What to do, where to go… Let’s travel 2024

A warm welcome to South Africa’s premier inland tourism destination, the Kruger Lowveld, a wildlife enthusiast’s paradise, a nature lover’s paradise, an adrenaline addict’s paradise, a rambler’s paradise, a historian’s haven and a culture vulture’s haven.

The enthralling Kruger Lowveld keeps visitors coming back for more. Whether it’s to visit the famous Kruger National Park or other renowned wildlife destinations; to view the ancient landscape framed by Barberton’s Makhonjwa Mountains, to explore the Blyde River Canyon and its glorious cliffs of the Panorama Route; to experience the Lowveld culture, which has a wealth of stories that inspire the senses and connect one to the land and its people; or just to be able to visit three countries in one day, South Africa, Mozambique and eSwatini, the Kruger Lowveld has it all.

With unsurpassed natural beauty and a richness of culture, not many places compare.

The Kruger Lowveld offers something for everyone, including getting to know fascinating people, learning about the history and absorbing the culture, enjoying delicious food and kind hospitality, being active, exploring and creating lifelong memories.

Isn’t it time you put it on your bucket list?

It’s a no-brainer, you absolutely have to experience the Kruger Lowveld! We have some of the best attractions and a suite of one-of-a-kind activities that rival any destination in the world!

The waterfalls

You’ve heard of chasing waterfalls, right? Well, our region is home to some of the most magnificent and majestic stunners! You will be overwhelmed by the greenery and crisp air while chasing our wondrous falls. Our favourites include the Lisbon Falls, which are located near Graskop and are the highest in our province, falling at a whopping 94m. Lone Creek Falls is surrounded by indigenous forest and is exceptional to behold. This waterfall has been declared a national monument for its astounding beauty.

The Panorama Route

The route is set along the Blyde River Canyon, which is the largest green canyon in the world and offers a plethora of scenic stops and destinations along it. More than just waterfalls, the route also includes the natural water feature that is the Bourke’s Luck Potholes and the spectacular God’s Window. It is also worthwhile to explore the towns located along the Panorama Route, such as Graskop and Sabie. It is for all these attractions that the Panorama Route is famous.

The wildlife

Whether it’s in the Kruger National Park, one of the surrounding private reserves or our provincial nature reserves, your safari experience is bound to be indescribable! Authentic safaris in Big 5 country are an experience like no other. From the traditional African safari game drives to safaris on horseback, there are plenty of magical ways to see our wildlife.

The gastronomic experiences

Unique dining experiences are littered along the Kruger Lowveld Region. From fine to casual dining, we have it all! Looking for a dining experience of a different kind? Visit the Chubby Pig Eatery near Bourke’s Luck Potholes for a casual outdoor dining experience. Each town has eateries
they are famous for, such as Harrie’s Pancakes in Graskop and Johnny’s Pub
in Pilgrim’s Rest.

The adventures for the fearless!

High-energy adrenaline-filled activities exist for those who want to experience our region in mid-air, in the water or even underground! Our region caters for all adrenaline junkies through the likes of the Big Swing, river rafting, abseiling, tubing, quad biking, the Long Tom Toboggan and so much more! You haven’t fully experienced our region if you haven’t tried one of our adventures.

The people, towns and interesting history

Our towns have character and they all have a colourful history that is made more fascinating by their inhabitants, such as in Pilgrim’s Rest, which was formed after the discovery of gold and is now a living national monument. This historic gem offers visitors and glimpse into the past and captures the spirit of a bygone era that is brought to life by its locals.

The Barberton Makhonjwa Geotrail

The Geotrail is a glimpse into the best-preserved example of the Archaean geological period in the world. Some of the Earth’s oldest preserved rocks have been examined and have revealed secrets that date back towards the beginning. Located near the town of Barberton, the Geotrail offers the opportunity to explore this geological marvel through information panels at every geographical site along the 40km route. The breathtaking views of the Makhonjwa Mountain range creates an enjoyable and educational outdoor experience guaranteed to be enjoyed by the whole family.

The best bird-watching locations … worldwide!

Known as one of the world’s best destinations for birds and birders, the Kruger Lowveld boasts numerous ecological sites and important birding areas where avian life thrives. These include Kaapsehoop, Songimvelo Nature Reserve and the Misty Mountain Natural Heritage Site.

