Users have reported that the buses are generally clean and staff members provide friendly service, contributing to a positive travel experience. However, there were some concerns about delays in arrival times and unpleasant odors on board. Additionally, passengers noted issues with seat size and the lack of restrooms as areas for improvement.
The bus was about 45 minutes and the bus was smelling other than that I'm good it was comfortable
3 out of 5 stars
Anelisiwe T.
The bus delayed, the smell was not really good I guess people did not only pee on the toilet but also did number and that was really bad I even vomited because of the smell. Instead of arriving at 2:50 we arrived at 17:39.
3 out of 5 stars
Onele M.
The staff was amazing ,very great reception. The bus delayed by a few minutes but we hit the road in no time. The journey was very satisfying ,big ups Intercape.
Based on 2781 reviews, the company was rated 2.1 stars on Busbud. Travelers 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 $22
Based on 3100 reviews, the company was rated 3.6 stars on Busbud. Travelers were especially satisfied with the ticket access and the staff but often complained with the wifi. Big Sky ticket prices on this trip start at $23
Big Sky Pietermaritzburg Mthatha recent customer reviews
It was horrible, as the bus arrived 2hours 30 minutes late & very cold as the air corn was switched on most of the time.
1 out of 5 stars
Asiso G.
The bus broke down and the driver lied and said there's a strike somewhere. Once they notice that they couldn't get the bus going, they requested another bus to come fetch us. Our arrival time at Mthatha was 4:50am but it is now 09:01am and we are still in the bus.
2 out of 5 stars
Yamkela D.
bus was delayed we were not notified at all of the delays
Eagleliner bus company connects South Africa’s largest cities and beach resorts. They are known for having the most affordable fares in the country, so if the price is your main concern, this might the bus company for you. Their buses are equipped with standard features, like reclining seats, air conditioning and bathrooms. You can travel with up to 25kg of luggage, which is more than enough for most travelers. If your travel plans change, you can reschedule your ticket by paying a 20% fee, up to 6 hours before travel time.
The bus was 1 hour late from the picking point and the were no toilets, no air-conditioned, uncomfortable seats and also arrived very late at mthatha
1 out of 5 stars
Nomonde M.
It was a night mare. The bus arrived very late from PMB to Mthatha, I waited three hours at the Station with no communication about the delays. Upon arrival we spent another drivers trying to get to the filling station because the diesel was almost empty.
2 out of 5 stars
Siphokazi T.
The bus was 2 hours later and it's not the first time this has happened.
Customers express dissatisfaction with Intercity's service, mentioning delays and rude staff. These issues seem to be consistent across multiple reviews.
Based on 3910 reviews, the company was rated 1.7 stars on Busbud. Travelers 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 $26
Based on 1965 reviews, the company was rated 3.6 stars on Busbud. Travelers were especially satisfied with the ticket access and the seats but often complained with the wifi. Citiliner ticket prices on this trip start at $23
Based on 115 reviews, the company was rated 2.6 stars on Busbud. Travelers were especially satisfied with the ticket access and the power outlets but often complained with the wifi. Big Tree ticket prices on this trip start at $26
Based on 62 reviews, the company was rated 3.9 stars on Busbud. Travelers 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 $22
Based on 9181 reviews, the company was rated 3.1 stars on Busbud. Travelers were especially satisfied with the ticket access and the staff but often complained with the wifi. Greyhound South Africa ticket prices on this trip start at $23
Frequently asked questions about traveling from Pietermaritzburg to Mthatha by bus
Please note that schedules, routes, or operator details shown here may be updated or vary at the time of your trip.
How much is the bus ticket from Pietermaritzburg to Mthatha?
The cheapest bus tickets from Pietermaritzburg to Mthatha start from $22. The average price for this route is around $33. Busbud recommends that you book your tickets in advance for a better chance to get the lowest possible price.
How long is the bus ride from Pietermaritzburg to Mthatha?
The average bus trip duration from Pietermaritzburg to Mthatha is 6h 20m, covering a distance of 170 miles (274 km). The quickest bus can get you there in 5h 25m and is operated by Big Sky.
Which bus companies service the Pietermaritzburg to Mthatha route?
What is the earliest and latest departure time for the bus from Pietermaritzburg to Mthatha?
The earliest bus departs from Pietermaritzburg to Mthatha at 12:45am. And the latest bus departs at 11:50pm.
What are the CO₂ emissions for the bus trip from Pietermaritzburg to Mthatha?
A bus trip from Pietermaritzburg to Mthatha generates an estimated 7 kg of CO₂, making it a highly eco-friendly travel option and recommended mode of travel by Busbud.
What is the best bus company from Pietermaritzburg to Mthatha?
According to Busbud customers, the highest-rated bus company on this route is Luvalo Brothers Transport, with an average rating of 3.9 out of 5 stars based on 62 reviews.
Which bus company has the best Wi-Fi from Pietermaritzburg to Mthatha?
Based on reviews on Busbud, the bus company Citiliner has the best Wi-Fi rating with a score of 2.2.
Which bus company has the most timely service from Pietermaritzburg to Mthatha?
According to Busbud traveller reviews, the most timely bus company on this route is Luvalo Brothers Transport, with a punctuality rating of 3.9 out of 5 stars.
Which bus company has the cleanest buses from Pietermaritzburg to Mthatha?
According to Busbud traveller reviews, the bus company with the cleanest buses on this route is Citiliner, with a cleanliness rating of 4.4 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
12/01
$45
12/02
$24
Today
$29
12/04
$23
12/05
$29
12/06
$31
12/07
$31
12/08
$29
The cheapest trip from Pietermaritzburg to Mthatha was searched and found on Dec 4, 2025 with a price of $23
To save money and be sure you have the best seat, it's a good idea to buy your bus tickets from Pietermaritzburg to Mthatha, as early as possible.
You can expect to pay from $23 to $89 for a bus ticket from Pietermaritzburg to Mthatha based on the last 2 days. You can expect to find the cheapest price for the trip at $23 which is on 2025-12-04.
Usually Big Sky, 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.