MPUMALANGA
Kaapsehoop
Kaapsehoop is a town in the Mpumalanga province of South Africa. It is situated 1486 m above sea level on the Highveld escarpment, about 25 km from Nelspruit, the capital of Mpumalanga. The name of the town is no doubt derived from the fact that when gold was discovered in the town, the find created hope for the early inhabitants of the geographically nearby De Kaap Valley – of attaining great wealth. Kaapsehoop is set out between large natural clearings in the rock fields near the top of the escarpment overlooking the lush De Kaap Valley situated some 800 metres below, with distant views towards Barberton and Nelspruit. Kaapsehoop originally gained fame as a gold mining town once known as the Duiwels Kantoor – the Devil's Office – towards the end of the 19th century, when gold was discovered in 1882 in a small creek running through the town. This led to portion of the original township layout being canceled and opened up for gold diggings. However, the earlier better paying discoveries of gold at both Pilgrim's Rest in 1873 and Barberton in 1881, followed by the discovery of gold on the Witwatersrand in 1886, coupled with the meager returns obtained at Kaapsche Hoop led to the town going into decline. The town has been "re-discovered" in recent time and has now become a popular weekend retreat with its period housing including accommodation establishments. New housing (some not period) has also been established on some of the remaining vacant stands. The rock field formations near the town are made up of quartzites of the Black Reef Formation of the Transvaal Supergroup.
Extracted from: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kaapsehoop
The Wild Horses of the Kaapsehoop Escarpment
The Kaapsehoop area offers exceptionally beautiful landscapes, complete with gushing waterfalls, indigenous forests and rugged hillsides. There are many fables as to the origin of the Kaapsehoop wild horses. During the more than 100 years that these stunning horses have roamed the area, stories have changed and been embellished on until no-one really knows what is truth and what is fiction. Whatever their origin, up to 200 feral horses enjoy the freedom of the 17,000 hectares around Kaapsehoop and are loyally protected by locals. The breed of the horses seems to be predominantly Boerperd and herd sizes range from small bachelor herds of 3 or 4, to structured herds of more than 20 horses.
From far and wide people come to see the wild horses of Kaapsehoop. And though they find some wandering through the village, those herds are merely a fraction of the population. For the true wild horses along the escarpment are as elusive as the gold once found in this region; their origin as vague as the outline of the mountains when the mist rolls over the plains. For decades they have roamed the Kaapsehoop escarpment. They are a legacy of splendour, a legacy to preserve.
Extracted from: http://www.kaapsehoopwildhorses.co.za/
accommodation
Kaapsehoop Horse Trailers
Kaapsehoop Horse Trails is a well-known and idyllic hideaway on the Drakensberg escarpment, 35km from Nelspruit, Mpumalanga. With 26 years of trail riding experience, well-trained cross-bred horses, english or western type saddles you will enjoy a comfortable and safe ride, whether a beginner or an experienced rider. Your safety, comfort, and enjoyment are our priorities, regardless of your riding experience. All trails are guided and run through rolling grasslands, pine forests and along the edge of the breathtaking escarpment. All trails are guided.
Stay over in the farm-style self-catering accommodation, take part in the educational equine programmes, or just breathe in nature and revive your soul.
Kaapsehoop to Kruger National Park - 7 day riding and safari combo:
An unforgettable seven-day adventure, combining horse- back riding through the magnificent scenery of Kaapsehoop and exploring of the Kruger National Park in an open safari vehicle.
There are two packages available depending on the number of riders in the group. For a group of 4 or more riders (i.e. excluding the number of non-riders) the group as a whole (i.e. the group cannot be split) can choose any of the two options. For a group of 1 - 3 riders only option 1 is available.
All rates and options available on request - rates will include the following: Airport transfers from ORTIA or KMIA / accommodation and meals at Kaapsehoop Horse Trails / Transfer to Kruger National Park / Accommodation, meals and game drives in Kruger National Park / transfers back to ORTIA or KMIA.
Southern kruger national park
Kruger's historic Southern Region is bordered by the Crocodile River in the south and the Sabie River in the north. In the east, along the border with Mozambique, the Lebombo form a rugged ridge of rhyolite.
Most of Kruger's White Rhino occur in the Southern Region. The best sightings are around Pretoriuskop, Mbyamiti River, and south of Lower Sabie. The many ochre-coloured granite outcrops, framed by mountain rock figs (Ficus glumosa), offer an ideal habitat for Klipspringer, Baboon and Leopard, while Rock Hyrax occur in one locality west of Berg-en-dal.
