Flights from Cape Town to Pietermaritzburg
✈️ Flights from Cape Town to Pietermaritzburg – Your Complete 2025 Travel Guide
Travelers looking for a seamless journey from the Mother City to the KwaZulu-Natal Midlands often search for Flights from Cape Town to Pietermaritzburg. This domestic route connects Cape Town International Airport (CPT) with Pietermaritzburg Airport (PZB), offering a convenient way to reach the Midlands without the long drive through Durban. Whether you are planning a business trip, attending the world-famous Comrades Marathon, or exploring the Midlands Meander’s rolling hills, this guide will give you everything you need to know — flight details, travel tips, attractions, cultural highlights, and practical information.
🛫 Flight Information: Cape Town → Pietermaritzburg
Airlines Operating: FlySafair and Airlink are the main carriers offering direct flights. Occasionally, other airlines provide one-stop options via Durban or Johannesburg.
Flight Duration: Approximately 1 hour 40 minutes for direct flights. Connecting flights can take between 3–5 hours depending on layover times.
Departure Airport: Cape Town International Airport (CPT).
Arrival Airport: Pietermaritzburg Airport (PZB), a small but efficient airport just 5 km from the city center.
Flight Frequency: Multiple flights weekly, with peak demand around business events and during the Comrades Marathon.
💡 Tip: Book early (6–8 weeks in advance) to secure cheap flights, especially if traveling during peak school holidays, Easter, or the June/July race season. For cost-sensitive travelers, see our dedicated page: Cheap Flights to Pietermaritzburg.
🌦️ Weather in Pietermaritzburg
Pietermaritzburg enjoys a humid subtropical climate, making it pleasant for year-round visits. Here’s what to expect:
Summer (Nov–Feb): Hot and humid, with temperatures averaging 28°C (82°F). Afternoon thunderstorms are common.
Autumn (Mar–May): Warm days and cooler evenings, perfect for outdoor exploration.
Winter (Jun–Aug): Mild days (15°C / 59°F) with chilly nights. Dry season, making it ideal for hiking and cultural sightseeing.
Spring (Sep–Oct): Moderate weather, blooming landscapes, and fewer crowds.
👉 If your trip is seasonal, we recommend checking our supporting page: Best Time to Visit Pietermaritzburg.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the flight from Cape Town to Pietermaritzburg?
Direct flights take around 1h40m, while flights with layovers can take longer.
Which airlines fly this route?
Currently, Airlink and FlySafair provide the most reliable services.
Do I need a visa?
No, this is a domestic route within South Africa — no visas required.
What is the best time to book?
For cheaper fares, book 1–2 months in advance. Weekend and holiday flights tend to be more expensive.
🎯 Why Visit Pietermaritzburg?
Known as the “City of Flowers”, Pietermaritzburg is the capital of KwaZulu-Natal province and is deeply rooted in South Africa’s colonial and Zulu heritage. The city is famous for:
The Comrades Marathon, the world’s oldest and largest ultramarathon, attracting global athletes each June.
Its red-brick colonial architecture, blending history with modern urban life.
Access to the Midlands Meander, a route filled with craft shops, art galleries, farm stays, and rolling green hills.
Being a gateway to the Drakensberg mountains and KwaZulu-Natal Midlands countryside.
🏞️ Top Attractions in Pietermaritzburg
1. KwaZulu-Natal Museum
A rich collection covering Zulu culture, natural history, and South African heritage.
2. Natal Midlands Meander
Perfect for weekend getaways — art, crafts, gourmet food, and scenic farm stays.
3. Howick Falls
A breathtaking 95m waterfall located about 30 minutes from Pietermaritzburg.
4. Comrades Marathon Route
Even outside race season, you can explore landmarks along this iconic ultramarathon route.
5. Botanical Gardens
Home to indigenous plant collections and peaceful walking trails.
🎭 Entertainment & Culture
Theatre: KZN Arts Theatre and Hexagon Theatre host plays, concerts, and cultural shows.
Art Galleries: Local galleries showcase contemporary African art and Zulu crafts.
Nightlife: Pubs, student bars, and lounges cater to the city’s youthful population.
For broader cultural travel, compare this with Flights from Johannesburg to Durban, where nightlife and beaches dominate.
🍽️ Best Restaurants in Pietermaritzburg
The Bistro – South African and international fusion.
Cattle Baron – Steakhouse classic, known for generous portions.
Olive & Oil – Mediterranean cuisine, perfect for a stylish dinner.
Coffeeberry Café – Ideal for brunch or business coffee.
👉 Don’t miss local specialties: bunny chow, boerewors, and pap with tomato relish.
👥 People & Culture
Pietermaritzburg’s population is a diverse mix of Zulu, Indian, and Afrikaner communities, creating a unique cultural identity. Known for their warmth and hospitality, locals are eager to share stories of heritage and resilience.
Historically, the city is linked to figures like Mahatma Gandhi, who was famously thrown off a train here in 1893 — sparking his movement for justice.
🚖 Transport & Getting Around
Flights: Direct flights from Cape Town to Pietermaritzburg are the quickest option.
Local Transport: Taxis, ride-hailing (Uber, Bolt), and rental cars available.
By Road: 80km from Durban; travelers sometimes fly to Durban and drive.
💡 Related route: Flights from Durban to Pietermaritzburg.
🛍️ Shopping
Liberty Midlands Mall: Over 150 stores including Woolworths, Edgars, and local boutiques.
Local Markets: Zulu beadwork, handcrafted leather goods, and fresh farm produce.
💳 Banks & Money
Major South African banks (FNB, Standard Bank, ABSA) operate across the city with reliable ATM access. International cards are widely accepted in malls and restaurants.
🛫 Airport Information
Pietermaritzburg Airport (PZB):
Small but efficient domestic hub.
Offers connections primarily to Johannesburg and Cape Town.
5–10 minute drive from the city center.
Cape Town International Airport (CPT):
Largest airport in the Western Cape.
Daily departures to Pietermaritzburg and beyond.
🏁 Conclusion
Booking Flights from Cape Town to Pietermaritzburg opens the door to South Africa’s Midlands — a blend of colonial history, Zulu culture, and natural beauty. With direct flights under two hours, flexible schedules, and affordable fares, this route is perfect for both business and leisure travelers. Whether you’re chasing the adrenaline of the Comrades Marathon, exploring waterfalls and farmlands, or indulging in Midlands Meander crafts and cuisine, Pietermaritzburg is a rewarding destination.
👉 Ready to start planning? Compare fares on our Cheap Flights to Pietermaritzburg page and time your trip with our Best Time to Visit Pietermaritzburg guide.