Intercape receives praise for its clean buses, friendly and efficient staff, and punctual service. Many passengers enjoyed a comfortable journey with helpful drivers who assist those in need. However, some reviews mention issues like non-functional charging ports or toilets and occasional delays due to bus changes or communication lapses during stopovers. Overall, the positive experiences outweigh these minor inconveniences for most travelers.
The bus was clean and nice the problem was the driver opened an air conditioner the whole trip we ask him to turn off he was very rude...speaking today cause I just been discharged from hospital because of the cold I got in that bus
2 out of 5 stars
Busiswa Samantha M.
It wasn’t a mainliner. It was bigsky. I wish I could be told that before booking.
2 out of 5 stars
Sinovuyo Babalwa N.
The drivers were friendly and dressed neatly also the lady where we checked in. The bus left on time and maintained a good speed although it seemed a little slower than usual and 30 minutes later than the expected time but I enjoyed the trip
The reviews highlight several positive aspects of the bus service, including friendly and professional drivers, comfortable seating with air conditioning and charging ports, clean buses, smooth rides on time departures. Passengers appreciated the easy online booking process and affordable tickets. However, some users mentioned delays in departure times and issues with malfunctioning air conditioning or confusing terminus experiences.
I was very disappointed. Firstly the bus was dirty full of cockroaches, toilet was stinky the smell was bad, no charging pot in the bus, aircorn was not working and the bus was late. Intercity xpress don't respect their passengers at all
1 out of 5 stars
Tsepiso K.
Enjoyed that I was able to charge my phone when it about to run flat, just didn’t enjoy the sound that kept beeping in the bus from Joburg to Pmb- it was very annoying in the ears. It was on & off but when it does come on yooh it was a pain in the ears
4 out of 5 stars
Nombulelo R.
I loved everything about my trip except the thing of waiting for other passengers to come and join us in the bus we waited for 30 min there in Heidelberg.
Many users appreciated the timely service, cleanliness, and friendly drivers. The buses were generally comfortable with features like extra legroom and convenient luggage handling. However, some reviews mentioned issues such as non-functional air conditioning or lack of charging ports on certain trips. Despite these occasional inconveniences, many travelers expressed satisfaction with their overall experience.
Based on 21 reviews, Citiliner was rated 3.7 stars for this trip. Citiliner ticket prices on this trip start at US$17, with the trip lasting on average 437.
Users have shared positive experiences, highlighting the comfort of the seating and cleanliness of the buses. They also appreciated friendly drivers and excellent service from conductors. However, there were mentions of arriving earlier than expected due to fast driving, which caused some inconvenience with pick-up arrangements.
Big Sky Johannesburg Pietermaritzburg recent customer reviews
The bathroom was smelling terrible & the charging ports were not working. this obviously has nothing to do with big-sky per-say but there were people drinking alcohol & making a noise throughout the whole night which was very unpleasant.
1 out of 5 stars
Minentle M.
I have traveled 5 times this year to jhb and this was the quickest , most cleanness, comfortable bus I have been on. The service from the conductors were excellent
5 out of 5 stars
Nicholette P.
It was nice to use big sky as public transport especially for long distance,, it was convinient for me
Based on 2629 reviews, the company was rated 2 stars on Busbud. Travellers were especially satisfied with the ticket access and the cleanliness but often complained with the Wi-Fi. APM WC ticket prices on this trip start at US$22
I feel like I was scammed. Boarded outside Park Station and felt very unsafe. Bus was scheduled for 9pm,we left after 22h30. The "staff" or helpers were all visibly drunk. The "luxury" bus was actually not even close to that. An uncomfortable bus with upright seats for a long distance trip. Then halfway the driver's bank card declined when time came to pay for fuel, another delay!
Based on 115 reviews, the company was rated 2.6 stars on Busbud. Travellers were especially satisfied with the ticket access and the power outlets but often complained with the Wi-Fi. Big Tree ticket prices on this trip start at US$27
Users generally appreciate the punctuality, cleanliness, and comfort of the bus service. Many reviews highlight friendly drivers and a smooth travel experience. However, there are consistent mentions of non-functional charging ports and occasional issues with toilet facilities or air conditioning. Despite these minor concerns, overall satisfaction remains high among travelers due to timely arrivals and courteous staff interactions.
The driver had the heater on and it was soo hot . I was not even winter . Joh and he refused to turn on cooler hair
1 out of 5 stars
Sinenhlanhla N.
The seats were comfortable and our driver was perfect 👌 although the charging point was not working.
4 out of 5 stars
Samukelisiwe H.
The bus arrived late for pick up and arrived earlier at the destination which messed up my whole transport arrangements when I got to PMB . There was also vibration I think from the wheels which made it difficult to rest the head on the headrest, otherwise the trip was fine
Based on 62 reviews, the company was rated 3.9 stars on Busbud. Travellers were especially satisfied with the departure location and the ticket access but often complained with the Wi-Fi. Luvalo Brothers Transport ticket prices on this trip start at US$19
Based on 3813 reviews, the company was rated 1.7 stars on Busbud. Travellers were especially satisfied with the ticket access and the seats but often complained with the Wi-Fi. Delta Coaches ticket prices on this trip start at US$19
Based on 5 reviews, the company was rated 1.6 stars on Busbud. Travellers were especially satisfied with the staff and the departure location but often complained with the Wi-Fi. Citilink ticket prices on this trip start at US$17
Busbud helps you find a bus from Johannesburg to Pietermaritzburg. Get the best fare and schedule, book a round trip ticket or find buses with WiFi and electrical outlets.
