population: 0.65 million

extension: 246.9 square kilometers

Museums

If you're in Pietermaritzburg and interested in museums, one place you might enjoy is the KwaZulu-Natal Museum, which features exhibits on the natural and cultural history of the region. Other museums in the area include the Voortrekker Museum, which showcases the history of the Voortrekkers who settled in the area, and the Msunduzi Museum, which focuses on the history and culture of Pietermaritzburg itself. If you're willing to travel a bit, Durban (about an hour away) also has several great museums, including the Phansi Museum, the Durban Natural Science Museum, and the Old Court House Museum.

Food

Pietermaritzburg and the surrounding region of KwaZulu-Natal have a rich culinary history with a delicious blend of Indian, African, and British influences. Here are some recommended, popular, and typical dishes to try according to local people:

1. Bunny Chow: This is a dish that originated in Durban but is now popular throughout the region. It consists of a hollowed-out loaf of bread filled with a spicy curry (usually chicken or mutton), and it's perfect for eating on-the-go.

2. Bobotie: A sweet and savory dish made with spiced minced meat (usually beef or lamb) topped with a layer of egg custard. It's often served with yellow rice and sambals (a type of relish).

3. Durban Curry: This is a spicy and aromatic curry that has its roots in the Indian community in Durban. It can be made with a variety of meats (or vegetables) and is usually served with rice or bread.

4. Braai: South Africans love their barbecues, and a traditional braai is a must-try when in Pietermaritzburg. Meat (usually beef, lamb, or chicken) is grilled over an open flame and served with sides like pap (a type of porridge), chakalaka (a spicy relish), and mielies (corn on the cob).

5. Biltong: This is a dried and cured meat snack that's similar to jerky. It's typically made from beef or game meat and is a popular snack throughout South Africa.

6. Samoosas: These are triangular-shaped pastries filled with spiced meat, vegetables, or cheese. They're a favorite snack or appetizer in Pietermaritzburg and can be found at many local cafes and street vendors.

7. Milk tart: A creamy and sweet dessert made with a pastry crust and a filling of milk, sugar, and cinnamon. It's a classic South African dish that's typically served at special occasions or as an afternoon tea-time treat.

Activities

Some fun activities that local people enjoy in Pietermaritzburg include visiting the Botanical Gardens, which offer beautiful walking trails and picnic spots, taking a trip to the nearby Midlands Meander for arts and crafts shopping and food tasting, exploring the Tala Game Reserve for a chance to see African wildlife up close, hiking in the nearby Drakensberg Mountains, and attending events at the Royal Agricultural Showgrounds, which hosts concerts, shows, and exhibitions throughout the year.