Pietermaritzburg- Travel Tips

What to See, How to Plan & Tours

Pietermaritzburg, the capital and a jewel in the province of KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa, offers a rich tapestry of cultural, historical, and natural beauty that promises an enriching experience for any visitor. As the second-largest city in the province, trailing only behind Durban, Pietermaritzburg carries a profound historical significance and has evolved into an industrial and economic powerhouse within the region. Governed by the Msunduzi Local Municipality, this city is a synthesis of past and present, tradition, and modernity. The city, affectionately referred to as Maritzburg, and colloquially abbreviated to PMB, holds a pivotal place on the South African map for several reasons. Its industrial sector, highlighted by the production of aluminium, timber, and dairy products, anchors the city's economy and underscores its role as the main economic hub of the uMgungundlovu District Municipality. Furthermore, the public sector, thanks to a confluence of local, district, and provincial government offices, stands as a significant employer, illustrating the city's political and administrative importance. The educational landscape in Pietermaritzburg is both robust and vibrant, thanks in part to institutions such as the University of KwaZulu-Natal, offering tertiary education that draws students from across the nation and beyond. This rich educational environment contributes to the city's reputation as a seat of learning and has played a role in its demographic expansion, now boasting a diverse population that includes one of the largest communities of Indian South Africans in the country. Pietermaritzburg's historical narrative is deeply interwoven with the broader South African story, from its origins in the events following the murder of Voortrekker leader Piet Retief by King Dingane's forces, to its instrumental role in the Natalia Republic and later as the capital of the Colony of Natal. Notably, the city is linked with Mahatma Gandhi's profound philosophical and political development, marking the spot where he decided to fight racial discrimination, a decision that would echo across continents and centuries. Moving from history to infrastructure, Pietermaritzburg has embraced the mantle of capital with purposeful strides towards modernization and development, evidence of which is seen in the modernisation of buildings in the city centre and the surge of retail and housing developments. The shift to designate Pietermaritzburg as the sole capital of KwaZulu-Natal in 2004 has further solidified its status as a central hub of administrative and political activity, bringing with it government offices and new opportunities for growth and development. The region's economy, once thrived on textile, clothing, and footwear industries, today, looks towards its vast timber plantations and citrus farms as significant contributors to the city's output. The establishment of the Liberty Midlands Mall and major investments from companies like Hulett's Aluminium and Willowton cooking oil underscore a diversified economic base. Additionally, Pietermaritzburg’s culinary claims to fame include being the birthplace of the major South African pizza franchise, Debonairs Pizza, adding a flavor of entrepreneurial success to the city's portfolio. Beyond the economic and political, the city's tourism draws are equally compelling. From the architecturally magnificent City Hall and Colonial Buildings to the serene and beautiful SANBI Botanical Gardens, Pietermaritzburg offers a panorama of experiences. The surrounding areas are not to be missed either, with treasures like Howick Falls, the soothing environs of the Midmar Public Nature Reserve, and the breathtaking views from World's View promising visitors a truly memorable stay.