Pietermaritzburg, South Africa: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2024]

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Ready to pack for Pietermaritzburg, South Africa? If you're planning to go to Pietermaritzburg, this article contains some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.

Contents

When to go to Pietermaritzburg, South Africa

Based on the climate and weather in Pietermaritzburg, South Africa, the best time to go is May. See below for details.

What to wear/what to pack for Pietermaritzburg, South Africa

Already know when you're traveling?

Here are some general tips on what to wear in Pietermaritzburg, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.

What to wear/what to pack for Pietermaritzburg, South Africa by month

January

January in Pietermaritzburg is warm. Temperatures average in the low 70s F (low 20s C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher. It rains about two thirds of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, South Africa has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing things recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Pietermaritzburg may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, M and N. It's important that you pick the necessary kind. The majority of adapters available online are simply plugs and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one is sufficent for most locations.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

February

February is a perfect temperature. Temperatures average in the low 70s F (low 20s C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher. It rains about half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, South Africa has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing things nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Pietermaritzburg may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, M and N. It's important that you choose the correct kind. Most adapters currently being sold are just plugs and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most countries.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

March

If you are traveling to Pietermaritzburg in March, you will notice that it is warm. Expect it to rain about half of the time. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the low 60s F (low 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, South Africa has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing things these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Pietermaritzburg may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, M and N. Take care to choose the necessary type. Many adapters on sale are simply plug changers and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most countries.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our fave is this one

April

Traveling to Pietermaritzburg in April, you will notice that it is mild. Expect it to rain regularly. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the 60s F (high 10s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, South Africa has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Pietermaritzburg may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing things recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, M and N. Take care to get the correct kind. Most adapters available online are just plugs and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most locations.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck pillow

    A great choice is this one

May

May for Pietermaritzburg dry with little rain. Temperatures average in the high 50s F (mid 10s C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher. There is frost once in a while. It rains sometimes.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, South Africa has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing bags recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Pietermaritzburg may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, M and N. Make sure to pick the necessary type. Many adapters currently available are just plugs and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one works in most countries.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

June

June here dry with little rain. Temperatures average in the 50s F (low 10s C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher. There is frost about a third of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, South Africa has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Pietermaritzburg may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing bags recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, M and N. Be careful to choose the right type. Many adapters currently being sold are just plugs and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most locations.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Travel pillow

    What we like is this one

July

If you go to Pietermaritzburg in July, you will notice that it dry with little rain. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the 50s F (low 10s C). There is frost about a third of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, South Africa has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing luggage these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Pietermaritzburg may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, M and N. Ensure that you pick the necessary kind. The majority of adapters currently available are just plug changers and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should be appropriate for most countries.

  • Travel pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

August

August is cool. Temperatures average in the high 50s F (mid 10s C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher. There is frost once in a while. It rains occasionally.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, South Africa has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing bags recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Pietermaritzburg may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, M and N. It's important that you pick the right type. A lot of adapters for sale now are just plugs and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one works in most locations.

  • Travel pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

September

Traveling to Pietermaritzburg in September, you will notice that it is balmy. Expect it to rain about a third of the time. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the low 60s F (high 10s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, South Africa has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Pietermaritzburg may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, M and N. Take care to choose the correct kind. The majority of adapters currently being sold are just plugs and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should be sufficient for most locations.

October

Traveling to Pietermaritzburg in October, you will notice that it is balmy. Expect it to rain about half of the time. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the 60s F (high 10s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, South Africa has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing bags recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Pietermaritzburg may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, M and N. Be sure to pick the right type. A lot of adapters available are just plug changers and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one should be appropriate for most countries.

November

November in this region is warm. Temperatures average in the high 60s F (high 10s C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher. It rains about two thirds of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, South Africa has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Pietermaritzburg may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing things nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, M and N. Ensure that you get the right type. The majority of adapters currently being sold are simply plugs and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be appropriate for most locations.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck pillow

    A good option is this one

December

December here is a perfect temperature. Temperatures average in the low 60s F (low 20s C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher. It rains about two thirds of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, South Africa has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing bags these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Pietermaritzburg may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, M and N. It's important that you choose the correct kind. Many adapters for sale now are just plug changers and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should be sufficient for most countries.

  • Travel neck support pillow

    What we like is this one

What to do in Pietermaritzburg, South Africa

Located in the province of KwaZulu-Natal, Pietermaritzburg is a city filled with a rich history, diverse culture, and picturesque landscapes. From nature reserves to museums, there are plenty of top tourist attractions to explore in Pietermaritzburg.

Here are some of the top tourist attractions in Pietermaritzburg:

1. The Natal Museum

The Natal Museum is a must-visit attraction for history buffs. It is the oldest museum in South Africa and has an extensive collection of fossils, anthropological artifacts, and historical exhibits. Visitors can learn about the Zulu culture, the history of the British colonization, and the colonial architecture of the city.

2. KwaZulu-Natal National Botanical Garden

The KwaZulu-Natal National Botanical Garden is a beautiful garden that houses an array of indigenous plants, flowers, and trees. Visitors can enjoy a leisurely stroll through the gardens, spot a variety of bird species, and enjoy a picnic in the serene surroundings.

3. Tala Private Game Reserve

Tala Private Game Reserve is a natural paradise that is home to a variety of wildlife, including giraffes, zebras, wildebeests, and antelopes. Visitors can embark on a guided tour to see these animals up close in their natural habitat, or opt for a horseback safari for a more immersive experience.

4. Pietermaritzburg City Hall

The Pietermaritzburg City Hall is an iconic landmark and a significant part of the city's history. Built-in 1893, the City Hall boasts an impressive clock tower, beautiful architecture, and a museum on its lower floor. Visitors can admire the impressive features of this historic building and learn about its history.

5. Albert Falls Dam and Nature Reserve

The Albert Falls Dam is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can enjoy a range of activities, including fishing, boating, and horse riding, or take a scenic hike through the nature reserve. The dam's serene surroundings are perfect for a family picnic or a relaxing day out in nature.

6. Umgeni Valley Nature Reserve

The Umgeni Valley Nature Reserve is a beautiful and tranquil nature reserve that spans across several hectares of land. Visitors can take a guided tour to learn about the reserve's diverse ecosystem or enjoy a leisurely walk through the reserve's hiking trails. The reserve is also home to a range of bird species, including the crowned eagle, making it a popular attraction for birdwatchers.

7. The Voortrekker Museum

The Voortrekker Museum is a fascinating attraction that showcases the history of the Boer settlers in South Africa. Visitors can explore the museum's exhibits and learn about the Voortrekker's struggles and triumphs as they settled in South Africa. The museum also houses a replica laager, which is a traditional circular defense formation used by the Voortrekkers.

In conclusion, Pietermaritzburg boasts a range of impressive tourist attractions that cater to all types of travelers. Whether you're interested in history, nature, or outdoor activities, Pietermaritzburg is sure to offer something that will pique your interest. Plan your trip to Pietermaritzburg today and experience the best of what this South African city has to offer.

About your travel guide

Hi! I'm Dev. I've traveled all over the world and in my travels, I have made many packing lists. In this series, my team and I have compiled the most useful information, as well as things we couldn't live without, to help you plan your trip.

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