The capital of Kwazulu-Natal, the historic Zulu Kingdom, is Pietermaritzburg. An amalgam of all of nature’s colours, it is cradled by green, rolling fields and has the sparklingly blue Msunduzi River flowing through it.
QUICK GUIDE:
Pietermaritzburg is a city that is steeped in culture and African history. Hidden throughout the city are centuries old statues and relics that have been perfectly preserved over the years. Although its history forms the background of Pietermaritzburg’s attraction, it also has the comforts that modern travellers to the city will enjoy such as a variety of hotels, excellent restaurants and fun, vibrant nightclubs. The most notable of these ‘comforts’ is the Golden Horse Casino, a definite feast for anyone who is up for a gamble and a bit of fun.
HINTS/TIPS:
When stuck in Pietermaritzburg do not hesitate to ask a taxicab driver for help. Yes, seriously! The drivers in this city are friendly, courteous and are more than willing to help a fellow traveller. Taxi ranks can be found at most hotels, shopping centres and transport terminals. Temperatures are pretty stable in this city and residents barely feel the winter bite. Note though that in February and March, temperatures have been known to soar up to about 40’C so do not forget sunscreen lotion and protective clothing when visiting in those months.
MUST DO’S
Pietermaritzburg’s pride is its City Hall – a towering building with a 47m clock tower that can be used as a point of reference wherever you are in the city. The Natal Museum affords visitors a glimpse into life in the 18th Century Natal. It contains relics of natural history, African ethnology and even a Mahatma Gandhi collection. Sample Natal’s local cuisine – biltong, tasty samoosas and hot and spicy chillibites. Travel a bit out of town to Mpophomeni, a township just outside of Howick, where you can watch and even participate in the traditional Zulu activities such as traditional dancing, singing and beading. A visit to Butterflys-for-Africa, a butterfly museum, is an otherworldly experience where butterflies from all over the world envelope you as you stroll through the garden. No visit to Pietermaritzburg is complete without a visit to the many street markets where you can pick up beautiful carvings, traditional saris and African artifacts at an absolute steal. Lastly, if you are feeling adventurous, try a Tree Top Canopy Tour near the Karkloof Forest where you can slide down a cable over the top of the forest.
More Resources on Pietermariztberg
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