Many seasonal rivers flow across this region and their sandy beds often hold pools of water that attract a wide variety of game. The appealing Mbyamiti is the largest of these rivers and its catchment falls entirely within the Park. Other important water courses in the region include the N'watimhiri, N'waswitshaka, Mtshawu, Mlambabe and Vurhami.
Extracted From: http://www.krugerpark.co.za/Kruger_National_Park_Regions-travel/krugerpark-the-southern-region.html
accommodation
Mjejane River Lodge
Mjejane River Lodge is perched on the banks of one of the Kruger National Park's greatest rivers - the Crocodile River - and is surrounded by tens of thousands of hectares of raw African wilderness. It is here that places of water are places of life. It is here that all forms of wildlife are drawn to the riverine habitat to feed and to quench their thirst. It is here that the paths of predators and prey cross. It is here that life and death are close companions. It is here that you are assured of a breathtaking wildlife experience.
From the first friendly welcome, to your journey of discovery through the African bush with an experienced game ranger at your side, to a starlit dinner around a dancing fire, to the individually decorated luxury bedrooms, Mjejane River Lodge is a truly unforgettable destination.
As the African bush weaves its magic spell, your senses will awaken and you will soak up a host of new experiences that will feed your soul. You will hear the sounds of the African bush and its deafening silence – a silence that may suddenly be broken by the whooping of hyenas, the reverberating roar of a lion, the loud grunting of hippos, the majestic trumpeting of elephants or the peaceful call of the fish eagle.
Imbali Safari Lodge
Nestled discreetly amidst a canopy of impressive Jackalberry and Tamboti trees in the iconic Kruger National Park. Imbali Safari Lodge continues the safari tradition of a bygone era, incorporating comfort and luxury in the serenity of the African bush. This exclusive lodge in the world-renowned Kruger National Park has just 12 private suites, each with their own plunge pool. Each suite has a large king bed and romantic en-suite bathroom with magnificent views of the wilderness beyond. All suites are air conditioned, and have telephones and mosquito nets.
Large French doors run the length of the room to let the beautiful outside wilderness in, on your terms; an expansive deck overlooks the Nwaswitsontso river or savannah grasslands with a Jacuzzi or outdoor pool to complete your leisure bush experience. Relax on the sunbed with a book or let those bubbles soothe your weary muscles; the chattering of weavers, thrushes and kingfishers providing a magical bush playlist for your relaxation.
Watch as the bush awakens around you; the dew glistens on the webs of the Golden Orb spider and Lilac Breasted Rollers flash their startling sky-blue bellies as they flit past your game vehicle. See wild dogs laze under the Acacia trees and elephants leave their distinct trail as they chomp through the bush at a leisurely pace. Steal a glance at the leopard eating its prey high up in an old Tamboti tree, zebra foraging alongside large herds of wildebeest and impala flashing their characteristic ‘M’ as they disappear in to the thick brush.
Hoyo Hoyo Safari Lodge
Hoyo Hoyo Safari Lodge offers indulgent spa treatments and a soothing massage in the seclusion of your private deck with the scents of ylang ylang, vanilla and cedarwood soothing body, mind and soul. There is no Wi-Fi or cellphone signal at this exclusive and remote safari lodge, allowing complete relaxation for our guests. The sparkling swimming pool promises a refreshing dip while providing the opportunity to enjoy the rich and varied wildlife that comes to the river for a cooling drink.
Guests are accommodated in six circular air-conditioned Tsonga homesteads with traditional earth-coloured walls and tapered thatched reed roofs. Relax on your private deck looking out on to the bush, take a long, leisurely shower in the open air or melt in to your comfortable king-size bed for an afternoon siesta. It’s your relaxing, informal bush experience on your terms.
Your rewards for a hard day’s safari are the delicious dishes created by Hoyo Hoyo Safari Lodge’s talented chef. Join us for a lovely dinner under the African Skies, in an unfenced area of our private concession in the Kruger National Park. This is a privilege that is reserved for our guests only. Nowhere else in Kruger will you be able to dine with the Big Five.
Guests will enjoy some of Kruger’s most spectacular landscapes and an extraordinary variety of wildlife, birdlife and plantlife within the Mluwati Concession, ensuring that each safari experience will be unique. Experience a morning and evening game drive during your stay at Hoyo Hoyo. Witness the excitement of the first rains; the terrapins playing in river pools, the call of the Pied Kingfisher and steady chirping of tree frogs.
