Passengers have shared positive experiences with comfortable buses, professional drivers, and good customer care. Many appreciated the reclining seats and timely stops for refreshments. However, several reviews mentioned issues such as non-functional toilets during long journeys and delays due to bus maintenance problems like faulty air-conditioning or charging points not working properly.
Intercape Mainliner Cape Town Pietermaritzburg recent customer reviews
The 1st bus broke down in Worcester, we waited+-5 hours for a replacement bus. The 2nd bus had a breakdown at Montrose, setting us back even further. Upon arrival at Pietermaritzburg KwaZulu Natal, I discovered that my luggage was manhandled, resulting in my bag having been broken. (This is assumed happened at Worcester) When luggage was moved over.Some of my clothing were missing.
2 out of 5 stars
Faghmiedah S.
I enjoyed the comfort of transport and the driving what I did not really enjoyed is the fact that the bus was an hour later with no updates regards the matter
2 out of 5 stars
Bongani M.
This was first longest trip in a bus . Drivers were professional and patient . Intercape bus was in a good working condition.
I nearly died of cold though , if they keep the warmer on at all times since it's winter
Based on 3178 reviews, the company was rated 3.6 stars on Busbud. Travellers were especially satisfied with the ticket access and the staff but often complained with the Wi-Fi. Big Sky ticket prices on this trip start at R 952
Big Sky Cape Town Pietermaritzburg recent customer reviews
Late drop off .the bus delayed and late starting point
Frequently asked questions about travelling from Cape Town to Pietermaritzburg by bus
Please note that timetables, routes, or operator details shown here may be updated or differ at the time of your trip.
How much is the bus ticket from Cape Town to Pietermaritzburg?
The cheapest bus tickets from Cape Town to Pietermaritzburg start at R 841. The average price for this route is around R 1 079. Busbud recommends booking your tickets in advance for the best chance of getting the lowest possible price.
How long is the bus journey from Cape Town to Pietermaritzburg?
The average bus journey time from Cape Town to Pietermaritzburg is 22h 45m, covering a distance of 1227 km. The fastest bus gets you there in 22h and is operated by Intercape.
Which bus companies service the Cape Town to Pietermaritzburg route?
Several major bus companies operate on this route with 6 buses available per day, including services from Intercape, Big Sky.
What is the earliest and latest departure time for the bus from Cape Town to Pietermaritzburg?
The earliest bus departs from Cape Town to Pietermaritzburg at 07:30. And the latest bus departs at 19:15.
What are the CO₂ emissions for the bus trip from Cape Town to Pietermaritzburg?
A bus trip from Cape Town to Pietermaritzburg produces an estimated 31 kg of CO₂, making it a highly eco-friendly travel option and Busbud’s recommended way to travel.
What is the best bus company from Cape Town to Pietermaritzburg?
According to Busbud customers, the highest-rated bus company on this route is Big Sky, with an average rating of 3.6 out of 5 stars based on 3118 reviews.
Which bus company has the best Wi-Fi from Cape Town to Pietermaritzburg?
Based on reviews on Busbud, the bus company Big Sky has the best Wi-Fi rating with a score of 1.5.
Which bus company offers the most punctual service from Cape Town to Pietermaritzburg?
According to Busbud traveller reviews, the most punctual bus company on this route is Big Sky, with a punctuality rating of 3.3 out of 5 stars.
Which bus company has the cleanest buses from Cape Town to Pietermaritzburg?
According to Busbud traveller reviews, the bus company with the cleanest buses on this route is Big Sky, with a cleanliness rating of 4.2 out of 5 stars.
Find cheapest prices for buses
Price is for a one-way ticket for one passenger and based on past searches.
Best price found
13/12
R 1 607
14/12
R 921
Today
R 1 713
16/12
R 1 608
17/12
R 1 345
18/12
R 1 592
19/12
R 1 608
20/12
R 1 608
The cheapest trip from Cape Town to Pietermaritzburg was searched and found on 14 Dec 2025 with a price of R 921
To save money and be sure you have the best seat, it's a good idea to buy your bus tickets from Cape Town to Pietermaritzburg as early as possible.
You can expect to pay from R 921 to R 2 186 for a bus ticket from Cape Town to Pietermaritzburg based on the last 2 days. You can expect to find the cheapest price for the trip at R 1 345, which is on 2025-12-17.
Usually Intercape will charge you higher prices for tickets closer to the departure date. To find the best prices, you should be flexible on your date of travel.
The cheapest trip from Cape Town to Pietermaritzburg was searched and found on 14 Dec 2025 with a price of R 921
