Mpumalanga, ‘the place where the sun rises’, may be lacking in size but undoubtedly makes up for this slight shortcoming with its numerous natural wonders and superb wildlife. Home to treasures such as the Blyde River Canyon and the Drakensberg mountains, Mpumalanga draws photographers and nature-lovers alike. 

Its rivers, once panned for gold, now attract anglers hoping to catch trout. Fluff out your tail feathers and enjoy the province’s spectacular bird-watching, horse-riding, fishing, abseiling and white-water rafting opportunities. This is big game country, with the Kruger National Park taking centre stage. The reserve boasts 2 million hectares of unspoilt bush and is home to an unsurpassed array of wildlife, including the Big 5. The surrounding reserves share the park’s prolific animal population and are home to unique adventures such as elephant-back safaris.

Pioneers, hunters, and fortune-seekers are laced into the history of the land. Swim in the pools of the Mac Mac Falls, a detour beyond the gold rush town of Pilgrim’s Rest. The Blyde River Canyon’s river flows silently beneath the watchful eyes of the Three Sisters’ dolomite spirals. God’s Window promises a panoramic view of the Lowveld from the verge of a 900m drop. Dramatic stalactites and stalagmites adorn the Sudwala Caves, dating back 200 million years. 

Mpumalanga Highlights

  • The Kruger National Park boasts 2 million hectares of unspoilt African bush, home to an unsurpassed array of wildlife, including the Big 5
  • Swim in the crystalline pools of the Mac Mac Falls, a detour beyond the gold rush town of Pilgrim’s Rest
  • God’s Window offers a panoramic view into the forest-clad ravine of the Lowveld 900m below
  • Dramatic stalactites and stalagmites sprout in the Sudwala Caves that date back 2,000 million years

Best time to go
Mpumalanga

  • Jan
  • Feb
  • Mar
  • Apr
  • May
  • Jun
  • Jul
  • Aug
  • Sep
  • Oct
  • Nov
  • Dec

Frequently Asked Questions

We've taken the liberty to answer everything you may need to know about visiting Mpumalanga

  • Winter (May–September) offers optimal safari conditions, while summer brings newborn wildlife and dramatic landscapes. Timing is tailored to your interests.

  • Major international gateways include Johannesburg (O.R. Tambo), Cape Town, and Durban. From Johannesburg, charter flights reach private lodge airstrips in around 90 minutes, avoiding long road transfers. Light aircraft require soft bags and minimal luggage (a small trade-off for time and comfort).
    Self-driving is possible on well-maintained roads, but most luxury travellers prefer private transfers or flights after long-haul journeys.

  •  Sabi Sand for leopards, Timbavati for value, Eastern Cape for malaria-free travel. The “best” safari depends on your priorities.

  • Where you stay shapes your safari, so we match accommodation to your travel style – from honeymoons and family trips to conservation-led escapes.

    We generally prioritise private concessions for their exclusivity and conservation impact. Top choices include Sabi Sand Game Reserve (leopards and high-end lodges), Timbavati (excellent Big 5 value), Madikwe & Pilanesberg (malaria-free), and Tswalu (desert luxury with a strong conservation focus).

    Our Travel Experts recommend the right lodge for your priorities, whether that’s photography, romance, family ease, or purpose-driven travel.

  • Private concession safaris range from $500–$2,500 per person per night, depending on exclusivity and season. Our curated journeys typically start around $1,700, including meals, activities, and drinks.

    We recommend at least three nights in any safari location to move beyond sightings into understanding behaviour and rhythm.

  • With proper planning and expert guidance, South Africa is safe to travel. Private lodges maintain high security standards, and our locally based team provides real-time advice.

  • Yes, particularly along routes like the Garden Route. However, many guests prefer guided transfers or flights for comfort and efficiency.