Mpumalanga, which means “Place of the Rising Sun,” was officially named in 1993 and holds a significant place in South Africa’s history. This province offers a breathtaking mix of historical landmarks, scenic beauty, and abundant wildlife, making it one of the country’s most popular tourist destinations. A trip to South Africa would be incomplete without exploring the wonders of Mpumalanga, and for visitors staying at OppiDam near Badplaas, many of these attractions are within easy reach.
For adventure seekers, the Sabie River Valley is a must-visit destination, offering activities such as quad biking, horseback riding, paintball, and archery. However, the highlight of the region is white-water rafting. Induna Adventures, based near Hazyview, provides guided trips down Grade 2 and 3 rapids in rubber inflatables. This thrilling experience, available from October to March, combines adrenaline-pumping rapids with serene moments to admire the surrounding forest landscape.
A stunning geological formation created by centuries of water erosion, Bourke’s Luck Potholes feature deep cylindrical rock pools and cascading waterfalls. The Black Reef quartzite has been worn away by swirling pebbles, creating breathtaking patterns and colours. Visitors can walk across the dark rocks, dip their toes in the cool waters, and admire the falls from observation bridges. At the entrance, local vendors sell handmade crafts, and a small museum provides historical insights into the region.
As the world’s third-largest canyon, Blyde River Canyon is a spectacular natural wonder stretching 16 kilometres and reaching depths of 745 metres. It is part of the majestic Drakensberg escarpment, and over time, erosion has sculpted fascinating rock formations. Key viewpoints include God’s Window, the Three Rondavels, and Bourke’s Luck Potholes. For adventure lovers, Blyde River Safaris offers hiking, rappelling, and even hot air balloon rides over this breathtaking landscape.
The Sudwala Caves, estimated to be over 240 million years old, are among the oldest cave systems in the world. A guided tour takes visitors 150 metres below the surface to admire illuminated stalactites and stalagmites while learning about the caves’ fascinating history. Keep an eye out for horseshoe bats and Stone Age artefacts displayed at the entrance. Located just 30 minutes from Nelspruit, the caves are open daily for exploration.
No visit to Mpumalanga is complete without a safari at the renowned Kruger National Park. Established in 1898 to protect wildlife, the park spans both Limpopo and Mpumalanga provinces. It is home to the Big Five, including both rhino species, as well as 142 other mammal species and over 500 bird species. Visitors can enjoy guided game drives, self-drive safaris, and accommodations ranging from budget campsites to luxury lodges.
Founded in 1883 during the gold rush, the historic town of Barberton was once a bustling hub with its own railroad and stock market. Today, visitors can tour the Barberton Museum to relive the excitement of the era and follow the Heritage Walk, which features historical buildings, a steam locomotive, and sites significant to the gold mining industry.
Located in Nelspruit, the Lowveld National Botanical Garden covers 159 hectares of rugged, rocky river landscapes. Home to approximately 600 indigenous plant species and 2,000 imported plants, the garden offers a tranquil escape for nature lovers. Towering trees dominate the landscape, including over 650 species native to South Africa. The unique Sour Lowveld Bushveld vegetation creates a stunning transition between the Lowveld and the escarpment.
Chimp Eden, South Africa’s only chimpanzee sanctuary, is located 20 minutes south of Nelspruit within the Umhloti Nature Reserve. Operated by the Jane Goodall Institute, the sanctuary provides a haven for chimpanzees rescued from poaching and the illegal pet trade. Visitors can observe these fascinating primates in semi-wild enclosures and learn about conservation efforts.
Graskop Gorge, located south of the Blyde River Canyon Nature Reserve, is an adventure hotspot. The Graskop Gorge Lift Company offers exhilarating attractions, including the world’s highest cable gorge swing, which drops 70 metres in just three seconds. Visitors can also take a scenic 50 metre descent in a glass-fronted viewing lift or cross the gorge on a high wire zip line.
For another thrilling experience, head to Skyway Trails in Hazyview. This attraction features Mpumalanga’s longest aerial cable route, consisting of eight zip lines that offer breathtaking views of the forest canopy. Alternatively, the Tree Top Challenge presents a raised obstacle course with 19 activities, catering to visitors of all ages. Skyway Trails is open daily from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., except on Christmas and New Year’s Day.
Whether you seek adventure, history, or nature, Mpumalanga offers an incredible array of experiences. From wildlife safaris and ancient caves to thrilling outdoor activities and cultural landmarks, this province has something for every traveller.
For those staying at OppiDam near Badplaas, these attractions are just a short journey away, making it the perfect base for exploring the wonders of Mpumalanga. You can return to OppiDam after your excursion and relax next to the tranquil waters of the Vygeboom Dam.
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