Passengers have shared positive experiences with Intercape, highlighting the clean buses, friendly and helpful staff, punctuality, and overall comfort during their journeys. Many appreciated the safe travel environment provided by attentive drivers. However, some users noted minor inconveniences such as occasional delays in communication about bus changes or departure times and issues like non-functional charging ports or toilets on board. Despite these small concerns, travelers generally expressed satisfaction with their trips using this service.
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
4 out of 5 stars
Patricia M.
The ride was fairly okay, loved that it had charging ports and wifi and reclining seats. Was very disappointed with the strong urine smell coming from the toilets. Intercape can do better and actually keep their toilets clean without any smells that make it difficult for passengers to even eat.
Intercity Xpress receives praise for its clean and comfortable buses, with many users appreciating the smooth rides, punctuality, and friendly drivers. The availability of charging ports is a highlight for long trips. However, some reviews mention issues with air conditioning not working properly and concerns about delays or early departures affecting passengers' schedules. Overall, customers seem to enjoy their travel experience due to good customer service and professional staff.
From Parkstation the Indian Gentleman at boarding he is so kind and professional ,I enjoyed my traveling ,bus was clean,Driver was communicating and checked for everyone at every stop,I even forgot bus was an hour late at departure , I was giving
update to family re commenting them to travel with Intercity express ,I'm definitely booking another ticket ♥️
5 out of 5 stars
Thato K.
Their services were excellent. Before the trip,they checked if everyone who's supposed to there was in.Told us about the toilet did not know there was toilet. The bus was comfortable but not so luxurious. The driver was excellent,was gentle but efficient. We were given a 20 min break at Montrose Ultra city.Before leaving Montrose they checked if everyone was back.My overall experience with Intercity was excellent.
5 out of 5 stars
Bongekile L.
The trip was short than expected which is a great thing. The driver was extremely late but we got there before time. Nothing bad but please clean your buses fumigation is needed the are cockroaches inside
Many users have praised the timely service, friendly drivers, and comfortable seating provided by Eagle Liner. The availability of charging ports was appreciated in some instances. However, several reviews highlighted issues such as buses being late or lacking air conditioning and toilets. Additionally, there were concerns about booking experiences and bus conditions on occasion.
Many users highlight the punctuality and comfort of Citiliner, with clean buses and friendly drivers contributing to a pleasant travel experience. However, some reviews mention issues such as non-functional charging ports and occasional delays. Despite these minor inconveniences, travelers generally appreciate the service provided by Citiliner for its reliability and quality journey.
Citiliner Plus Johannesburg Pietermaritzburg recent customer reviews
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
2 out of 5 stars
Sphephelo Zwelethu M.
Very bad I was suppose to leave at 19:45 I ended up leaving at 22:00 the bus was very cold
1 out of 5 stars
Nonqubeko M.
I enjoyed everything it's just that we stacked someone the bus was having some problems, but everything was as good and I can't blame anyone one no one planed that
Based on 2408 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 WiFi. APM WC ticket prices on this trip start at US$21
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 113 reviews, the company was rated 2.6 stars on Busbud. Travellers were especially satisfied with the ticket access and the cleanliness but often complained with the WiFi. Big Tree ticket prices on this trip start at US$23
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 54 reviews, the company was rated 4 stars on Busbud. Travellers were especially satisfied with the departure location and the ticket access but often complained with the WiFi. Luvalo Brothers Transport ticket prices on this trip start at US$18
Based on 3700 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 WiFi. Delta Coaches ticket prices on this trip start at US$18
Customers have expressed dissatisfaction with the service provided by Vilamora bus company. Multiple reviews mention delays, inaccurate travel times, and poor communication from staff. Some customers also complain about rude bus drivers. However, there are positive reviews praising the good condition of the buses and friendly drivers. Improvement in punctuality and customer interaction is suggested to enhance the overall experience for passengers.
Their staff should learn to communicate properly with clients their bus drivers are rude
1 out of 5 stars
Mbalenhle M.
Arrived 40min late, they overbooked the bus. When it stopped at Harrismith bus was at capacity already and still took on passengers.3 too many.
We arrived in Pietermaritzburg 2 hours after scheduled time.
Driver and staff no care attitude no communication
2 out of 5 stars
Gert R.
It was my first and last time using Vilamora, I arrived in braamfontein at their offices 30 minutes ahead of what was supposed to be time of departure, 8:30 am, the bus only arrived at 9:30 am, no apology/update from the team on site or the drivers, after all that we were surprised to see that we are now going east to collect people at Lakeside mall, still no communication. I am fed up.
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?
Frequently asked questions on the trip Johannesburg - Pietermaritzburg
What is the distance between Johannesburg and Pietermaritzburg?
It's about 445 km (276 miles) from Johannesburg to Pietermaritzburg.
What are the departure and arrival locations for buses traveling from Johannesburg to Pietermaritzburg?
Buses departing from O. R Tambo Airport Johannesburg in Johannesburg will take you to Pietermaritzburg - Intercape Office, Burger Street (opposite McDonalds) in Pietermaritzburg.
Find cheapest prices for buses
Price is for a one-way ticket for one passenger and based on past searches.
Best price found
09-17
US$35
09-18
US$24
Today
US$16
09-20
US$17
09-21
US$14
09-22
US$14
09-23
US$14
09-24
US$16
The cheapest trip from Johannesburg to Pietermaritzburg was searched and found on Sep 21, 2025 with a price of US$14
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$14 to US$51 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$14 which is on 2025-09-21.
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!
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