Lowveld, South Africa

Viewed 1 time

Created by Naine (NADINEMAT)

Nelspruit, also called Mbombela, is the provincial capital of Mpumalanga Province in South Africa. Nelspruit is considered to be the gateway to Mpumalanga as well as the gateway to the Kruger National Park – so think Big 5, safari adventures, bushveld and the big outdoors. The city is situated in the Crocodile River valley surrounded by lush plantations and magnificent scenery, making for spectacular drives. Nelspruit is an exciting, thriving city in the heart of the Lowveld.

Nelspruit, South Africa

Day 1 - Explore Nelspruit

Start the day off strolling through the incredible Lowveld Botanical Gardens. The Crocidile and Nels Rivers converge in the Garden and spectacular waterfalls can be viewed at the Cascades and the Nels viewpoints. The Garden is also home to the world’s first man-made rainforest and the famous Baobab Tree. Enjoy something to eat at the restaurant or tea garden at the venue. You can even order a packed picnic to enjoy in the garden. On a hot summer afternoon you can cool off at the pools and water attractions at Mafunyane Riverside Water Park located nearby the Garden. Stop by the Sun International Emnotweni Casino and Riverside Mall. Experience the casino or watch the latest movies at the Emnotweni cinemas. Enjoy some of the best shows and entertainment in Nelspruit, have a delicious meal at one of the restaurants or pop into Riverside Mall to do some shopping. You can also take the kids to the games arcade at the mall.

Nelspruit, South Africa

Day 2 - Sudwala Caves & Nearby Attractions

Explore the Sudwala Caves, the oldest caves on earth! You will be able to view the oldest dolomite chamber in the world and the crystal chamber. Also visit the The Butterfly Dome and The Unity Labyrinth. The Fish Spa pedicures provide a fun and unusual way for you to clean and exfoliate your skin. Enjoy great coffee and delicious light meals in the tranquil setting of the “Restaurant at Sudwala". Just next door to the caves you will find the Sudwala Dinosaur Park where you can expect to learn about the world’s biggest prehistoric reptiles in an outdoor setting. Also on display are live Nile Crocodiles, perfectly adapted to survival and not much has changed from their ancient relatives. If you are feeling energetic you can hike "Walk of the Ancients" trail where you will be able to view early ruins and stone works.

sudwala caves and dinosaur park, Nelspruit, South Africa

Day 3 - Day Trip to the Kruger National Park

The Malelane Gate is the closest gate to Nelspruit (66km) but you can also enter the park via the Phabeni Gate near Hazyview, which is just over an hour drive from Nelspruit. Considering the vast size of the Kruger Park you will not be able to explore the entire park in a day, but entering the park via either of the above gates will allow the opportunity to explore the southern part of the park. All the main rest camps have day visitor areas. There are also many picnic spots and other visitor get out points distributed throughout the park. From the Phabeni Gate you can make your way to Skukuza, which is the Kruger National Park's largest rest camp and administrative headquarters. It is situated on the southern banks of the Sabie River. When you drive through Malelane Gate, you will be entering the core original reserve. Many guided game drives begin and end at the gates so you don't have to navigate the area on your own.

Skukuza Rest Camp, Kruger National Park, Kruger National Park, Skukuza, 1350, South Africa

Back to the top

© Copyright Lyfshort Pty Ltd