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Bloemfontein, Free State to Pietermaritzburg, KwaZulu-Natal from $28: 5 ways by bus, train, flight or car

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from
Bloemfontein, South Africa
to
Pietermaritzburg, South Africa

How to Get from Bloemfontein to Pietermaritzburg: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way

1Map provides directions to cities, towns, landmarks, attractions, and addresses worldwide, offering thousands of multi-modal routes to easily get you from point A to point B.

$28 by busBest price
561 kmDistance
2h 32m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Bloemfontein to Pietermaritzburg with 1Map travel planner. Easily compare ticket prices, explore various transport options, and find the best routes for a seamless and cost-effective travel experience.

Company
various
Plane
Average Duration
3h  41m
Estimated price
$157-329
Recommended
Company
Greyhound ZA
Bus
Average Duration
8h  25m
Estimated price
$28-40
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 561 km
Duration: 2h 32m

See more options

Company
various
Drive
Drive
Average Duration
7h  9m
Estimated price
$71-1570
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
6h  24m
Estimated price
$75-120
Company
various
Plane
Taxi
Average Duration
2h  32m
Estimated price
$136-237
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Traveling From Bloemfontein to Pietermaritzburg

The route from Bloemfontein to Pietermaritzburg takes you from the serene plains of the Free State to the lush landscapes of KwaZulu-Natal, offering a striking contrast of cultures and experiences along the way.

Best Neighbourhoods in Pietermaritzburg

Pietermaritzburg offers diverse neighborhoods, each with its own charm and attractions.

City Centre
• Hub for shopping and dining experiences.
• Rich in historical architecture and cultural sites.
Howick
• Known for its beautiful waterfalls and scenic views.
• Home to vibrant markets and artisanal offerings.
Cascades
• Features modern conveniences and shopping options.
• Family-friendly atmosphere with parks and recreational activities.

Best Times To Visit Pietermaritzburg's Attractions

Timing your visit can enhance your experience of Pietermaritzburg’s gems.

Comrades House
Visit during weekdays for a quieter, intimate tour experience.
KwaZulu-Natal Museum
Early mornings on weekdays provide a peaceful atmosphere for exploration.
The Natal Botanical Gardens
Visit in late afternoon for cooler temperatures and fewer crowds.

Pietermaritzburg Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Pietermaritzburg experiences a subtropical climate with warm summers and mild winters, making it pleasant for outdoor activities year-round. The best times to visit are during the cooler, dry months from May to September, allowing you to enjoy the sights without the heat and humidity.

Dining Recommendation in Pietermaritzburg

Experience the vibrant flavors of Pietermaritzburg at the Granny's right Food Café, where you can indulge in a traditional Bunny Chow—hollowed-out bread filled with spicy curry. This dish, combined with the café’s lively atmosphere and emphasis on local, fresh ingredients, provides a delightful contrast to Bloemfontein’s more understated dining scene.

Bloemfontein - Pietermaritzburg operators

Explore transport companies operating between Bloemfontein and Pietermaritzburg, with prices starting at . These companies offer competitive pricing, flexible schedules, and comfortable travel experiences.

Plane
Website
flyairlink.com

Plane from Bloemfontein (BFN) to Pietermaritzburg (PZB)

Average Duration
3h 41m
Estimated price
$1574-1576

Plane from Bloemfontein (BFN) to Durban (DUR)

Average Duration
1h 20m
Estimated price
$1572-1577
Website
flycemair.co.za

Plane from Bloemfontein (BFN) to Pietermaritzburg (PZB)

Average Duration
4h 21m
Estimated price
$1574-1576

Plane from Bloemfontein (BFN) to Durban (DUR)

Average Duration
1h 20m
Estimated price
$1572-1577
Website
flysafair.co.za

Plane from Bloemfontein (BFN) to Durban (DUR)

Average Duration
3h 10m
Estimated price
$1578-1579
Bus
Contact phone
+27 11 611 8000
Website
greyhound.co.za

Bus from Bloemfontein to Pietermaritzburg

Average Duration
8h 25m
Estimated price
$28-40
Train
Contact phone
011 013 0231
Website
shosholozameyl.co.za

Train from Bloemfontein to Theunissen

Average Duration
1h 18m
Estimated price
$3290-3291
Other Show other routes

Other from Durban to Pietermaritzburg

Average Duration
1h
Estimated price
$40-32900

Bloemfontein to Pietermaritzburg: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips

Traveling between Bloemfontein and Pietermaritzburg offers a variety of convenient options to suit your preferences, schedule, and budget. Whether you prioritize affordability, speed, or comfort, you’re sure to find the perfect way to travel without compromising on quality or convenience.

