Richards Bay → Pietermaritzburg
The drive from Richards Bay (KwaZulu-Natal) to Pietermaritzburg (KwaZulu-Natal) is 250 km, taking around 2h 36m. There are no SANRAL toll plazas on this route.
Frequently asked
How long does it take to drive from Richards Bay to Pietermaritzburg?
2h 36m of driving — about 250 km. Add a 30–60 minute buffer for fuel stops and traffic, especially during December and Easter.
How much does fuel cost from Richards Bay to Pietermaritzburg?
A sedan burning 7L/100km will use 17.5 litres at the current ULP 95 price of R20.58/L — about R 360. SUVs, bakkies and trucks burn more; bikes burn less.
How many tolls are between Richards Bay and Pietermaritzburg?
No SANRAL toll plazas on this route — keep your e-tag at home.
What's the total cost of driving from Richards Bay to Pietermaritzburg?
For a single sedan at today's fuel and toll prices, around R 360 one-way. Round trip works out to roughly R 720.
Is it cheaper to drive or fly between Richards Bay and Pietermaritzburg?
Driving costs about R 360 for the vehicle, regardless of how many people are in it. Flights vary, but as a rule of thumb: 3 or more people splitting the drive almost always beats flying once you factor in airport transfers and luggage.
Similar routes
Distance and duration estimated using OpenStreetMap geometry × a 1.3 routing factor (Phase 1.5 replaces this with live OpenRouteService data). Toll tariffs last verified 15 Apr 2026. Fuel prices effective May 2026. Round-trip cost is simply ×2 — actual costs vary with traffic, fuel pump variation, and how often you stop.