The Lowveld National Botanical Garden

This welcoming haven is for walkers, birders and those seeking a moment of tranquillity. A stroll through the medicinal garden reveals a unique and informative collection of plants, while the African rainforest contains some plants from the rapidly disappearing tropical forests of Central and West Africa. This is the ideal way to escape the madding crowd and listen to the soothing sounds of nature.

The awesome weather!

With a warmer, drier and subtropical climate, the Kruger Lowveld region is the ideal inland winter holiday destination, as the days are milder and therefore much more tolerable. With an average winter temperature of 23°C, our destination is ideal for ‘chasing summer’. With a climate that supports picturesque landscapes, there’s no reason not to visit!

For more information and reservations, visit www.krugerlowveld.com or contact us on +27 (0)13 755 1988 / +27 (0)82 321 6018 / info@krugerlowveld.com.

 

Renowned as the discovery site of some of the first pieces of evidence of human habitation in the world, we explore the history of the oldest caves known to man, the Mpumalanga Sudwala Caves.

Home to utensils dating as far back as the early Stone Age, around 2.5 million years ago, spanning up to a few thousand years BC, the Sudwala Caves boast an impressive collection of artefacts and relics that tell a wondrous story about the history of humankind.

While only a small part of the 30km expansive cave system is accessible to man, a number of impressive chambers host ancient rock formations, which can be viewed when visiting the Sudwala Caves. Used as a shelter by prehistoric man, by far the most impressive feature of the caves has to be the mighty and mysterious amphitheatre.

Spanning 70m in diameter, the natural arena reaches a staggering 37m high and receives a rush of cool fresh air from an unknown ventilation source. The domed roof creates natural acoustics making the amphitheatre the ideal location for many spectacular concerts including the 2024 Innibos performance by Nataniël and Steinway pianist Charl du Plessis.

During the 19th century the caves were inhabited by the Swazi people and saw many bloody battles during the fight for the Swazi throne. Later, these caves also featured in legend said to have been the hiding place of the Kruger Millions including bullion and state treasure of gold sovereigns that unaccountably vanished in 1900. Home to some 800 horseshoe bats, the caves are not only known for their plated treasures but mineral deposits too.

Today, considered a tourism gem, visitors now enjoy the Suwala Caves for their cultural heritage and prehistoric history, protected and preserved as a natural wonder in Mpumalanga.

Visitors can participate in one of two cave tours, namely the hour long venture 600 metres into the cave system, some 150m under the surface of the ground. Discover various geographic features beautifully lit and expertly guided by one of the informed tour guides.

For the more adventurous, the Crystal Tour takes visitors 200 metres into the heart of the Sudwala Cave system into a crystal chamber encrusted by stunning aragonite crystals.

Dinosaur Park

The Dinosaur Park is situated next to the Sudwala Caves, 30 minutes drive from Nelspruit, Mpumalanga, South Africa. The museum displays life-size models of prehistoric animals, ranging from amphibious reptiles, dinosaurs, mammals, man and more. The models were artistically and realistically sculpted by Jan van Zijl.

The park is set in a lush subtropical forest garden and has live Nile crocodiles on display.

There is also a viewing deck with fantastic views over the Rainforest Valley.

Nestled in the heart of Mpumalanga’s Schoemanskloof, Mbizane Nature Conservancy is a hidden gem, offering visitors an immersive retreat into nature.

Recognised on the Register of Natural Heritage Sites, Mbizane is celebrated for its dramatic cliffs, serene rivers, and exceptional biodiversity. This private sanctuary is a perfect destination for those seeking both adventure and relaxation, with luxurious accommodations and a range of outdoor activities to suit every visitor.

At Mbizane, guests can indulge in nature without sacrificing comfort. The conservancy features four elevated luxury two-sleeper tents, each strategically placed along a gentle stream, offering unobstructed views of the towering cliffs.

These identically furnished tents are designed to blend seamlessly into their natural surroundings while offering all the modern conveniences of home.

With a spacious lounge, dining area, bedroom, and open-plan bathroom, the tents provide an ideal balance between rustic charm and contemporary comfort.

Large balconies allow guests to fully appreciate the stunning landscape, creating a living area that feels like an extension of the outdoors.

