Why go to overcrowded tourist hotspots when you can come to Mpumalanga?

Jan 29, 2020 | Nelspruit Accommodation

South Africa’s top holiday destinations, for South Africans, is generally the coast. After months spent in the stuffy cities, rushing through life and getting generally stressed out, most of us will head to coast for some fresh air. But if you have been to the coast during the holidays, you’ll know that the overcrowding is real. You can barely find a spot on the beach and if you do get to the beach, there are so many people that it is just about impossible to take a dip in the water.

If you are looking to shake up your holidays by visiting someplace new in 2020, Mpumalanga should be firmly on the map.

Over the years, Mpumalanga has gained a reputation for being one of the most beautiful parts of South Africa and tourism is definitely on the up. Home to gorgeous outdoor attractions and many wonderful natural sights, when visiting our province you are sure to find a real sense of peace.

A quick look at any map will show you that Mpumalanga is a big place. Split into the Highveld and the Lowveld, most of the best loved attractions can be seen in the Lowveld. Home to the provinces capital city, Nelspruit, the Lowveld is a botanical gem filled with countless places to see and things to do. This part of the province is also surprisingly affordable, making it the ideal place to have a holiday.

The Waterfalls

Did you know that there are more waterfalls in this part of the country than anywhere else in South Africa? Travelling along the Panorama Route is the best path to follow when searching for this kind of attraction. Some of the waterfalls are more famous than others and while some are free to visit, others require a small fee that goes towards the upkeep on the attraction.

Popular waterfalls include the Bridal Veil Falls, the Mac Mac Falls, and the Horseshoe Falls. Many of the falls have a place where tourists can stop for a picnic and others require a little bit of a hike to get to.

The Mountains

From the exquisite views of Blyde River Canyon and God’s Window, to the Kaapsehoop Escarpment, although it is called the Lowveld, this part of the province is filled with loads of mountains. When standing on the top of a mountain, it is quite easy to feel small amongst the gorgeous views, and it is also the perfect experience for those who want to find some peace and free their minds.

The Hikes

For those who want to spend their holiday outdoors, the hiking trails on offer in the province are ideal for anyone looking to break away from the city and immerse themselves in quiet and solitude. Hikes can take place in forests and mountains, and those hiking can enjoy sights that very few have the privilege of seeing.

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You can find plenty of information about Mpumalanga’s numerous attractions online when doing your holiday planning. And if you are going to be staying close to Nelspruit book your stay at Nelspruit Lodge.

2020 Must Do Mpumalanga Adventures

Jan 29, 2020 | Nelspruit Accommodation

Forested hiking trails and picnic spots, rushing waterfalls and rivers pouring over ancient rocks creating unbelievable formations, mountains offering exceptional views of distant landscape; Mpumalanga has a lot for those who love to be outdoors. In every way, it is an adventurous destination that lures visitors in with its beauty and makes them feel at home.

The province is best known for being a gateway to the Kruger National Park and for having a balmy, adventure filled destination called the Lowveld. There are loads of things to enjoy here, even if you are not keen on getting too adventurous. But for those who are looking to get their blood pumping, these exciting activities are not to be missed in 2020:

White River Rafting

Sitting on a rubber boat floating furiously down a river is a thrilling experience, especially in the summer months just after the rains. The Sabie River in the Hazyview area is a popular place to enjoy this past time and a trip can take roughly 1 to 2 hours to complete. You won’t need to have much experience to successfully make your way down the river, although it is a good idea to know how to swim!

Horseback Riding

The region has many places to experience horseback riding with trails through forests, grasslands and mountains being among the most popular. Kaapsehoop is without a doubt the most beautiful place to go horseback riding, with the Kaapsehoop Horse Trails offering an unforgettable, interactive experience up in the mountains of the Escarpment.

The Safari

With much of the Kruger National Park situated in Mpumalanga, going on a safari is without a doubt something you will want to do. Along with the option of driving yourself through the Southern Kruger, many local tour companies offer guests the option of full day tours and half day tours. Day safaris might seem short but they are more than enough time to see a wide variety of animals.

Explore the tree tops

Hazyview is home to the world’s longest aerial cable trail. With a guide at the helm, guests are taken on a trail along the Sabie River, through the tree tops of a lush green natural forest. The tour will not only give you the chance to learn all about this indigenous forest and its spectacular plants, but it will also bring you up close to the wildlife that makes its home in the trees.

Take in the history

This part of the world is filled to the brim with interesting history, dating back to the time when Bushmen lived in the area. The area has numerous small historical towns with museums and other interesting attractions. Many of these trips are easily fit into a day, and most of the locations are just a short drive from Nelspruit which will allow you to stay at our Nelspruit accommodation.

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Make 2020 your year to explore South Africa, and start off your adventures in Mpumalanga. For more information about our accommodation or to make a booking, you can contact us.