Discover the vibrant tapestry of Pietermaritzburg, a city brimming with cultural richness and natural beauty. In this article, we take you on a tour of the top ten must-visit places that make Pietermaritzburg a captivating destination. From botanical sanctuaries to immersive art galleries and historical treasures, each of these locations offers a unique and enriching experience. Whether you’re a local resident or just passing through, these sites beckon you to explore and appreciate the heart and soul of this South African gem. Join us as we journey through the ten best places to visit in Pietermaritzburg, each with its own tale to tell and an adventure to offer.
1. Wylie Park
Source: Facebook / @Wylie Park Wembley
Nestled in Wembley, Pietermaritzburg, Wylie Park is a captivating eight-hectare haven perched on a lofty peak, treating visitors to breathtaking city vistas. The park beckons you to take a leisurely stroll through its vibrant gardens, where you can admire the beauty of Azaleas, Proteas, and other brightly-hued blossoms.
For those in the mood for a more active experience, the Linwood hiking trail awaits. This trail guides you to the highest summit and leads you along the historic Voortrekkers route, where traces of wagon wheels from times gone by are still visible in some places. Be sure to carry your camera and binoculars with you to capture the splendour of the scenery. Families flock to Wylie Park for idyllic picnics, while it remains a perennial favourite among newlyweds seeking the perfect backdrop for wedding photos. So, whether you call this place home or are just passing through, don’t miss the chance to visit Wylie Park.
2. Pietermaritzburg Model Engineering Society
Source: Facebook / @Pietermaritzburg Model Engineering Society
Experience a unique train journey at the Model Engineering Society in Bisley, Pietermaritzburg. Upon arrival, enjoy a guided tour, explore miniature locomotives, and witness the impressive 1-kilometre-long tracks with bends, tunnels, and bridges, the longest spanning 9 meters. Choose from four charming vintage-style trains, whether steam or diesel, for a delightful ride through the scenic landscape.
A shop on-site offers refreshments, making it an ideal destination for both adults and children and a popular choice for birthday parties and private functions.
3. Rockafellas Pmb
Photo: Facebook / @Rockafellas Pmb
Situated with a view of Scottsville Race Course, Rockafellas is a grand, 500-seater restaurant that offers a dining experience reminiscent of the glamorous 1920s jazz ‘Speakeasy’ era.
Immerse yourself in a culinary spectacle through their ‘kitchen theatre,’ where you can watch their skilled chefs conjuring mouthwatering dishes right before you. Their open-plan buffet is thoughtfully designed for interaction as ten talented chefs craft over 110 diverse dishes. Their menu showcases cuisine from around the globe, inviting you to expand your palate and venture beyond your culinary comfort zone. From succulent spit roasts and delectable seafood to enticing starters, fresh salads, antipasto, and flavorful curries, Rockafellas offers a world of flavours to savour.
4. Redlands Hotel and Lodge
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At The Redlands Hotel they are your go-to destination with a fully licensed bar and restaurant featuring an expanding whiskey collection to satisfy diverse tastes. Whether it’s summer by the pool or a winter evening by the fireplace, their cold beers provide the perfect way to unwind after a long day. In the Blue Room, our acclaimed chefs offer a culinary experience that pairs seamlessly with their selection of wines.
Start your day right with a choice between continental and full English breakfasts. While they are open to the public for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, they highly recommend making reservations to secure your spot and avoid disappointment.
5. Tatham Art Gallery
Source: Facebook / @Tatham Art Gallery
Built in 1903, the Tatham Gallery stands as a prominent art museum celebrated for its diverse collection. It houses enduring exhibits featuring works by local and European artists, with a special space dedicated to KwaZulu-Natal artists, offering them valuable exposure. The Ceramics Room, as its name implies, showcases beautiful pottery pieces as part of the permanent exhibition.
In the Main Exhibition Room, major exhibitions take centre stage, spotlighting individual artists or groups of creatives. This space sometimes features local KwaZulu-Natal artists, drawing from the permanent collection to create inspiring showcases.