For those looking to explore, Mbizane offers a variety of activities that showcase the region’s natural beauty. Birdwatchers can spot a wide array of species, while hikers can traverse the trails that wind through the conservancy’s riverine forests and scenic escarpments.

Swimming in natural pools, taking leisurely escarpment drives, and enjoying picnics in secluded spots add to the appeal. Sundowners at lookout towers offer a magical way to end the day, with panoramic views of the valley below.

Guests can also enjoy delicious, locally sourced meals at the on-site restaurant, or make use of the well-equipped self-catering kitchen in their tents.

Starting at R3 800 per tent per night, including breakfast, Mbizane offers an unforgettable, eco-conscious luxury escape.

Nestled in a tranquil setting, The Kingfisher Lodge offers a perfect getaway for almost everyone.

An easy travelling distance from Gauteng to the west, and Nelspruit to the east, makes it easily accessible for those wanting a break from the city life and is also a perfect stopover for longer distance travellers.

With 10 unique chalets we can accommodate singles, couples and parties.

As well as chalets, we offer six stables that have either a double bed or two singles, and 15 camping sites.

The chalets have fantastic views and are fully equipped for self-catering.

The stables each have their own private ablutions and coffee making facilities. Two meals per day in the restaurant are included in the price. Each camping pitch has its own private ablution with shower and washing facilities. Each stand has its own braai and electricity.

The lodge has a fully licensed restaurant and bar which provides meals and snacks for those who wish to take a break from cooking and enjoy top level cuisine.

With three trout dams and a wild dam we offer a perfect fishing opportunity for anglers of all levels. The lodge offers a solar-heated pool and play area which serves well to keep the children happy.

For the more energetic, there are hundreds of kilometres of traffic-free track to either hike or cycle.

Take a walk or a drive to the bottom of the 100m Kingfisher Waterfall and absorb the beautiful scene or take a dip in the waterfall’s rock pool.

At the pool is a communal lapa with a bar that is open during busy periods, a pool table, foosball table and dart boards.

The ever-changing light falling on the dams and the surrounding mountains make perfect photographic opportunities for photographers.

For birders it is a perfect opportunity to study and photograph birds of all kinds.

The lodge, dams, wetlands, surrounding woodlands, mountains and grasslands attract a vast variety of bird species including the rare bald ibis during nesting season, as well as resident breeding fish eagles, lesser moorhen and many more.

To date we have recorded over 150 species of birds including many resident species, many migrant birds who come here to nest, and others just stopping over during their migration.

As well as relaxing and enjoying the onsite facilities, there are a number of nearby attractions where you can pop out for a few hours or spend the whole day.

There is a variety of attractions for all types which include, horse riding almost next door and on site at busy periods (advance booking is advised), paragliding at the nearby Bambi Flying Club, ziplining nearby at Waterval Onder, caving and a dinosaur park at the famous Sudwala Caves which is an easy drive from the lodge.

A Boer War memorial site is close by, including the graves of some who died in  the battles which took place in the surrounding area

There are over 1 200 stone circles along the Mpumalanga escarpment. These circles have been studied by experts who have confirmed them to be the oldest man-made structures on the planet, many years older than the Pyramids and Stonehenge. The circles are believed to be well in excess of 10 000 years old. There are approximately 40 such circles at Kingfisher, including ones that two of the chalets are built inside of.

Although not a game reserve, the lands are home to a vast variety of wildlife.

Many species are nocturnal but can be seen by those who look out for them.

These include many species of antelope, bushbabies and aardvarks.

Summer has arrived in Mbombela, bringing with it long, sun-soaked days and the perfect opportunity to make unforgettable memories.

Whether you’re planning a relaxing retreat or an action-packed getaway, ANEW Resort White River is the ultimate destination to recharge and embrace the spirit of summer.

Located just four hours from Johannesburg, this resort is the ideal escape for couples, families and groups of friends looking for a refreshing break before the year winds down.

Imagine waking up to the warm embrace of the summer sun, ready to dive into a world of exciting activities. At ANEW Resort White River, you’ll find plenty of ways to have fun, unwind and create lasting memories. Thanks to Laser Adventures, you can explore thrilling on-site activities like laser tag, archery and putt-putt.