Hamiltons Tented Camp
Reminiscent of an Out of Africa experience, a stay at Hamiltons Tented Camp is one that will remain etched in memory, much like the contribution the lodge’s namesake, James Stevenson-Hamilton, made to the national park the camp now calls home more than a century on. Built entirely of canvas set amidst age-old Jackalberry and Sausage trees, with high wooden platforms linking six elevated tents, Hamiltons treats guests to stunning views of the Nwatswitsonto River and offers the opportunity to enjoy spectacular wildlife and birdlife sightings. Your encounter with the Kruger bush truly is up close and personal.
Guests are accommodated in six exceptionally private luxury elevated tents overlooking the Nwaswitsontso River. From your own private deck, you can enjoy the sights and sounds of the bush that derives its existence from the river. Traditional fittings and features such as old brass light switches, steamer trunks with vintage labels revealing exciting journeys and sepia-stained photographs enhance the tradition and style of this ‘turn-of-the-century’ luxury safari tent; modern comforts such as electricity, air conditioning and an outdoor shower the only clues that we live in a different time.
Join your guide on a one and a half hour walk in our Private Concession and get to know the smaller intricacies of nature. Here you will be able to smell, touch and feel the natural surroundings you have travelled so far for. Your guide will spend time teaching you more about the tracks and signs of the bush as well as about the smaller animals often overlooked in pursuit of the Big Five.
Dine as you would have in the 1900s. Hamiltons Tented Camp ensures, whatever the occasion, meals are a classy affair. From fine crystal wine glasses to pewter silver water jugs, revel in the dining traditions of old in spectacular bushveld surroundings. Butlers dressed in traditional colonial uniforms anticipate your every need. Dine on deck in relaxed surroundings or enjoy a bush picnic. The choice is yours!
BELFAST
Belfast is situated 2025m above sea level and it is one of the coldest and highest towns in South Africa. Belfast is known for its excellent trout fishing conditions. Farmers farm: Cattle, dairy, sheep, maize, potatoes and timber. The town exports about 6 millions tulip buds annually. It also has the oldest Bluegum plantation in South Africa.
The town was named after Richard Charles O’Neill, who owned the farm that Belfast was built on, O’Neil was originally from Belfast in Northern Ireland. In October 2009, Belfast was renamed to eMakhazeni.
Extracted from: http://www.mpumalanga.com/discover/regions/highlands-meander/belfast
accommodation
Greystone Lodge
Greystone Lodge offers AA recommended accommodation and facilities on a 500 acre private nature reserve in the Mpumalanga Highlands of South Africa on a three star self-catering or B&B basis. Situated just off the N4 between Belfast and Dullstroom and within easy reach of the Blyde River Canyon, Pilgrim’s Rest and Kruger Park, it is an ideal base for touring and a perfect location for a quiet break from the city. Fly fishing, archery, nature walks, bird-watching, conference facilities, golf driving range, team building and function facilities are all available, as are their bar and restaurant.
Graskop
Graskop lacks the picturesque charm of some of the other little towns in Mpumalanga, but is a very convenient jumping-off place for exploring the R534 which begins just 3km north of the town – better known as the spectacular Panorama Route.
The Blyde River Canyon, Bourke's Luck Potholes, God's Window and the Sabie Waterfalls are all within easy driving distance. Even a hardened cynic would find it difficult not to be awed by the physical and spiritual beauty of the outlook from God's Window, while the dramatic landscape of the Blyde River Canyon and its nature reserve, which stretches from Graskop right up to the Abel Erasmus Pass, is also magnificent.
Graskop owes its origins to the heady days of the 1880s gold rush, when hopefuls from all over the world flocked to the area. Today the area is surrounded by pine and eucalyptus plantations that stretch from horizon to horizon – the world’s largest man-made forest at more than 4 million square km. Instead of the old ox wagons plying former trading routes, today you'll see huge timber trucks rumbling along the roads.
It's worth travelling east from the town to the scenic Koewyns Pass. Named after a local Pedi chief, it has panoramic views of the Graskop Gorge.
If you're driving a 4x4, take the Summit Route, rated as one of the top 4x4 routes in the country. It's user-friendly and takes you through some of the region's most dramatic scenery.
If you feel the need to stretch your legs, then choose the 8km, three-hour Jock of the Bushveld Trail, a circular route that starts in Graskop, traverses the edge of the escarpment through a 'forest' of strangely shaped rocks, before heading back to town.
