Pietermaritzburg

South Africa

Friday, August 29, 2025

Sunrise

6:15 AM

Sunset

5:43 PM

About

Pietermaritzburg is a historic city in South Africa's KwaZulu-Natal province. Known for its Victorian architecture, lush botanical gardens, and rich cultural heritage, Pietermaritzburg is a charming and picturesque destination. With a thriving arts scene, numerous museums and galleries, and easy access to nearby wildlife reserves and natural wonders, Pietermaritzburg offers visitors a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty.

30 Best Places to Visit

1. The KwaZulu-Natal Museum

This museum is home to some of the most significant collections in the world, especially those that focus on the history of KwaZulu-Natal and its peoples.
2. The Natal Zoological Gardens

This is a perfect place to spend a scenic day outside while enjoying the company of delightful creatures, including birds, reptiles, and mammals.
3. Tatham Art Gallery

One of the foremost art museums in South Africa, this museum displays an impressive collection of African and European Art.
4. Butterflies for Africa

This lovely butterfly garden offers visitors the chance to watch a host of butterflies fly freely around them.
5. Cascades Lifestyle Centre

This shopping center has everything from clothing stores to movie theaters, making it an ideal site for a day out.
6. The Pietermaritzburg Botanical Gardens

This garden is breathtakingly beautiful and features a range of indigenous and exotic plants.
7. Liberty Midlands Mall

This vast shopping mall has everything shoppers could possibly want, making it a great place to spend a lazy afternoon.
8. The Golden Horse Casino

This casino is a hotspot for gaming, glitz, and glamour, complete with a cinema and a host of restaurants.
9. The Howick Falls

This stunning waterfall is known for its sheer beauty and natural wonders, and it is a popular attraction for tourists and locals alike.
10. The Comrades Marathon Museum

This museum has an extensive collection of artefacts and memorabilia that tell the history of the famous marathon.
11. Macrorie House Museum

This historic house and museum is filled with artifacts and objects that tell the story of Pietermaritzburg's colonial past.
12. The Voortrekker Museum

A symbol of pioneer life, this museum is dedicated to educating visitors about the Great Trek and life in the early 19th century.
13. The Mandela Capture Monument

This statue celebrates the historic role that Pietermaritzburg played in the life of Nelson Mandela.
14. The Pietermaritzburg Station

This historic station has served Pietermaritzburg since 1880 and is a great starting point for exploring the city.
15. The Commercial Road District

This area is the hub for local business and one of the busiest parts of town.
16. The Scottsville Racecourse

This racetrack has been around for over a century and is a popular site for horse racing and exhibitions.
17. The Old Prison

This historic building served as a prison for more than a century before being converted into an arts and craft center.
18. The Alexandra Park

This expansive park is a great place for a scenic walk or a picnic with friends.
19. The Pietermaritzburg Oval

This cricket ground has been a fixture of Pietermaritzburg's sporting scene for decades.
20. The Pietermaritzburg Golf Course

This golf course is one of the most beautiful and sophisticated in South Africa.
21. The Church Homes Senior Citizen's Village

This lively retirement community offers seniors a range of charming facilities and amenities.
22. The Green Belt Art Gallery

This gallery showcases works by local painters and craftsmen.
23. The KwaZulu-Natal Society of Arts

This art society is dedicated to nurturing the best artistic talent in KwaZulu-Natal.
24. The Greystone Park Nature Reserve

This nature reserve is home to a range of native flora and fauna, making it an ideal spot for hiking and exploration.
25. The Hilton Arts Festival

This annual festival is a wonderful showcase of local and international theater, music, dance, and visual arts.
26. The Victoria Country Club Golf Course

This course is nestled in the heart of the picturesque Victoria Country Club and is a popular spot for golf enthusiasts.
27. The Umgeni Valley Nature Reserve

This nature reserve is known for its magnificent natural beauty and diverse wildlife.
28. The Parklane Spar

This supermarket does not just offer groceries, but a variety of delights, like delicious baked goods and freshly made sushi.
29. The Garden of Remembrance

This park is a peaceful and reflective site for contemplating the sacrifices made by local soldiers in conflict.
30. The Post Office Tree

This historic tree served as a prominent landmark for early travelers and is now a symbol of Pietermaritzburg's colonial past.