For something out of the ordinary, why not try a game of giant foosball or dive into a murder mystery team-building experience? Perfect for corporate retreats, these activities are designed to keep the energy high and the fun going strong.

If you’re a foodie, the newly renovated restaurant at the resort is ready to satisfy your cravings. Indulge in a variety of mouth-watering dishes, crafted with local ingredients and a modern twist.

For a more laid-back experience, gather around the boma area with friends or family and enjoy a traditional South African shisanyama under the summer sky, complete with sizzling meats and warm camaraderie.

Treat yourself to the ultimate summer relaxation with a visit to the Pause Spa & Wellness Centre. Let all your stress melt away with the signature ANEW Bliss 90-minute massage, starting with a soothing foot soak and ending with a full-body massage that will leave you feeling revitalised.

If you’re short on time, the Appetizer facial offers a quick refresh, perfect for all skin types. With a wide range of treatments to choose from, you’ll be glowing inside and out, ready to embrace the season with a renewed sense of calm.

For sports enthusiasts, ANEW Resort White River’s world-class sporting facilities are the ideal training grounds. Whether you’re prepping for a big game or looking to maintain your fitness routine, the resort’s fully equipped gym and Fifa-grade soccer pitches provide top-notch facilities that have been praised by the All Blacks National Rugby Team and Bundesliga’s FC Augsburg.

Want to explore beyond the resort? The White River area offers a variety of nearby attractions, including the White River Art Gallery (8.5km), Lowveld National Botanical Garden (14km), Kruger National Park (40km to the Numbi Gate) and Sudwala Caves (53km). Each spot is perfect for a day trip and adds a touch of adventure to your stay.

This summer, treat yourself to the ultimate getaway. Whether you’re looking for relaxation or excitement, ANEW Resort White River has it all.

Book your summer escape today at www.anewhotels.com and don’t forget to sign up for ANEW Rewards for up to 20%* off your stay.

Graskop Gorge Lift Co’s heart-pounding cliff walkway is an epic new adventure perfect for thrill-seekers and nature lovers alike.

Brace yourself as you step onto a narrow walkway high above the lush forest below. This adrenaline-pumping path winds its way around the cliffside, leading to two thrilling suspension bridges that span the gorge and offer breathtaking views.

But the excitement doesn’t stop there – gear up for a zipline ride that takes you to a whole new level of exploration.

Once you catch your breath, continue your adventure on the stunning walkway constructed along the rockface and under the rock overhang. Continue to the viewing lift and descend to the forest floor level.

Enjoy the mystery of the forest while strolling on the 600m elevated boardwalk where suspension bridges cross the Motitsi River and offer views of the waterfall.

Minimum height requirement: 1.2m (4 foot).

www.gglc.co.za

Hazyview is a town well known for its subtropical fruit farms and being an important gateway to the world-famous Kruger National Park.

Hazyview derives its name from the summer haze that envelopes its low-lying areas. An adventure hub, Hazyview is high on the list of towns to visit when coming to the Kruger Lowveld region. The variety of accommodation offerings, restaurants and activities are endless.

What to do in Hazyview;

• River rafting: Hone in on your competitive edge as you battle the mighty Sabie River.
• Quad biking: Have incredible fun exploring rough terrain.
• Archery: See if you can hit the target with a bow and arrow.
• Perry’s Bridge Trading Post: Culinary delights await at Perry’s Bridge with a choice of unique and vibey restaurants.
• Paintball adventures: Team up and have a blast!
• Township tour: A visit to one of nearby townships will leave you with a greater appreciation for our country’s varied cultures.
• Go on a safari: with the Kruger National Park’s Phabeni and Paul Kruger Gates just a stone’s throw away, the Big 5 is closer than you can imagine!
• Zipline: Whizz over indigenous tree tops on an adventurous aerial cable trail.

Among the most loved game parks worldwide, this vast and impressive park is undoubtedly the crown jewel of South Africa.

A popular self-drive destination for locals, the Kruger National Park has numerous public rest stops and a variety of accommodation options. The park also has privately operated luxury lodges, which are a treat.

There are 12 main rest camps, five bushveld camps, two bush lodges and four satellite camps in the Kruger. They all have a different ambiance, and every repeat visitor has their own favourite.

