Kruger National Park is South Africa’s largest and most iconic wildlife reserve, covering nearly 2 million hectares along the Mozambique border. Stretching 352 kilometres from north to south, it offers the chance to spot the Big Five and a wide variety of other animals in their natural surroundings.
Visitors can explore independently or join guided drives for expert insights. With the highest concentration of wildlife species in Africa, Kruger is ideal for nature lovers. Located nearby, Nkomazi Kruger Lodge is 19 km from Malelane Gate, while Paradise Creek Lodge is just 5 km away—both offering quick access to the park.
The Panorama Route offers a dramatic journey through the Mpumalanga highlands and along the slopes of the Drakensberg mountains. Following the R532 from Sabie, travellers pass a series of beautiful waterfalls such as Berlin Falls, Lisbon Falls, and Mac Mac Falls. Key highlights include Bourke’s Luck Potholes, the Blyde River Canyon, the Three Rondavels, and the scenic viewpoint at God’s Window.
The route’s changing altitudes reveal spectacular views over the Lowveld, making it a favourite for photographers and road-trippers. With so many iconic stops, the Panorama Route is an ideal day trip packed with natural wonders.
Situated near Nelspruit, the Lowveld National Botanical Garden spans 159 hectares and highlights the diverse plant life of the region. It features over 600 native species and more than 2,000 introduced varieties, creating an extensive and colourful collection.
The garden is shaped by two rivers—the Crocodile and the Nels—that merge within its boundaries, forming waterfalls visible from several viewpoints. Geological formations along the riverbanks appear during dry seasons, offering another layer of interest. Whether you're walking the trails or relaxing at the lookouts, this garden provides a rewarding mix of nature, learning, and scenery.
The Barberton Makhonjwa Geotrail takes visitors through one of the oldest and best-preserved geological records on Earth, with rock formations dating back 3.2 billion years. The trail stretches across several scenic stops, including the Lebombo Viewpoint, located 25 km along the route. Here, travellers can enjoy wide-reaching views and distinctive landscapes shaped by ancient volcanic and sedimentary processes.
While the route lacks mobile reception and facilities, it’s a unique drive for those curious about Earth’s early history. Just 2 km from the border, visitors with passports can also explore Swaziland’s mining museum for added historical insight.
Located 25 kilometres from Nelspruit, Kaapsehoop is a small historic village known for its dramatic scenery and open landscapes. Visitors can walk along misty trails, take in waterfalls and cliffs, and discover remnants of its gold mining past.
One of Kaapsehoop’s standout features is its population of wild horses—around 200 Boerperds roam freely across 17,000 hectares of surrounding land. These horses, cared for by the local community, are often seen in groups across the hillsides and forested areas. Their presence gives Kaapsehoop a distinctive charm, offering a rare chance to observe free-roaming horses in South Africa.
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