By Aurelia Mbokazi-Kashe
Mpumalanga, known as the place of the rising sun, is one of South Africa’s most stunning provinces, home to warm-hearted people and a blend of nature and culture. From lush greenery and waterfalls to ancient rock formations and breathtaking vistas, it offers something unique in every town. I first visited as a starry-eyed 22-year-old, fell in love with its beauty, and met friends who became family. Xploring Mpumalanga is like unwrapping a gift – take it one step at a time, or its vast beauty may overwhelm you. It truly feels like my second home.
Sudwala Caves
Discover the enchanting Sudwala Caves, the world’s oldest known caves, located near Nelspruit. I remember being in awe and feeling completely insignificant against the towering rock structures that took my breath away. These awe-inspiring solutional caves, carved from dolomite and limestone, feature natural air conditioning, maintaining a cool 17°C year-round. Xplore dazzling crystal formations on guided tours and don’t miss the Dinosaur Park for a prehistoric adventure. The caves’ amphitheatre, with its dome-like roof, hosts concerts for up to 500 guests. A true geological wonder, the Sudwala Caves promise adventure, nature, and history this festive season.
Adam’s Calendar
Uncover the mysteries of Adam’s Calendar, often referred to as “Africa’s Stonehenge,” a 75,000-year-old megalithic site near Kaapsche Hoop in Mpumalanga. Overlooking the stunning Barberton Valley, this ancient stone circle aligns with celestial bodies, hinting at advanced astronomical knowledge. Believed to have tracked celestial events and agricultural cycles, the site also holds possible spiritual significance. Located within the protected Blue Swallow National Heritage Site, Adam’s Calendar offers a captivating glimpse into ancient civilisations. Guided tours are required, making it a perfect destination for history buffs and nature lovers alike.
Barberton Genesis Route
Experience the breathtaking Genesis Route, a 220km scenic drive through
Mpumalanga’s Makhonjwa Mountains, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Connecting
Barberton, Badplaas, and Low’s Creek, this figure-eight route offers diverse landscapes, from savannahs to lush forests, and rich cultural and natural history. Enjoy Big 5 safaris, Gold Rush heritage, vibrant cultural experiences, and thrilling adventures. Perfect for a relaxing getaway or as a gateway to the Kruger Lowveld, Swaziland, and Mozambique, it’s accessible from Carolina, Machadodorp, or Nelspruit. Xplore Mpumalanga’s hidden gem by car, bike, or on foot for an unforgettable journey.
Graskop Gorge
Discover the Graskop Gorge Lift, a must-visit attraction along Mpumalanga’s Panorama Route. Descend 51m into a pristine indigenous forest with a custom-designed lift and xplore 500m of elevated walkways, suspension bridges, and interactive exhibits. Enjoy breathtaking views, wander the Cliff Walkway, or embrace adventure with the Big Swing and zipline. Perfect for families, this innovative attraction offers a unique blend of natural beauty and thrilling activities, making it an unforgettable stop on your Panorama Route journey. If you go with kids, ensure that you are loaded because they will want to keep going on the adventure a number of times.
The Panorama Route
Xplore the iconic Panorama Route, a breathtaking journey through the Lowveld’s most stunning landmarks. Starting in Nelspruit with the Lowveld Botanical Garden, the route winds through White River for golf and a Motor Museum, and Sabie for adventure like 4×4 trails and abseiling. Discover cultural gems in Pilgrim’s Rest before reaching Graskop, home to God’s Window, Lisbon Falls, Berlin Falls, and the Blyde River Canyon. End your trip at the Swadini Forever Resort, offering activities like boat trips and microlight flights. Perfect for nature lovers, adventurers, and families alike, the Panorama Route is a must-visit.
Kruger National Park
Experience the iconic Kruger National Park, a 2-million-hectare haven in the South
African Lowveld, renowned for its incredible biodiversity and rich history. Home to the Big Five, that park attracts over one million visitors each year who venture to see 507 bird species and 147 mammals on self-drive safaris or guided tours. Xplore archaeological treasures like Masorini and Thulamela, alongside bushman rock paintings. With 12 rest camps, bush lodges, and private lodges, it caters to every traveller. Established in 1898, Kruger combines natural beauty with advanced conservation. A must-visit for families and wildlife enthusiasts, it’s the crown jewel of
South Africa’s national parks. Gates located in Mpulanga include Paul Kruger in
Skukuza, Numbi in Pretoriuskop, Malelane in Berg-en-Dal and Malelane, the Crocodile Bridge Gate and Orpen Gate.
Pilgrim’s Rest
Step back in time at Pilgrim’s Rest, a charming historical village in Mpumalanga, where South Africa’s 1870s gold rush began. Declared a National Monument in 1986, it preserves the essence of its gold-mining heyday with authentic buildings, shops, and stories of old. Visit the Royal Hotel’s bar, explore gold rush history, or try your luck on a gold-panning expedition. I can never forget having the most delicious scones at this hotel, it felt like time stood still. Once a bustling prospectors’ hub, its heritage and ancient mining scars make it a unique destination. Perfect for history enthusiasts, Pilgrim’s Rest offers a fascinating glimpse into South Africa’s rich mining past.
Sabie
Discover the charm of Sabie, a serene haven in Mpumalanga, just hours from Gauteng and the Kruger National Park. This family-friendly destination, one of my favourite towns owing to its central location to most of the tourist attractions in Mpumalanga. Sabie offers thrilling activities like hiking, mountain biking, horse riding, white-water rafting, and trout fishing in pristine rivers and dams. Sabie’s renowned trails, including the Fanie Botha Trail, cater to casual walkers and avid hikers, while mountain biking events showcase its breathtaking landscapes. Visit waterfalls, fish for trout, bass, or tilapia, and xplore African arts and crafts. Perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers, Sabie is a must-visit for a memorable Lowveld escape.
Ndebele Villages
Xplore the vibrant culture of Mpumalanga’s Ndebele people, renowned for their vividly painted geometric homesteads and intricate beadwork. Visit the Kghodwana Cultural Village in Siyabuswa to trace 1,000 years of Ndebele history, tour Royal Kraals, and shop for beautiful crafts like bracelets and gala blankets. At Botshabelo Mission Station, an open-air museum, marvel at Esther Mahlangu’s iconic murals and colourful beadwork. Engage with local women about their striking traditional attire. Complete your visit with a stop at Loopspruit Wine Estate, South Africa’s northernmost vineyard, for a refreshing taste of local wine.
Dullstroom
Known as the place of prosperity, Dullstroom offers scenic hikes, horse riding trails, and picnic spots by stunning waterfalls. The village, dating back to the 1880s, is renowned for its cold climate, premier trout fishing, and rare flora and fauna, including the endangered Blue Crane. Visitors can explore the charming village, famous whiskey bar, and clock shop with the largest collections in the southern hemisphere. The Dullstroom Nature Reserve provides self-catering accommodation, camping, and excellent fishing, with hikes through scenic landscapes. It’s an ideal stopover halfway between Johannesburg and Kruger National Park.