While on safari, many make it their mission to see the Big 5, of which some may be elusive. There are also many other equally fascinating animals, insects and birds that are great to look out for while on safari.

When it comes to daily conservation fees specific to the park, citizens of SADC nations that are parties to a transfrontier agreement or treaty will enjoy the same advantages as South Africans.

For instance, a citizen of Mozambique, Zimbabwe or Botswana travelling to the Kruger National Park or Kgalagadi National Park will be permitted to pay a daily conservation fee equivalent to South African citizens’ (rather than the fee other SADC nationals pay).

Explore:

Wilderness trails

The Kruger’s rugged landscape is perfect for safe one-of-a-kind up-close encounters with big game. Due to the abundance of elephants and rhinos, there is a well-marked network of natural game paths that make for comfortable trails to follow. The trails begins either a Wednesday afternoon to a Saturday morning or a Sunday afternoon to a Wednesday morning and lasts for three nights, with two walking days in between.

Accommodation

Few travellers from South Africa depart without having spent time in the Kruger National Park, which is extremely popular for self-drive visitors. There are 12 main rest camps, five bushveld camps, two bush lodges and four satellite camps in Kruger, which provide an array of accommodation options to suit any budget. From camping to glamping to rustic huts to luxurious chalets, the Kruger has it all!

Isn’t it time you booked your next adventure?

Contact:

+27(0)13 755 1988

+27(0)82 321 6018 (WhatsApp)

info@krugerlowveld.com

Kruger Station is the premier destination for travellers passing through Skukuza in the Kruger National Park.

Combining history, convenience and exceptional dining, it offers an unforgettable experience for everyone – from seasoned safari-goers to first-time visitors.

Located in the heart of the Skukuza Rest Camp, Kruger Station’s historical roots are embedded in the iconic Selati Railway line, which played a significant role in the park’s development. Visitors can explore this rich history through the beautifully restored train station and carriages, as well as our Grand Old Lady on permanent display – the iconic No 3638 steam locomotive.

The heritage of Kruger Station sets it apart as more than just a dining stop – it’s an immersive experience that connects guests with the park’s legacy. With a variety of dining options, Kruger Station boasts a range of choices to satisfy every palate. 3638 Restaurant, a highlight of the station, serves up a variety of dishes, from South African classics to contemporary favourites, all prepared with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Whether you’re craving a wood-fired pizza or something a little more exotic, our diverse menu ensures there’s something for everyone – including a variety of gluten-free and vegetarian options.

Families will find Kruger Station particularly appealing due to its child-friendly offerings. Li’l Gricers offers a dedicated play area where children can burn off energy, while the adults stretch their legs or browse our Curiostiy Cabinet gift shop. You’ll also find clean washroom facilities for visitors’ convenience.

As Skukuza is one of the park’s busiest hubs, the Kruger Station serves as a convenient and scenic pitstop where visitors can grab a meal, stop for a ‘cold one’, pick up some ready-made meals and freshly baked artisanal breads, or just grab a takeaway coffee before hitting the road again!

With its blend of history, comfort and variety, the Kruger Station has truly established itself as the best place to stop in Skukuza, creating memories as rich as the wildlife experiences the park is known for.

After entering the Skukuza Rest Camp, turn right at the circle (at the petrol station) and follow the signs to the jewel in the Lowveld – Kruger Station!

Explore Mpumalanga’s nature reserves for the ultimate wildlife, adventure and scenic beauty experience.

Andover

Andover Nature Reserve is situated approximately 20km southwest of the Kruger National Park’s Orpen Gate. It spans about 7 000ha and is home to zebras, giraffes, kudus, bushbucks, warthogs, steenbok, waterbuck, hippos, blue wildebeests, impalas and duikers. It offers self-catering facilities, self-guided drives, camping and birding.

Barberton’s Makhonjwa Mountains, World Heritage Site

The Barberton Makhonjwa Mountains are South Africa’s 10th World Heritage Site, and the first for Mpumalanga. The site comprises 40% of the Barberton Greenstone Belt, one of the world’s oldest geological structures. It represents the best-preserved succession of volcanic and sedimentary rock dating back 3.25 billion years, when the first continents were starting to form on the primitive Earth. It also features meteor-impact fallback breccias resulting from the impact of meteorites formed just after the Great Bombardment (4.6 to 3.8 billion years ago).

