Meander through Mpumalanga

The Greater Kruger

Spanning a mighty 2 million hectares, this quintessential bush adventure is a phenomenon of wildlife that has thrilled visitors for over 100 years. Here, sharp-eyed safari-goers can encounter the ‘Big Five’—comprising the lion, elephant, leopard, buffalo, and endangered rhino—from the comfort of their car, a game drive vehicle, or even on foot.

Keen to move with the pace of nature? In many of the surrounding concessions you can trek through on foot with an expert tracker by your side, expand your knowledge, and learn all about the medicinal use of plants and trees whilst immersed in this ancient wonderland.

The Kruger National Park is located in the Eastern parts of Limpopo and Mpumalanga and can be accessed through numerous routes including the N4 heading towards Nelspruit.

The Panorama Route

The Panorama Route is a fascinating wonder in Mpumalanga joining several cultural and natural points of interest, showcasing some of the province's most iconic checkpoints.

The breathtaking R532 is the most famous stretch of the route, which runs parallel to the Blyde River Canyon Reserve, winding its way from Sabie past a parade of waterfalls. This celebrated excursion is not to be rushed. With stops like God's Window, the Pinnacle, Pilgrim's Rest, Blyde River Canyon as well as the Three Rondavels—blink and you might just miss one of the countless wonders along this route.

Conveniently located near the Kruger National Park, the Panorama Route can be accessed via Long Tom Pass from Lydenburg.

Sudwala Caves

The Sudwala caves near Nelspruit are not only touted as ancient—they hold the title for the oldest-known caves on the planet. They’re said to date back an extraordinary 3 000 million years, rivalling time itself and stretching over 30km in length.

A journey into these magnificent wonders exposes you to a forgotten time, long before dinosaurs roamed the world. Today, within the walls of the Sudwala caves, you'll uncover remnants of an ancient era in the forms of mighty chambers studded with giant stalactites, stalagmites and flowstone formations.

Like a sacred relic on display, the cave chambers are spacious and well-lit, perfect for capturing photos from this trip back in time. For adrenaline seekers, the crystal tour delves deep into the earth's core (2km into the cave) and immerses you in the radiance of twinkling aragonite crystals.

Located just 10 kilometres off the N4 along the R539, look for the sign reading Sudwala to know you’ve arrived at this subterranean destination.

Blyde River Canyon (Motlatse Canyon)

If you're to marvel at the beauty of any location along the Panorama Route, then undoubtedly, it should be that of the Blyde River Canyon.

The Reserve extends along the Blyde River Canyon's winding path and treats you to some of the most striking views, attractions and stops along the way. With its lush subtropical foliage, it's possibly the largest 'green canyon' on the planet and makes for an unforgettable drive through its fantasy-like landscape.

Some of the most extraordinary stops include the Three Rondavels viewpoint, God's Window, Lisbon Falls, Ecco Caves, and the Blyde River Canyon Nature Reserve.

Blyde River Canyon can be accessed along the Panorama route, via Long Tom Pass from Lydenburg.

Sudwala Dinosaur Park

A mere hop and skip away from Nelspruit, the Sudwala Dinosaur Park is situated right next to the Sudwala Caves and makes for a fantastic family stop sure to get the little ones excited. Found in a lush, sub-tropical forest-like setting, monkeys and red-breasted cuckoos can be seen scurrying about as you all stroll along, uncovering life-sized models of these ancient reptilians. Look out for the notorious, yet magnificent T-Rex, the gentle, yet powerful Triceratops and everything in between. The park also flaunts a gorgeous ‘viewing deck’ overlooking the alluring Rainforest Valley. Keep your eyes peeled and you could catch a glimpse of the chacma baboon!

You’ll this gem of a restaurant Sabie Town at the corner of Main and Louis Trichardt.

River rafting with Idle and Wild

After taking a left on the R40, following the N4, you'll discover yet another family favourite. Idle and Wild invites you to embark upon an extraordinary experience along the Sabie River Valley. Traverse these calming waters with the kids, an expert guide and the sound of chirping birds singing through the trees. The adventure lasts about one and a half hours in total, so be sure to splash amongst the waters, and soak up the smiles in this enchanting stop not to be forgotten.

The Wild Fig Tree

Situated in the forestry town of Sabie, The Wild Fig tree is a unique little restaurant that makes for will makes for an ideal lunch or dinner stop. Pop in, find a breezy spot on the balcony, and delve into their delectable menu that is forever changing and introducing you to something fresh.

If you’re in the mood to sample some South African dishes, especially game meat, this really is the best place to go. Take your pick from ostrich kebabs, crocodile, bobotie and potjie stew.

You’ll this gem of a restaurant Sabie Town at the corner of Main and Louis Trichardt.

Graskop

This small yet enchanting little town has long been known for its delectable variety of hearty pancakes, or as the local call them: pannekoek. When tummies start to rumble, opt for a pitstop here and delve into some savoury goodness in between your journey through the Mpumalanga Province. Favourite dining spots include Harrie's Pancakes and Silver Spoon Pancake Place.

Graskop is easy to reach and can be accessed via the R532, R534 and R533 just south of the Blyde River Canyon Nature Reserve.