Extracted from: http://www.southafrica.net/za/en/articles/entry/article-southafrica.net-graskop-mpumalanga
accommodation
Wild Forest Inn (Self-Catering)
Nestled against the edge of the natural forest at the foot of the mountain and The Bonnet Pass, overlooking Graskop town and the spectacular eastern Mpumalanga escarpment, (see main image above with arrow indicating the location) this quaint secluded single self-catering chalet offers cozy accommodation for 2 to 4 persons.
With less than 4 hours’ drive from Johannesburg, it is located 5km from Graskop, 10km from Pilgrim’s Rest and 24km from Sabie.
It is within easy travelling distance of Nelspruit (Mbombela), the Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport, the Kruger National Park (56 km to Phabeni Gate), Mozambique and Swaziland.
Being in close proximity of many well known scenic and historic attractions of the area, the establishment in its tranquil setting is ideal for a relaxing and refreshing break-away from a busy schedule.
Log Cabin Village (Self Catering)
Situated in the sleepy village of Graskop on the Panorama Route and close to the Kruger National Park, you will find our owner-managed resort. Our location makes it ideal for either destination or for the stopover traveler. Within walking distance you will find an array of restaurants, curio shops and places of interest.
The cottages offer both singles and doubles, all of which have a three star grading and AA recommended. In addition to the above we also have a swimming pool and restaurant on the premises for breakfast, lunch or light meals.
Situated in the heart of the Panorama route (Mpumalanga) you will find the sleepy Village of Graskop, and by nature of the location makes our resort the perfect destination for one to visit attractions such as the Kruger National Park, Blyde river canyon, Gods Window, Pilgrim's Rest and the Long Tom Pass.
Panorama Chalets & Rest Camp (Self Catering and Light Meals)
Panorama Chalets & Rest Camp is ideally situated on the Mpumalanga Escarpment. The breathtaking view over the Graskop Gorge and Lowveld has captured many a heart. The high mountains and cliffs, the forests and grasslands, the waterfalls and rivers are all present and visible from this magical place. This is truly the ideal setting for your next holiday or stopover.
We offer accommodation in 24 self-catering chalets for 2 to 6 persons, the chalets have one, two or three bedrooms each, with one or two bathrooms. Each chalet also features an open plan kitchen and dining room, DSTV (Mnet, KykNet, Movie Magic, and Super Sport), and outside braai facilities.
The Mpumalanga Escarpment region is world renowned for its scenic splendor and beauty, with a host of waterfalls and majestic view points of the Lowveld below, as well as the Blyde River Canyon. The distance indicated is from Graskop.
White river
White River is a small holiday and farming town situated just north of Nelspruit in Mpumalanga, South Africa. The farms in the region produce tropical fruits, vegetables, flowers and timber. After the Boer War the British demarcated land on the Emanzimhlope River, a tributary of the Crocodile River. Emanzimhlope is Swazi for White Waters. The land was used to demobilise British soldiers and the first manager of the settlement was Tom Lawrence (snr), after whom the longest street in the town is still named.
White River lies 20 km north of Nelspruit not far from the border with Kruger National Park. White River has a population of 15,954 and is located in an area of considerable scenic beauty. The climate is said to be one of the best in South Africa, neither excessively hot in summer when rainfall is at its highest, nor overly cold during the sunny winters. The farms tend to be relatively small but the agriculture is intensive with tropical and citrus fruits in abundance, and vegetables and cut flowers readily available.
Extracted From: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/White_River,_Mpumalanga
accommodation
Country Boutique Hotel
A beautiful little gem perched on the outskirts of the quaint Lowveld hamlet, White River. Once the original homestead of a local avocado farming family this charming small hotel has been entirely designed to offer luxury travellers an enveloping atmosphere of boutique style and proportions.
The understated elegance in a modern baroque style, complete with ornate chandeliers and mirrors creates this luxury haven. Chic boutique finishes, a sparkling swimming pool with squashy poolside seats and the cool haven of formal colonial gardens all combine into typical boutique-hotel hallmarks.
Country Boutique Hotel offers 22 elegantly appointed rooms of various sizes. Boasting sleek materials and stark palettes with bold colour splashes each decorated with individual style. Our rooms have exquisite views of our magnificent tranquil gardens, our country courtyard or the breath taking White River valley.
This fine food restaurant is indeed a refreshing addition to the Mbombela dining scene. Comfortable chairs lead to languishing visits and large doors allow for a semi al fresco atmosphere, allowing one to dine inside or out in the fabulous Mpumalanga weather.