Blyde River Canyon

This is the second most visited attraction in Mpumalanga. It is the third largest canyon in the world and a ‘green canyon’, which is dominated by subtropical vegetation. It includes attractions such as the Three Rondawels, Bourke’s Luck Potholes, God’s Window and the Pinnacle Rock.

There are vast quartzite sandstone cliffs that dominate the landscape, falling away to the depths of the canyon and the Blyderivierpoort Dam below.

This 22 500ha reserve is one of Mpumalanga’s most accessible tourist attractions and is listed in the top 10 ‘must-see’ destinations in South Africa.

Loskop Dam

Loskop Dam Nature Reserve covers an area of 23 612ha and lies around the massive Loskop Dam on the Olifants River, north of Middelburg. The dam has created a natural floodplain, and the scenic valley has been restocked with animals once indigenous to the area. These include eland and other species of antelope, giraffes, zebras, wildebeests and white rhinos.

 

Mahushe Shongwe Nature Reserve

This reserve is located in Malalane. The reserve is small but highly concentrated with various species of acacias alongside the russet bushwillow and tamboti. The seasonal Mzinti River is lined with jackalberry and sycamore fig trees. The reserve is home to the rare impala lily, which is under severe threat though increasing loss of habitat.

Manyeleti Nature Reserve

The reserve shares common open boundaries with the Sabi Sand Game Reserve at Buffelshoek and other private game reserves. Manyeleti Nature Reserve is home to the Big 5. The reserve caters 32 fully furnished self-catering accommodation for both leisure and business tourists. Game drives can be arranged when bookings are made and they can take up to one hour and 30 minutes.

Songimvelo Nature Reserve

It is located south of Barberton in the southeastern part of Mpumalanga on the border between South Africa and the Kingdom of eSwatini. The reserve stretches across a diagonal of 50km from the broad open Komati River Valley in the southwest to the narrow mountainous northeastern apex. It is home to the famous Kromdraai Camp, which has 25 fully furnished self-catering chalets, six-sleepers each. Ideal for hiking, self-drives on the 4×4 trail, day visitor activities and camping.

Contact the Mpumalanga Tourism and Parks Agency:

info@mtpa.co.za/reservations@mtpa.co.za

www.mpumalanga.com

Facebook: Mpumalanga Tourism and Parks Agency

Twitter: @Mtpatourism

Instagram: @mpumalangatourism

Loskopdam, a Forever Resort, is located 48km north of Middelburg within the Loskop Dam Nature Reserve, next to the well-known fisherman’s paradise, Loskop Dam.

The reserve, situated against the Waterberg Mountain range, overlooks  the dam and is host to a large variety of  fish species.

The resort’s lush subtropical and bushveld environment enhances the unique atmosphere of Forever Loskopdam. It
offers a range of activities, namely warm and cold swimming pools, tennis courts,
mini golf, kiddies’ play area, stylish restaurant, convenience store and
scenic boat cruises.

The resort also offers conference facilities for groups of up to 300 delegates. Whether you are having a management workshop, social gathering, family reunion or wedding with stylish decor requirements, our helpful conference co-ordinators will take care of your conferencing needs.

The facilities include an assortment of self-catering units, such as 39 charming log cabins, 23 chalets, eight family houses and one guest house, all serviced daily.

Forever Loskopdam, an angler’s heaven.

The caravan/camping park stretches to the water’s edge and offers 236 stands (210 powered and 26 non-powered), serviced by seven neat ablution facilities. When planning your next breakaway, remember, Forever Loskopdam is a doorstep away to experience the tranquillity of nature and scenic beauty.

The Cultural Heartlands is the ‘Gateway to Mpumalanga’ for those travelling from Gauteng and parts of Limpopo and provides a beautiful introduction to the province.

It includes the towns of eMalahleni (formerly Witbank), Kranspoort, Middelburg, Ogies and Stoffberg, as well as Loskop Dam.

The Cultural Heartlands epitomises the vibrancy and spirit of South Africa’s ‘Rainbow Nation’, with its mix of culture, history, wildlife, industry, agriculture and adventure, all of which have their place in the region and give the Cultural Heartlands its unique appeal.

