Mpumalanga Magic
It is a province offering some incredible experiences and some jaw dropping views.
Most people around the world are familiar with this area for our famed Kruger National Park (shared with Limpopo province).
This is South Africa’s largest game reserve which offers exceptional game viewing and leaves people longing for more. Alongside is the well-known Sabi Sands Private reserve which is home to some of our country’s most well-known and luxurious bush lodges. Names like Londolozi, Singita, &Beyond’s Ngala & Kirkmans Camp, Lion Sands, Leopard Hills and Nottens come to mind, but there are many more…
Sabi Sands is said to have some of the best big cat viewing in South Africa and I can attest to that fact. Some of my best cat sightings have been in this area.
This wilderness area has increased hugely in recent years as fences have been dropped between Kruger National Park and several neighbouring private reserves - Sabi Sands, Timbavarti (Kings Camp and Avoca Bush Camp my favourites here), Klaserie (Africa on Foot & nThambo Tree Camp) , Thornybush (Royal Malewane, Jacalberry Lodge for example), Bulele (Chacma Camp and Ezulwini Lodges) along some other smaller reserves to create the Greater Kruger National Park.
As a result, the animals are free to roam as they wish. This results in a much healthier ecosystem that benefits not only the fauna and flora, but visitors alike.
However, the province is not just all about the wildlife, as spectacular as it is! I really encourage visitors to combine their safari holiday with a few more days to explore the area. Self-drive would be the best option of getting around and discovering more of its beauty.
The Panorama route is beautiful with lots of places to discover. From the small towns of Sabie, Graskop and Pilgrims Rest where local arts & curios can be found to the awe inspiring Blyde River Canyon, one of the largest “green canyons” in the world with its tropical foliage, this area is worth exploring. The canyon is certainly a highlight and you can take a boat trip across the Blyderivierpoort Dam and marvel at the vast cliffs towering above you. As part of the canyon, popular stops on the route afford views of the Three Rondavels and God’s Window. You can also view the unusual geological feature known as Bourke’s Luck Potholes from the walkways above. This area is well known for numerous waterfalls – Mac Mac Falls and Kadishi Tufa. It is truly all a feast for the eyes.
If fishing is your passion, venture into the fly fishing meccas of Dullstroom and Lydenburg, Here trout fishing is exceptional with Rainbows trout being the most popular quarry, but Browns are taken from time to time.
Whilst exploring the region, why not take a quick day trip into neighbouring Kingdom of Eswatini (formerly Swaziland)?
Just make sure you have your passport with you as it is an international border and South African children under 18 years will also require their unabridged birth certificates! I would especially recommend it for those interested in the high-quality crafts found in this region, namely Ngwenya Glass and Swazi Candles to name just 2 of the well-known centres you can visit.
Give Mpumalanga a thought for your holiday. I can assure you; she won’t disappoint! If you would like any more information then please get in touch with me.