🚗 Embark on a scenic road trip covering 349 miles from Bloemfontein to Pietermaritzburg, enjoying stunning landscapes along the way. 💸 Prices for the journey by car range from $75 to $120, offering budget-friendly options for travelers seeking adventure. 🌄 After 6 hours and 24 minutes of driving, arrive in Pietermaritzburg, ready to explore the rich cultural heritage and natural beauty of this charming South African city.
Average price
$75 - $120
🛫 Flying from Bloemfontein to Pietermaritzburg typically involves a one-stopover journey, with the quickest flight lasting around 3 hours and 40 minutes. Several airlines, including Safair, CemAir, and Airlink, operate flights on this route. 🌍 The total travel time from Bloemfontein Airport to Pietermaritzburg Airport is approximately 3 hours and 41 minutes. Despite the lack of direct flights, passengers can still reach their destination smoothly through the available connecting flights. 💸 Prices for flights between Pietermaritzburg and Bloemfontein can range from $157 to $329, making it a relatively affordable and convenient mode of transportation for travelers seeking to explore these South African cities.
Departure Point
Bloemfontein Airport
Arrival Point
Pietermaritzburg Airport. The quickest flight takes 3h 40m and has one stopover
🌍 Enjoy an approximately 8-hour and 25-minute scenic ride through South Africa's landscapes on your way to Pietermaritzburg station. Sit back, relax, and take in the views as you travel. 💰 Tickets for the Bloemfontein to Pietermaritzburg bus range from $28 to $40, making it an affordable and efficient transportation option for your travels in South Africa. Experience the convenience of bus travel for this route.
Departure Point
Bloemfontein station
Arrival Point
Pietermaritzburg station

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Bloemfontein to Pietermaritzburg.

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The distance between Bloemfontein and Pietermaritzburg is approximately 255 miles. The typical travel times by various modes of transportation are as follows: by car, it takes approximately 6 hours and 24 minutes; by plane, it takes around 3 hours and 46 minutes; by bus, it takes approximately 8 hours and 45 minutes. Alternatively, by taking a car train and then driving, it takes approximately 7 hours and 9 minutes to reach Pietermaritzburg from Bloemfontein.
The most cost-effective option for traveling from Bloemfontein to Pietermaritzburg is by bus, with ticket prices ranging from $26 to $31. However, this method takes the longest amount of time, approximately 8 hours and 45 minutes. If time is a priority, the quickest option is to fly, which takes around 3 hours and 46 minutes but comes at a higher cost of $140 to $470. It ultimately depends on your budget and travel preferences.
The prices for a bus journey between Pietermaritzburg and Bloemfontein typically range from $26 to $31. It is advisable to check with different bus companies or online platforms to get the most accurate and up-to-date pricing information. Additionally, prices may vary depending on factors such as the time of travel, availability of seats, and any discounts or promotions offered by the bus company.
To travel from Bloemfontein to Pietermaritzburg without using public transportation, you can drive the distance of 349 miles, which takes approximately 6 hours and 24 minutes. The cost for a one-way trip by car ranges from $75 to $120. This option allows for flexibility and the opportunity to enjoy the scenery along the way.
The most convenient way to travel from Bloemfontein to Pietermaritzburg without a car is by bus. The journey takes approximately 8 hours and 45 minutes, and ticket prices range from $26 to $31. Buses provide a comfortable and affordable option for travelers, allowing them to relax and enjoy the scenic views along the way. There are several bus companies that operate this route, offering regular departures throughout the day.
Yes, there is a direct link between Bloemfontein and Pietermaritzburg. Greyhound ZA operates a daily bus service that departs from Bloemfontein and arrives at Pietermaritzburg. The journey takes approximately 8 hours and 45 minutes. This is a convenient option for travelers who prefer not to drive or fly between the two cities.
The flight duration between Bloemfontein and Pietermaritzburg varies depending on the number of stopovers. The quickest flight with one stopover typically takes around 3 hours and 35 minutes. However, there are no direct flights between the two airports, which means passengers must connect through another city. The cost of a flight between Pietermaritzburg and Bloemfontein varies from $147 to $469, depending on the airline, time of booking, and availability of tickets.
There are 195+ hotels available near Pietermaritzburg. Prices for accommodations start at $29 per night. Some popular hotel options include the Imperial Hotel, Road Lodge Pietermaritzburg, and Town View Hotel. Visitors have a wide range of choices to suit their preferences and budget when looking for a place to stay in Pietermaritzburg.