It is an area characterised by a wonderful mix of rolling Highveld grasslands, mountain bushveld, dams, rivers and temporary pans. These diverse habitats provide homes to a wide selection of South African plants and wildlife, including a number of rare and endangered species like the Woolly Cycad that cannot be found anywhere else in
the world!

Home of the iconic Ndebele people with their striking traditional dress and painted houses, the Cultural Heartlands is also a rich agricultural region, which also plays a crucial role in South Africa’s energy supply with its reserves of coal and impressive power stations.

The region is also a treasure trove of South African history, with many of its towns playing pivotal roles in historical events that have shaped our nation.

So whether it’s the vibrancy and colours of the Ndebele, the rush of adrenaline you get from the region’s abseiling, 4×4, horse riding, skydiving and hiking adventures, a chance to step back in time on a historical tour, perhaps test your nerves on the ghost tour, or simply to enjoy the beauty and tranquillity of the wonderful natural surrounds, the Cultural Heartlands has something for everyone to enjoy.

The beauty of Mpumalanga is the variety of places you can visit, from lush green areas, to adventurous trails and delicious spots to eat – this province really does spoil you with different places to enjoy!

Perhaps one of the most enjoyable things to do if you’re visiting Mpumalanga, is take a trip along the Highveld Heritage Route.

Take a journey with us as we explore this specific route in the Place of the Rising Sun, and all it has to offer!

The Highveld Heritage Route

If you choose to focus on the  Highveld Heritage Route as your next Mpumalanga destination of choice,  you’re in for a fascinating exploration. Not only will your trip be packed with cultural interest and a lot of South Africa history, you will also be spoiled with an air of mystery and of course that much-needed relaxation.

The history of the Highveld
Heritage Route

This special Heritage Route in Mpumalanga is made up of 14 towns, namely: Amersfoort, eMvelo (formerly Amsterdam), Balfour, Breyten, Carolina, Chrissiesmeer, eManzana (formerly Badplaas), Ermelo, Hendrina, Mkhondo (formerly Piet Retief), Morgenzon, Perdekop, Standerton, Val and Wakkerstroom. A large number of these towns were significant in the history of South Africa and how our country came to be. Visiting these towns will give you a great history lesson on South Africa!

Natural attractions on
the route

The highveld’s natural attractions include the Bakoni settlement ruins, geological rock formations and San rock art, as well as South African War (also known as the Second Anglo-Boer War) battle fields and farmlands. Take a trip a little further and you’ll meet up with the Batwa Valley, where you’ll find the
giant mushroom rock, early tools, soot-blackened cave walls and rock art that speaks poignantly of a San people called the Tlou E’Tie, who once lived here before the assegais of the warring Nguni tribes drove them out. Culture and history all rolled into one fascinating adventure!

eMvelo

A small town with some cultural heritage dating back to the 1880s and of Scottish descent, Amsterdam has beautiful, lush green areas and massive plantations of  gum, pine and wattle trees.

So whether it’s a bit of culture and history you’re looking for, or the smell of adventure that has you excited, Mpumalanga’s Highveld Heritage Route is waiting for your visit!

Town highlights on the Highveld

Heritage Route

There are a few wonderful towns to visit as you take your time exploring the Highveld Heritage Route. We’ve summed up a few here that may take your fancy.

Carolina

If you’re heading through the Highveld Heritage Route, a stop off in Carolina is always a good idea. It can be found right next to the Komati Gorge Wildlife Reserve, as well as the Nooitgedacht Nature Reserve. So, if you’re needing a break to get lost in game viewing, birdwatching or some outdoor activities – Carolina is for you.

Anglo-Boer War battlefields on the Highveld Heritage Route

There is so much to be learnt about this time in history, where the two Boer Republics (Orange Free State and the South African Republic) fought against the British Empire over its influence in Southern Africa. The war itself took place from 1899 to 1902. One of the key places to visit would be the Berg-en-Dal Monument – a large portion of the Anglo-Boer war was fought in this region. Taking a tour of the space with a knowledgeable guide is advised to learn the most of this time in history.

Wesselton

A warm welcome from the vibrant community of Wesselton awaits you. Take the opportunity to do a township tour, before enjoying some R & R and chill time at a local shebeen.