6. Blue Caterpillar Art Gallery
Source: Facebook / @Blue Caterpillar Art Gallery
Explore the Blue Caterpillar Art Gallery, a haven for art enthusiasts and admirers of top South African talent. Located at 37 Willowton Road in Pietermaritzburg, this gallery is a prime destination for fine art connoisseurs.
The gallery proudly showcases an extensive and diverse collection of exceptional artwork. Among the treasures you’ll find are a stunning assortment of oils and mixed media creations, including the works of the beloved South African artist Frans Claerhout. In addition, you’ll encounter the unique and authentically African woodcut prints by the masterful Ezequiel Mabote, along with pieces by talented artists such as Derek Miller and Jo Kotze, among others.
7. Msunduzi-Voortrekker Museum
Source: Facebook / @UMsunduzi and Ncome Museums
Voortrekkers” is the Afrikaans/Dutch term for pioneers, literally translating to ‘those who trek ahead.’ “The Great Trek” (Die Groot Trek) encompasses a series of significant migrations by five groups of local Afrikaans pioneers. Disillusioned with British rule over the Cape Colony, they embarked on a journey into the heart of South Africa using ox wagons, starting in 1835 and culminating in establishing the ‘Republic of Natalia’ in Pietermaritzburg in 1839.
Numerous battles involving the local Zulu tribe followed these pioneers’ movements. The Voortrekker Museum site comprises five adjacent buildings, collectively preserving the rich tapestry of South African history. The Main Building now serves as a gallery that tells the story of South Africa’s democratic history. The original 1840 Church of the Vow, constructed to honour the Voortrekkers’ commitment to preserving their heritage, has transformed into The Voortrekker Complex. Original 1849 Voortrekker architecture at 333 Boom Street houses exhibitions on the Anglo-Boer War. The Zulu Hut provides insight into tribal lifestyles, while the Shiva Indian Temple represents the heritage of South African Hindu communities.
8. KZN National Botanical Garden PMB
Source: Facebook / @KZN National Botanical Garden PMB
Nestled in the heart of Pietermaritzburg, the Pietermaritzburg Botanical Garden, also known as the KwaZulu-Natal Botanical Gardens, stands as a sanctuary dedicated to preserving indigenous plants and nurturing east coast grasslands. Its claim to fame is a captivating tree-lined avenue leading to a bell tower, home to a ship bell from the HMS Princess, famously used by King George V during his 1918 channel crossing.
Within this enchanting garden, you’ll find an array of attractions, including a medicinal garden, a nursery, a charming shop, a lively Saturday morning farmers market, and the Sisipho Strelitzia Room Restaurant. As you explore, watch for the 150+ bird species that have graced this botanical haven with their presence.
9. Natal Museum
Source: Facebook / @ KwaZulu-Natal Museum
Swap mini plastic dinosaurs for life-sized Stegosaurus, Triceratops, and T-Rex models at South Africa’s famed Natal Museum. Marvel at the enormous tusks of KwaZulu Natal’s last wild elephant, explore the Mammal Hall’s wide-open Hippopotamus jaw and enjoy taxidermy displays of tropical birds and playful chimpanzees.
Delve into the mysteries of living fossils, marine life, and an extensive Mollusca Collection. Witness the tales of the desert through San Rock Art and appreciate Zulu Pottery, bead art, and bronze treasures from Mapungupwe. The Natal Museum promises an enriching journey through natural history and cultural heritage, sure to leave you amazed.
10. Indlondlo Cultural Village
Source: Facebook / @ Indlondlo Cultural Village
Nestled in Cato Ridge, a mere 40-minute journey from the heart of Durban, the Indlondlo Cultural Village welcomes tourists and local communities. Its mission is to foster harmony and unity, offering a platform for traditional Zulu arts to flourish. The talented performers showcase their ancestral heritage through traditional Zulu dances, enchanting songs, rhythmic drumming, and engaging stage plays. These performances are captivating and deeply moving, leaving an indelible mark on your heart as the melodies and rhythms become an intimately unforgettable part of your experience. Whether it’s a wedding, a corporate event, a cultural celebration, a party, or an exchange program, Indlondlo’s performances are a testament to the cultural richness of the Zulu heritage.
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