Flights from Johannesburg to Pietermaritzburg
✈️ Flights from Johannesburg to Pietermaritzburg – Complete 2025 Travel Guide
Flying from Johannesburg (OR Tambo International Airport) to Pietermaritzburg Airport (PZB) is one of the quickest and most convenient ways to reach the heart of KwaZulu-Natal’s Midlands. Whether you’re visiting for business, history, or a countryside escape, flights from Johannesburg to Pietermaritzburg cut travel time from 5+ hours by road to just over 1 hour by air.
In this complete guide, you’ll discover:
Airlines & flight duration
Ticket costs & booking tips
Best time to visit
Pietermaritzburg’s top attractions & food
Cultural insights & transport options
Internal links to related flight routes for smarter planning
By the end, you’ll have all the information you need to book smarter, travel cheaper, and enjoy more of Pietermaritzburg.
🛫 Johannesburg to Pietermaritzburg Flight Overview
Flight Distance: ± 450 km
Average Flight Time: 1h – 1h10m (direct)
Airlines Operating: Airlink (direct), FlySafair (via JHB connections)
Departure Airport: OR Tambo International (JNB)
Arrival Airport: Pietermaritzburg Airport (PZB)
Fare Range: R1,500 – R2,800 one way
Best Travel Months: May – September for cool, dry weather
👉 Compare with other key domestic routes:
🛫 Airlines & Schedule
Airlink currently offers the most reliable direct flights between Johannesburg and Pietermaritzburg.
Airlink: Direct, fast, comfortable.
FlySafair: Limited options via Durban or Johannesburg connections.
Flights depart from OR Tambo International (JNB) and land at Pietermaritzburg Airport (PZB), which is only ± 7 km from the city center.
💡 Insider Tip: Business travelers prefer the morning flights (arriving before 9 AM), while leisure travelers can save money by booking midday departures.
⏱️ Flight Duration
Direct Flights: ± 1 hour
1-stop (via Durban): 3–4 hours
📍 Flights arrive at Pietermaritzburg Airport, a small domestic hub with quick check-outs and less congestion than Durban’s King Shaka.
💰 Ticket Prices – Johannesburg to Pietermaritzburg
Ticket costs vary depending on season, airline, and booking time:
Low Season (Feb–Apr, Sep–Nov): R1,500 – R1,800 one way
High Season (Dec–Jan, Jun–Jul): R2,200 – R2,800 one way
👉 For savings hacks, check our guide on Cheap Flights to Pietermaritzburg.
💡 How to Find Cheap Flights
Here’s how to save money on this route:
Book 6–8 weeks in advance – last-minute tickets are expensive.
Midweek flights (Tuesdays & Wednesdays) are cheaper than Fridays/Sundays.
Avoid peak holidays like Easter & Christmas.
Compare alternatives – sometimes Flights from Johannesburg to Durban + a short drive to Pietermaritzburg can be cheaper.
🌦️ Weather in Pietermaritzburg
Pietermaritzburg has a humid subtropical climate:
Summer (Nov–Feb): 25–30°C, hot & rainy, thunderstorms.
Autumn (Mar–May): 18–25°C, mild, dry, best sightseeing season.
Winter (Jun–Aug): 5–20°C, dry, crisp mornings, great for safaris & hiking.
Spring (Sep–Oct): 15–26°C, warm, fewer tourists.
👉 Detailed seasonal advice: Best Time to Visit Pietermaritzburg.
🎯 Top Attractions in Pietermaritzburg
KwaZulu-Natal Museum: Fossils, natural history, and Zulu culture.
Howick Falls: Stunning 95m waterfall near the Midlands Meander.
Tatham Art Gallery: Renowned collection of SA & international art.
Botanical Gardens: Perfect for birdwatching & family outings.
Comrades Marathon Route: The city is world-famous as the start of this ultramarathon.
🎉 Entertainment & Outdoor Activities
Midlands Meander Route: Craft shops, farm stalls, breweries, and guesthouses.
Theatre & Arts: Tatham Gallery, Hexagon Theatre, and cultural festivals.
Sports Events: Rugby, motorsports, and cricket at the Royal Showgrounds.
🍴 Best Restaurants
The Bistro: Local & international menu, relaxed atmosphere.
Cattle Baron: Famous for steaks and boerewors.
Olive & Oil: Mediterranean-inspired dining.
🍲 Local Foods to Try
Bunny Chow: Durban’s curry classic, also popular here.
Boerewors with Pap: A staple South African meal.
Traditional Stews: Hearty, slow-cooked with lamb, chicken, or beef.
👥 People & Culture
Pietermaritzburg is a melting pot of Zulu, Afrikaner, and English influences. Locals are known for their hospitality, heritage pride, and cultural diversity.
🚖 Transport
Airport Transfers: Taxis & shuttles available from PZB.
Car Rentals: Best for exploring Midlands countryside.
Public Transport: Limited; taxis & Ubers are more reliable.
Locals🛍️ Shopping
Liberty Midlands Mall: Fashion, electronics, and dining.
Local Craft Markets: Handmade beadwork, woodwork, and art.
🛫 Pietermaritzburg Airport (PZB)
Location: ± 7 km from city center
Facilities: Car hire, taxis, cafes, small shops
Flights: Direct services from JHB, CPT, and DUR
❓ FAQs – Johannesburg → Pietermaritzburg Flights
Q: How long is the flight?
± 1 hour.
Q: Which airlines operate?
Airlink (direct), FlySafair (via Durban).
Q: How much do tickets cost?
R1,500 – R2,800 depending on season.
Q: When is the best time to travel?
April – September for mild, dry weather.
✅ Final Word
Flying from Johannesburg to Pietermaritzburg is the fastest way to connect South Africa’s largest city with KwaZulu-Natal’s historic capital. With short flights, competitive fares, and plenty to see and do on arrival, this route is perfect for both business and leisure.
👉 Start comparing fares today with Flight Mate Leisure Travel and book your Johannesburg to Pietermaritzburg flight at the best price.