Chrissiesmeer

This quaint town will greet you with gorgeous sandstone houses and an abundance of lakes in the region. Chrissiesmeer is in the centre of what is sometimes referred to as the ‘lake district’ of South Africa. In this region you will find over 270 lakes and pans in a 20km radius!

Contact the Mpumalanga Tourism and Parks Agency:

 013 065 0859/0888

info@mtpa.co.za/reservations@mtpa.co.za

www.mpumalanga.com

Facebook: Mpumalanga Tourism and Parks Agency

Twitter: @Mtpatourism

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Die ATKV-Eiland Spa is ’n bosveldoase wat die perfekte mengsel van ontspanning, avontuur en natuurskoon aanbied.

200Of jy na ’n rustige wegkomkans of aksiebelaaide breek smag, hierdie oord is die ideale bestemming om te herlaai, verken en herinneringe te skep.

Familievriendelike pret en ontspanning

Die ATKV-Eiland Spa is gemaak om vir alle ouderdomme te voorsien. Dit bied wêreldklasfasiliteite vir gesinne, paartjies  en avontuurlustiges.

Ons reeks binnenshuise- en buiteswembaddens – insluitende ’n groot verhitte swembad – verskaf pret deur die hele jaar. Die kinders is gek oor die verskeidenheid aktiwiteite, terwyl hulle ouers gerus terug kan sit en weet dat die jongspan vermaak word.

Vir diegene wat aktief wil bly bied die oord tennisbane, vlugbal, ’n gimnasium, ’n waterglybaan en vele ander aktiwiteite aan, asook beeldskone staproetes beide op en om die oord. Daar is werklik iets vir almal.

Gemaklike verblyf vir elke gas

Jou gemak is ATKV-Eiland Spa se prioriteit. Kies vanuit ’n verskeidenheid selfsorgeenhede, van spasieuse gesinchalets tot knus rondawels. Elke eenheid is ontwerp om jou tuiste weg te wees en bied moderne geriewe en prentjiemooi uitsigte.

• Gesinchalets: Ideaal vir groter groepe, toegerus met kombuise, leefareas en braaifasiliteite, perfek vir maaltye saam en gehalte gesinstyd.
• Rondawels: Vir romantiese wegbreke of kleiner groepe, bied ons gemaklike rondawels ’n outydse sjarme met moderne geriewe – ’n intieme wegbreek na rustigheid.

 Aktiwiteite vir alle ouderdomme

Die ATKV-Eiland Spa staan uit met sy diverse aktiwiteite vir elke tipe reisiger. Natuurentoesiaste kan die oorvloed wildlewe en voëlspesies verken, en diegene wat na geörganiseerde pret op soek is kan oor skoolvakansies en langnaweke by die oord se vermaaklikheidsprogramme aansluit, propvol speletjies en tema-aande vir beide kinders en ouers. Verkies jy ontspanning? Ontspan by die swembad of geniet ’n rustige braai onder die sterre.

Ontdek Limpopo van hierdie ideale basis

Die ATKV-Eiland Spa is ideaal geleë om Limpopo se ryk kulturele en natuurlike aanloklikhede te ontdek. Van naby wildreservate tot plaaslike markte en kulturele plekke is daar baie om te ontdek na net ’n kort entjie se ry. Vir diegene wat ’n stadiger pas verkies is die omliggende bos die perfekte agtergrond vir ’n piekniek en rustige wandels.

 Die perfekte venue vir geleenthede

Die ATKV-Eiland Spa is nie net ’n vakansiebestemming nie – dit is ook ’n uitstekende keuse vir konferensies en groepaktiwiteite. Met sy uitstekende fasiliteite en baie aktiwiteite bied ons oord ’n unieke omgewing vir gebeurtenisse om vir altyd te onthou.

Ervaar die ongelooflike

Of jy nou ’n naweekwegbreek of uitgebreide vakansie beplan, die ATKV-Eiland Spa bied die perfekte mengsel avontuur, ontspanning en gesinspret aan. Bespreek jou verblyf vandag en beleef die skoonheid en sjarme van die ATKV-Eiland Spa – waar onvergeetlike herinneringe geskep word.

 Skakel ons

Vir meer inligting of besprekings, skakel ons by 015 386 8000 of eilandspa@atkv.org.za, of besoek www.eilandspa.co.za.