Mpumalanga Province and the Kruger National Park :

Mpumalanga is often visited simply for its scenic beauty, yet it is also home to the world-renowned Kruger National Park. The flagship of South Africa’s national parks, this two million-hectare reserve offers an unrivalled wildlife experience.

Some lodges bordering the Park are unfenced, allowing for the free movement of wildlife. Most of these lodges offer open 4x4 safari vehicles, sensitive off-road driving, professional game-rangers and night drives. Many of the private lodges feature safaris that emphasise the entire experience of nature for repeat guests and other visitors who want more than sightings of the Big Five. There are a number of small, picturesque country towns in the area, with welcoming country lodges ideal for self-drivers on pre- or post-safari stopovers en route to Johannesburg.

The landscape and cultural attractions in the vicinity are reason enough to spend a few days in the area. There are many scenic drives to highlights such as the Blyde River Canyon, Bourke’s Luck Potholes and God’s Window (the view of the bushveld from this vantage point is breathtaking). Or explore the mountains covered with dense forest, rivers and cascading waterfalls. Places of cultural interest include the old mining town of Pilgrim’s Rest, and the Shangaan Cultural Village near Hazyview, where you can learn about the traditional way of life of the Shangaan people.

Natural Wonders

Begin your exploration of this wonderful region with a stay at Cybele Forest Lodge and Spa - an intimate retreat with individualised accommodation. There are fireplaces for cosy winter nights and some rooms have private gardens and pools. Delicious meals and excellent Cape wines can be savoured in the award-winning candlelit restaurant or in the garden.

Then head off for Singita Private Game Reserve - a magnificent 18 000-hectare reserve overlooking the Sand River. Safaris in open Land Rovers track the Big Five, and you can enjoy spa treatments between safari activities. Enjoy refined cuisine accompanied by the finest South African wines from Singita’s famous cellar.

Next stop is internationally renowned, award-winning Londolozi Private Game Reserve, famed for its excellent leopard sightings and community and conservation initiatives. Nelson Mandela calls Londolozi “the model for the dream I cherish for the future of nature preservation in our country.” Enjoy exceptional accommodation, delicious Pan-African cuisine and service excellence in addition to spectacular Big Five wildlife viewing.

End off your journey with a safari at Singita Lebombo in a remote area of the Kruger National Park. In addition to game-drives and other safari activities, pamper yourself at the spa or simply relax at the pool. Superb cuisine is complemented by fine wines.

Mpumalanga Province and the Kruger National Park : nearby Relais & Chateaux properties