Mpumalanga means “the place where the sun rises” and is one of South Africa’s 9 provinces/regions. It’s a nature and wildlife lover’s dream! To give you ideas on where to spend your time in this beautiful province I have listed some of the best places to visit in Mpumalanga and the best things to do in Mpumalanga.
Map of Mpumalanga, South Africa: Mpumalanga is an inland province bordered by Free State, Gauteng, Limpopo and Kwa-Zulu Natal provinces. It also borders Mozambique and eSwatini.
Places to visit in Mpumalanga, South Africa
Jane Goodall Chimp Eden
This is not a zoo. This is a chimpanzee sanctuary in Nelspruit, South Africa. It was founded by Dr Jane Goodall who is world renowned primatologist who has dedicated her life to the protection of chimpanzees and their habitats.
The Jane Goodall Chimp Eden is home to chimps that were ill treated by humans and cannot adapt to living back in the wild. Some were abused in circuses others were kept as pets. One of the chimps used to be chained outside a nightclub and handed cigarettes and alcohol as entertainment. Each of their stories are so sad.
This sanctuary is a non profit organization. You can show your support by simply visiting the sanctuary and going on an educational tour.
Kruger National Park
The best way to view the Big 5 (lion, buffalo, leopard, rhino and elephant) is by watching them in their natural habitat. You can do this on a game drive/safari through the world famous Kruger National Park. Kruger National Park is the largest game reserve in South Africa and the second largest in Africa.
Will you be one of the 1.4million people who visit Kruger National Park this year? If so, here are 10 helpful tips for your visit to Kruger National Park, South Africa.
Blyde River Canyon
Blyde River Canyon is always high on my recommendations to anyone visiting South Africa. It is the 3rd largest canyon in the world and one of the most beautiful sights in the country.
Make sure to include a stop at Blyde River Canyon while exploring the Panorama Route in Mpumalanga.
Related post: Explore the Panorama Route in One Day
God's window
If you enjoy being in nature and appreciate views that go on and on, you will love God’s Window.
This view point over the is. There is also a lush rainforest to explore so dress comfortably and save enough time. Make sure to check the weather forecast before you go so that your view isn’t blocked by clouds.
Sudwala Caves
Did you know that Sudwala Caves are the oldest caves in the world? In the world! When I learnt this, I was glad to have another fascinating fact to show off with about Mpumalanga.
It’s dark and eery inside the cave and the cool, damp air is a nice relief from the heat outside. When you visit, a knowledgeable guide will walk you through the cave and educate you about the history of the caves. The tour takes about 1 hour and is a calm and easy walk suitable for all ages. A tour through Sudwala Caves is one of the most unique things to do in Mpumalanga.
After completing the tour, I suggest relaxing at the fish spa on the premises. You heard me right – a fish spa! This entails putting your feet in shallow water to allow the small Garra Rufa fish to nibble on the dirt and dead skin on your feet. It is a ticklish sensation!
To make this experience better, you have the most incredible view while sitting there.
Tip: Wear clothing that is easy to raise above your knees. For hygiene purposes, it is required that you use their washing area to clean your legs before accessing the fish spa. It’s easier to do this prep in clothing that you can simply roll up.
Bourke's Luck Potholes
Another one of the best places to visit in Mpumalanga are these naturally formed rock formations. View them from elevated walkways and take take a dip in the shallow pools.
Lone Creek Falls
Lone Creek Falls is one of many waterfalls along the Panorama Route in Mpumalanga. You are able to get really close and even into the water here.
Walking towards Lone Creek Falls felt like walking through a scene of King Kong as the dense plants and trees lean into the walk way. You hear the waterfall and feel it’s spray before you can see it. And when you see it, it’s hard not to take a moment standing there, staring and smiling. Nature is so refreshing.
Induna Adventures
If you are looking for adventure activities in Mpumalanga checkout Induna Adventures. They offer a range of outdoor activities such as quad biking, archery and ziplining.
The last time I visited, I opted for river rafting in Sabie River. Before getting into the river, we were given a demonstration of how to manoeuvre the boat using our paddles. Two people fit in each boat. The person at the back is responsible for steering but both are required to paddle.
I must admit that my boat did get stuck a few times but we never fell out of our boat – I’m proud of that! I had so much fun river rafting and especially enjoyed the moments of dodging rocks and speeding up whenever there was a dip in the river.
Potluck Boskombuis
Next on the list of best places to visit in Mpumalanga is Potluck Boskombuis. This is a fantastic restaurant in the bush, along the Treur River that serves South African dishes featuring game meat. I ordered warthog boerewors with pap and was very happy with my meal. Enjoy a meal at this unique outdoor kitchen while exploring the Panorama Route.
Unfortunately, Potluck Boskombuis have permanently closed. You can now enjoy their meals at Café M in Graskop town instead.
Read similar posts about other South African Provinces:
Places to visit in Eastern Cape, South Africa
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This is a downloadable resource which includes the best places to visit in all 9 South African provinces.
Couple birthday celebration in Mpumalanga