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Fun Lowveld holiday activities that won’t break the bank

There is quite a lot to do in the Lowveld if you start looking, but we managed to narrow it down to several options that the whole family can enjoy.

While some activities are free, most charge a small entrance fee. One or two may be a bit more expensive, so check the prices on the relevant websites before visiting to avoid disappointment.

Here are seven of our recommendations:

• Panorama Route

Although it’s a bit of a drive, the great fresh-air outing may give you and the kids a new appreciation for nature. Attractions include the beautiful views of God’s Window, the Lisbon and Berlin Falls near Graskop and the mind-boggling Bourke’s Luck Potholes in the Blyde River Canyon.

• Kruger National Park

Work out a route which includes a visit to a camp, lookout spot or picnic site you haven’t been to. Cut down on your spending by packing your own snacks and lunch. Lots of water is also a must due to the severe temperatures expected over the festive season. Remember to pre-book or check in with reservations, as day visitor quotas will apply and there may be long queues to enter the gates.

• Graskop

Harrie’s Pancakes in Graskop are legendary in the Lowveld and the town and surrounds is worth a day trip. Walk off those pancakes to go see the view, waterfall and rock formations at The Pinnacle Rock just outside town. You can also combine this with a visit to the nearby Panorama Route attractions.

• Lowveld National Botanical Garden

Enjoy the colourful plant and animal life, as well as beautiful views as you follow the pathways through the Lowveld Botanical Garden in Mbombela. The gardens feature waterfall viewpoints, the Sappi aerial boardwalk, a nursery, a restaurant, and tea garden. There are also plenty of great picnic spots.

• Sudwala Caves

Combine adventure, history, and learning about nature with a trip to the Sudwala Caves, situated about half an hour’s drive from Mbombela. Besides a tour of the caves, you can also visit the butterfly garden, enjoy a ‘fish spa’ experience, walk the Unity Labyrinth or treat the kids to a tour of the nearby Dinosaur Park.

• Pilgrim’s Rest

The perfect day trip for history buffs. The town of Pilgrim’s Rest features several museums, a war memorial and historic cemetery, and buildings. Visit the Information Centre to get all the brochures, maps, and tickets you’ll need.

• Hiking Trails

Immerse yourself in nature on one of the many hiking trails in the Lowveld.  There are several in the Kruger National Park, the Mpumalanga Tourism and Parks Agency (MTPA)’s sites have day hikes like the Belvedere from Bourke’s Luck, there’s the Bridal Veil Hike near Sabie, and the Matumi Trail near Hazyview.