natal, Pietermaritzburg? Whether for business, leisure, or connecting to the Midlands, booking flights from Durban to Pietermaritzburg saves you the hassle of a long road trip and gets you there in under an hour.
In this detailed guide, we’ll cover everything: airlines, costs, best times to book, weather, attractions, FAQs, and insider tips so you can make an informed decision and get the best value on your trip.
🛫 Quick Facts – Durban to Pietermaritzburg Flights
Flight Distance: ± 80 km
Average Flight Duration: 45 minutes – 1 hour
Airlines Operating: Airlink, FlySafair (seasonal/connection options)
Departure Airport: King Shaka International Airport (DUR)
Arrival Airport: Pietermaritzburg Airport (PZB)
Fare Range: R1,200 – R2,500 one way
Best Travel Time: April – September for cooler, dry weather
👉 Related routes worth exploring:
🛫 Airlines Flying Durban to Pietermaritzburg
Currently, Airlink operates the most reliable flights between Durban and Pietermaritzburg. FlySafair sometimes offers connecting flights, though with limited availability.
Airlink: Direct flights, short travel time, premium pricing.
FlySafair: May offer cheaper fares but involves a connection via Johannesburg.
💡 Insider Tip: Since the air route is short, some travelers compare costs with car rentals and road trips — but if speed and comfort matter, flights are unbeatable.
🕒 Flight Duration – How Long is the Flight?
Direct Flights: ± 45 minutes to 1 hour.
1-stop Flights (via JHB): 3–5 hours depending on layovers.
📍 All flights land at Pietermaritzburg Airport (PZB), which is located just 7 km from the city center.
💰 Flight Costs – Durban to Pietermaritzburg
Ticket prices vary based on season, booking window, and airline.
Low Season (Feb–Apr, Sep–Nov): ± R1,200 one way.
Peak Season (Dec–Jan, Jun–Jul): ± R1,800 – R2,500 one way.
👉 For deals and discounts, check out our guide: Cheap Flights to Pietermaritzburg.
💡 How to Find Cheap Flights
Want to save money on flights from Durban to Pietermaritzburg? Try these tips:
Book 4–6 weeks in advance for the lowest prices.
Travel midweek (Tue/Wed): Avoid weekends when demand spikes.
Compare Airlink vs FlySafair – one-stop flights may sometimes be cheaper.
Look at alternative routes: Compare fares with Flights from Durban to Bloemfontein or Flights from Durban to Kimberley.
🌦️ Weather in Pietermaritzburg
Pietermaritzburg has a subtropical climate:
Summer (Nov–Feb): 25°C – 30°C, hot & humid, with rainfall.
Autumn (Mar–May): 18°C – 25°C, cooler and drier – ideal travel season.
Winter (Jun–Aug): 5°C – 20°C, chilly nights, sunny mild days.
Spring (Sep–Oct): 15°C – 26°C, mild, green, and beautiful.
👉 For seasonal insights, see Best Time to Visit Pietermaritzburg.
🎯 Top Attractions in Pietermaritzburg
KwaZulu-Natal Museum: Cultural and natural history collections.
Howick Falls: A scenic waterfall just outside Pietermaritzburg.
Natal Midlands: Countryside trails, farm stalls, and heritage towns.
Comrades Marathon Route: Pietermaritzburg is the starting point for South Africa’s iconic ultramarathon.
🎉 Entertainment & Activities
Arts & Live Theatre: Home to the Tatham Art Gallery & cultural festivals.
Outdoor Fun: Hiking, bird watching, and nature walks in local parks.
Sports Events: Rugby, cricket, and motorsport events often held at the Royal Showgrounds.
🍴 Best Restaurants
🍲 Local Food to Try
Bunny Chow: Durban’s curry-in-a-loaf delicacy, loved here too.
Boerewors & Pap: South African staples.
Umngqusho (samp & beans): A dish with Xhosa roots, common in KwaZulu-Natal.
👥 People & Culture
Pietermaritzburg blends Zulu traditions and British colonial heritage. Locals are proud of their history, with cultural events reflecting both influences. Expect a warm welcome, particularly at local markets and festivals.
🚖 Transport in Pietermaritzburg
Airport Transfers: Shuttles and taxis connect Pietermaritzburg Airport to the city.
Car Rentals: Available for visitors exploring the Midlands.
Public Transport: Limited – best to use taxis or hire a car.
🛍️ Shopping
Liberty Midlands Mall: Modern retail center.
Local Craft Markets: Handmade clothing, beadwork, and art.
🛫 Pietermaritzburg Airport
Code: PZB
Distance to City Center: ± 7 km
Facilities: car hire, taxis, small cafes, basic amenities.
❓ FAQs – Durban → Pietermaritzburg Flights
Q: How long is the flight from Durban to Pietermaritzburg?
± 45 minutes – 1 hour.
Q: Which airlines fly this route?
Airlink (direct), FlySafair (connections).
Q: When is the best time to visit?
April – September for cool, dry weather.
Q: How much is a flight?
R1,200 – R2,500 depending on season.
✅ Final Word
Flying from Durban to Pietermaritzburg is the fastest, most convenient way to reach the capital of KwaZulu-Natal. Whether you’re a business traveler, a history lover, or someone seeking a Midlands countryside retreat, this route saves you time and connects you with a city rich in culture, heritage, and charm.
👉 Compare fares now with Flight Mate Leisure Travel and secure the best Durban to Pietermaritzburg flights today.