We make it our job to connect you with the most dependable bus companies that cover bus service from Johannesburg to Pietermaritzburg.
Whether it is cheap bus tickets or more luxurious buses going to Pietermaritzburg from Johannesburg, we help you find what you're looking for based on how much of a budget you have.
Where are the popular stops in Johannesburg and Pietermaritzburg?
Stops in Johannesburg
A - O.R Tambo Airport Johannesburg
B - Southgate Shopping Centre
Southgate Shopping Centre, Cnr Rifle Range and Colombine,, Johannesburg,Gauteng,SouthAfricaSouthgate Shopping Centre
C - Park City Transit Centre, Johannesburg Station
Frequently asked questions on the trip Johannesburg - Pietermaritzburg
How much does a bus ticket from Johannesburg to Pietermaritzburg cost?
The bus ticket price from Johannesburg to Pietermaritzburg starts at US$15. The best way to find cheap bus tickets from Johannesburg to Pietermaritzburg is to book your tickets as early as possible. Prices tend to rise as your travel date approaches, so book in advance to secure the best prices!
How long is the bus ride from Johannesburg to Pietermaritzburg?
The average travel time between Johannesburg and Pietermaritzburg is around 6h 30m, although the fastest bus will take about 5h 15m. This is the time it takes to travel the 445 km that separates the two cities.
How many daily bus connections are there between Johannesburg and Pietermaritzburg?
The number of buses from Johannesburg to Pietermaritzburg can differ depending on the day of the week. On average, there are 49 on this route. Some buses run direct routes, while others have layovers. Simplify your bus trip from Johannesburg to Pietermaritzburg by comparing and selecting the bus that fits your travel style and budget on Busbud.
Which bus companies travel from Johannesburg to Pietermaritzburg?
When taking the bus from Johannesburg to Pietermaritzburg, you can travel comfortably and safely with Intercape, Intercity Xpress, Eagle Liner.
What are the departure and arrival stations when taking the bus from Johannesburg to Pietermaritzburg?
Buses travelling between Johannesburg and Pietermaritzburg leave from O.R Tambo Airport Johannesburg or Southgate Shopping Centre and arrive at Pietermaritzburg - Intercape Office, Burger Street (opposite McDonalds).
Find cheapest prices for buses
Price is for a one-way ticket for one passenger and based on past searches.
Best price found
30/10
US$22
31/10
US$22
Today
US$13
02/11
US$13
03/11
US$13
04/11
US$14
05/11
US$13
06/11
US$16
The cheapest trip from Johannesburg to Pietermaritzburg was searched and found on 03 Nov 2025 with a price of US$13
To save money and be sure you have the best seat, it's a good idea to buy your bus tickets from Johannesburg to Pietermaritzburg as early as possible.
You can expect to pay from US$13 to US$49 for a bus ticket from Johannesburg to Pietermaritzburg based on the last 2 days. You can expect to find the cheapest price for the trip at US$13, which is on 2025-11-03.
Usually Big Sky 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.
About Bus Travel
Bus Travel Tips
Make friends with the driver. They usually know a lot about your destination and may even recommend which side of the bus to sit on to get the best views on the road between Johannesburg and Pietermaritzburg!
From miles long of beauteous natural landscapes to impressive man-crafted sights, you’re bound to be in for a visual treat on your bus trip from Johannesburg to Pietermaritzburg.
Buses are energy-efficient. Carrying a passenger over 100 kms by coach only takes 0.6-0.9 liters of gas. Compare that to the 2.6 liters required by high-speed train, 6.6 liters by airplane and 7.6 liters by gas-powered car, and it's clear that the bus is a more environmentally-conscious option for your bus transportation from Johannesburg to Pietermaritzburg.
Make a music playlist for your bus ride from Johannesburg to Pietermaritzburg, and enjoy the scenery to tunes from your own personal soundtrack.
Did you know?
Did you know that 80% of the buses in North America are equipped with WiFi and power outlets ? And 60% of bus travellers have used their electronic device on board during 2014.
The Superbus, created by a Dutch engineer is the world's fastest bus with 250 km/h. Too bad it's only a prototype for now.
The average number of passengers on a coach bus is 32 meaning that a bus could replace a minimum of at least 30 cars!
Busbud helps you easily search, compare and book intercity bus tickets on a worlwide scale with our comprehensive list of bus routes and schedules. With Busbud, wherever you go, you have a worldwide bus station within reach and available in your own language and currency. With Busbud, you can buy tickets with confidence. We ensure that you make the most out of your bus trip by partnering up with reliable bus companies from all around the world such as Greyhound, Eurolines, ALSA, OUIBUS (BlaBlaBus), National Express and many others.
The cheapest trip from Johannesburg to Pietermaritzburg was searched and found on 03 Nov 2025 with a price of US$13
