Top 6 Traveller Things to do in Mpumalanga

Exciting Traveller Things to Do in Mpumalanga, South Africa 

Mpumalanga makes for a stunning backdrop bordering Eswatini and Mozambique, and is home to some of South Africa’s most fertile farmland and wildlife. Every year, travellers from across the world, especially from South Africa, make a pit stop to see the province’s most visited sights and attractions. There are plenty of budget-friendly things to do, whether you’re travelling as a couple or with the family.

From friendly interactions with locals to wildlife encounters and packing essentials, Mpumalanga (if you haven’t visited yet)  should be on your bucket list.  This guide is designed to help you plan your next trip with ease as you get to know the province’s multicultural and geographically diverse nature.  

What is Mpumalanga Known For?

There’s one place in particular that most visitors will know the province well for, and that's legendary by its own name, amongst other wonderful attractions and sights. 

Here are some of the well-known features that stand out to travellers: 

1. Mpumalanga translates to “place where the sun rises” in isiSwati and isiZulu.
2. Home to the famous Kruger National Park (One of the world’s largest game reserves and home to the Big Five)
3. Population of 5 million inhabitants, diverse in languages such as siSwati, Isizulu, Tsonga, Sepedi, and IsiNdebele. 
4. Incredible scenery and geological wonders, such as waterfalls and caves. 
5. An industry-driven province known for its farming, forestry, and mining.
6. Boasts a rich history in mining gold and dinosaurs. 

Where is Mpumlanga Province? 

Formally known as the Eastern Transvaal (1994), Mpumalanga province is situated in the northeastern part of Southern Africa, bordering Limpopo to the north, Eswatini (Swaziland) and Mozambique to the east, with Gauteng positioned to the West.

There are several travel options available: flight, bus, or car. Whichever one you choose comes down to preference or budget. 

Mpumalanga Map

Travellers can use Google Maps in and around Mpumalanga, or refer to local site maps that outline major towns, attractions, and accommodation, from provincial to regional.  You can find and download the assigned tourist map in PDF format: 

Download Map here.

How Far is Mpumalanga From Johannesburg? 

How far is Mpumalanga from Johannesburg? Well, it depends on your mode of transportation. We’ll provide travel options so you can decide on what route works best. 

Flight

You’d arrive at Kruger International Airport, located north-east of the capital city of Nelspruit (or Mbombela). This travel option is widely used by travellers whose itineraries include a visit to Kruger National Park and/or need a car rental throughout their trip.

• The total flight time is around 1 hour. You can fly with Airlink, FlySafair, or Fastjet. 
• The drive from the airport to the Skukuza Park entrance is roughly 2 hours (with moderate traffic). Check out the airport here: KMI Airport 

Car

It can take up to 5 hours (without traffic) if you’re driving from O.R Tambo (Johannesburg) International Airport to the capital city of Mpumalanga. 

• Depending on the plaza, one-way tolls could cost you roughly R244 (or more) in fees for light passenger vehicles (class 1). 
• There are tolls along the way. Read all about them here: South Africa’s Toll Roads Guide and SANRAL’s toll fees Increase. 

Bus

• If you’ve chosen to travel by bus, you could be looking at a journey of roughly between 5h30 and 6h10 on the road without traffic. 
• The price of the journey will vary depending on the transport company, the number of passengers you’re paying for, and the timing of your trip.

Mpumalanga Weather 

Much like the rest of inland South Africa, Mpumalanga’s weather can be very kind to visitors year-round.

• Summer, from November to March, typically brings in hot, humid, and very rainy conditions, with late-afternoon thunderstorms. Daytime temperatures can range from an average high of 25 °C to temperatures exceeding 30°C.
• In Winter, from May to August, visitors can enjoy comfortable daytime temperatures and sunny skies, perfect for wildlife game drives. It’s not until the evening and the mornings that it becomes very chilly, especially in the frost-prone highveld areas. 

Traveller Experiences: 10 Things to See in Mpumalanga 

From family-friendly activities and sights to historical moments and exploration, visiting this province is like stepping back in time.  Let’s just say you won’t be left guessing on what there is to do on any given day. 

Depending on how adventurous you feel and the season you choose, you can narrow down your activity list by noting the following spots:

1. Embrace the Blyde River Canyon by foot, boat or hot air balloon. 
2. Take a dip at the natural waterfall site of Mac Mac Pools.
3. View wildlife and grab a bite at the Kruger National Park.
4. Explore the 240-million-year-old Sudwala Caves and Dinosaur Park like a historian
5. Enjoy an educational boat cruise on the panorama route, which includes sights to God’s Window, Lisbon Falls, and the famous Three Rondavels. 
6. Take a 70-meter free-fall zipline or swing across the Graskop Gorge. 
7. Experience culture at its best at the Matsamo Cultural Village. 
8. Make a scenic stop at Bourkes Luck Potholes.
9. Explore Jane Goodall's Chimpanzee Eden Sanctuary for the day.
10. Take family and friends to Anvil’s Ale Brewery for some fun beer tasting. 

If you also want to know more about cuisine, find all the details here: Places to eat / the best restaurants in Mpumalanga.

Car Essentials to Remember 

If you are driving straight from Johannesburg or elsewhere, here are a few things you should always keep with you on road trips: 

• Phone cord, powerbank, flashlight, extra jersey or blanket, wet wipes, snacks and water, warning triangle, spare tyre and jack, appropriate seats and restraints for children and car seats for pets, First-Aid Kit, high-visibility vest, sunglasses, paper towels, spare cash, and more. 
• Find all the items you need to ensure a safe and comfortable road trip here: Car essentials to keep in your car. 
• More importantly, if you are travelling with family and have children, please do not leave your kids in a hot car. This is specifically for the worst-case scenario. 
• Here’s what you need to do if that happens, especially if you’re travelling in the hot months: How to protect children from the dangers of a hot car. 

The Bottom Line 

Whether you’re travelling on a short break or visiting from overseas, Mpumalanga has some of the country’s best attractions to boast about. Take a car or take a flight and indulge in some of the best trails and adventures.  Be prepared, consider costs, and run through your trip checklist to ensure a smooth trip. 

Just remember, if you’re taking your vehicle, prepare your wheels in advance. You can do this by taking it for its regular car service and doing the checkups and maintenance at home.