Mpumalanga is home to one of South Africa’s most famous destinations, the flagship Kruger National Park, but it is also host to a world of amazing adventures for all ages.
If you and your family want to escape to the bushveld and enjoy all the natural attractions of our home country, Kruger offers unparalleled wildlife experiences. But if the idea of many hours on a self drive through Kruger doesn't appeal to all ages of the family, then here are failproof adventures to make the best road trip for everyone.
READ: Plan the Ultimate Bush Break
The Ultimate Top Things to Do
The Panorama Route is amazing for it's incredible route through Mpumalanga, and any South African family photo album should include snaps from a these iconic destinations: from the dusty roads of Game Spotting in Kruger; to plunging into the pools at the base of a waterfall... all the way to the lofty heights of the countries longest zipline... this is a province perfect to explore.
EXPLORE: Latest Getaways in the area
1. Spot the Big 5
The most popular routes are in the South of Kruger National Park- which means there can be more traffic on the road. Travelling with younger kids under 6? Bring entertainment for them in the car as a drive along the dusty roads of Kruger offers no guarantees of Wildlife viewing, and there can be traffic in the main road sections. If the idea of self drive sounds too distracting, there are also morning or afternoon game drives that leave from the various gates, which can offer better game viewing prospects as the guides know the park so well. Check the age restrictions though as a lot only take from 8 years and up. Paul Kruger gate visit the day before allows you to see all the local operators and book for the next day (some even collect from your accommodation. Otherwise you can also book reviewed operators listed on Viator.
Otherwise choose to explore an alternate reserve to Kruger & pick one of the Top 5 Reserves in Mpumalanga instead
2. Drive the Waterfall Route (or just pick one)
Did you know, there are more waterfalls in the Sabie region of this province than anywhere else in South Africa? The top 3 waterfalls worth visiting: Berlin Falls; Lisbon Falls and Macmac Falls for very different reasons. All charge a small entrance cost per person and no card machines so make sure you do have enough change (R15 per waterfall at present)
Berlin Falls 10m shorter than Lisbon Falls, at only 80m, these falls are interesting as the waterfall drops into an almost circular pool that looks almost green from above.
Lisbon Falls have their own parking lot (with the usual curio stands) and the walk along a gravel path of about 100m to the 2 viewing spots. They are made up of a few smaller pools but the falls themselves are 94m in totality. In Summer the falls are bigger due to the rainfall, but in Winter they are still spectacular. Early morning is the best time to enjoy the tranquillity of the space... Lisbon Falls are best for a short hike to the bottom of the falls. The path to the bottom is on the left of the viewing area, it is a little steep in parts, if you are travelling with little kids, but if they are older it really is worth the effort.
Getting there: Secret Getaway Google Map to see where all the waterfalls are situated & plan your route.
Photographers tip: Travel North along the route away from Graskop for the best viewing of the landmarks such as Three Rondavels, Ronawels etc, and in the morning view the waterfalls for best photographic conditions & lighting.
The bottom two markers are for Horseshoe Falls and Lone Creek Falls but if you only have time for a 2 or 3 falls these 3 are ideal for vantage points & picnic spots
MacMac Falls offer the best viewing platform - which makes it the most popular on the route, so it can get busy, but as with Lisbon Falls they too have pools at the base which are easier to get to and offer a nice splash around on an afternoon.
3. Go underground & explore Sudwala Caves
2000m underground is an incredible experience to enjoy a geological wonder... but there is also so much more to do here now with ziplining and a free butterfly world to explore. For the very adventurous there is a 6km Underground Crystal Cave Tour perfect for family groups of 6 are possible (Max 15) to the inner caves, but unfortunately only kids over 14 and there is some crawling and scrambling so everyone needs to be of average agility at least (and not claustrophobic!) You can book in advance and the tour takes about 2 hours.
If you go:
To book a time and tour you can email: [email protected].
Time of arrival at the cave entrance for groups is 9.30 am in time for departure into the cave at 10 am.
Website: https://sudwalacaves.com/
4. Hike to God's Window
Hike up to God's Window in the Blyde River Canyon, the third largest canyon in the world. It is an easy day hike for all ages through gorgeous flora & epic views at the top await showing all the Lowveld spread out like a picnic blanket! There is a 900m drop at the edge of the escarpment into the lush forest which is home to reportedly over 1000 different plant species from cycads, to proteas and lilies! It can get hot and humid so make sure you do bring water along.
If you go:
It is R10 per person, easily marked path that is a steep stepped footpath that takes you up to the main viewing point (there are a couple though, so keep your eyes open for alternate less crowded options as well)
Or if you prefer hikes that are more off the beaten track there are a treasure trove of recommended routes in the area on the Sabie.co.za website.
Side note, after so much grand splendour, there is a secret spot worth taking a brief stop at for a selfie...please bear in mind there are no toilets or facilities etc, and it can be hard to spot, if you don't follow the signs to Natural Bridge... a small waterworn bridge carved into the rock by the Macmac River.
If you go:
The parking area is 2.3 km from Graskop along the R532 road towards Sabie / Pilgrim's Rest or use the Google Map link
5. Take the Plunge at the Graskop Gorge
Zipline, bridge swing, suspension bridge & the famous Graskop Lift. If you have a head for heights & love adventure, this is a perfect spot to spend all day! If you are not, but have to keep family members who are company, there is also a lovely restaurant; Local Brewery and craft centre that is perfect to while away the time!
If you go:
Website to book & plan all the activities online: www.graskopgorgeliftcompany.co.za
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