Likweti Lodge
Likweti Lodge is an exclusive, 4-star establishment that includes 10 luxurious suites and two self-catering camps that offer guests a tranquil bushveld retreat within easy reach of top-notch amenities and world renowned attractions like the Kruger National Park. For residents of Likweti Bushveld Farm Estate, the lodge is an ideal alternative to home entertaining and offers excellent packages for birthday celebrations or even a Sunday breakfast with friends or family.
Accommodation at Likweti Lodge has been designed with maximum privacy and indulgent comfort top-of-mind ensuring that guests will enjoy their tranquil bush experience in the height of 4-star comfort. Likweti Lodge offers luxury suites and self catering accommodation.
Why not tie the knot in nature! We offer a choice of three different outdoor ceremony venues: under the Wild Fig Tree, on the banks of the magnificent Fish Eagle Dam or Top Dam adjacent to the Pezulu Reception room. Our thatch roof reception room has fold-away glass doors that allow the breathtaking views to form part of the décor.
Likweti Lodge is conveniently located for delegates travelling by road or by air. As with all things at Likweti Lodge, care has been taken to ensure that the delegate’s every need is catered for. Special dietary requirements can be accommodated by prior arrangement.
Ingwenyama Conference & Sports Resort
A beautiful, tranquil country estate nestled in the town of White River, Mpumalanga on the outskirts of Nelspruit or otherwise known as Mbombela, known for its great food, comfy accommodation, superb facilities and immaculate gardens. A mere 4 hour drives from the bustling city life of Johannesburg and Pretoria.
The estate has 97 rooms, with en-suite bathrooms, satellite television and complimentary Wi-Fi. It is well known for its excellent service delivered by a team of dedicated staff. Our restaurant, offers an al a carte experience or buffet with menus that reflect our executive chef’s passion for the freshest seasonal produce available, and a wine list that will cater for most wine connoisseurs. We have to offer a change in food scenery the boma or the lapa for a traditional menu and being outdoors enjoying the traditional boma fire.
Ingwenyama Conference & Sport Resorts High Performance Centre is a world-class sports training destination in South Africa that offers high performance sports training for sports teams and professional athletes both local and abroad.
THE SABIE SAND GAME RESERVE
The beautiful and historic Sabi Sand Private Game Reserve comprises of 65 000 hectares of incredible Mpumalanga plant and animal life. 50kms of its unfenced border adjoins the Kruger National Park, allowing wildlife to roam freely between the reserve and the park. Here guests are likely to spot the Big Five, as well as many other endangered species. Sabi Sand is also home to the famous Sabi Sabi concession, which was founded in 1979. The Sabi Sands Game Reserve has become famous for its magnificent leopard sightings. This gorgeous wild cat can be incredibly difficult to find, but at Sabi Sands you are very likely to get the unique opportunity of tracking one in the midst of a hunt! In an open 4×4 vehicle you will be able to follow this magnificent creature and see how it survives in the wild. Two rivers cross Sabi Sand – the Sabi River on its boundary in the south and the Sand River that flows from North-West to South-East. This has resulted in an abundance of Leopard, Lion, Rhino, Elephant, Buffalo, Cheetah, Zebra, Giraffe, Hyena and a wide variety of antelope and other species.
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accommodation
Cheetah Plains Private Game Reserve
Welcome to Cheetah Plains – with the promise of an authentic safari experience with breathtaking bushveld, plentiful wildlife, comfortable safari-style accommodation, service with a smile and delicious South African home style dining. At Cheetah Plains, you’ll be blown away by the abundant wildlife and unparalleled Big Five game viewing – all within the famous 65 000ha Sabi Sand game reserve. At Cheetah Plains Private Game Reserve, expect all five senses to be awakened by your African bushveld experience – bush buck roam freely among the chalets. You could hear the sound of animal calling at night: lion, hippo, hyena, jackal and more could be heard calling out across the bushveld.
The main lodge is a common area where our guests are invited to put their feet up, reconnect with family and friends, have a cocktail or cup of coffee and simply relax while surrounded by the sights and sounds of the African bushveld. The traditionally-thatched chalets & Bush Cottage at Cheetah Plains melt into beautiful indigenous gardens, which in turn are surrounded by pristine African bushveld. Each individual room has either a double bed or two single beds, an en-suite shower, air-conditioning, mosquito net and verandah overlooking the gardens and the wild African bush.
Beyond the stunning African bushveld scenery, the incredible wildlife sightings, the warm personal service (with a smile) and the inspiring atmosphere, we offer you a host of experiences to ensure that your visit becomes a memory that will last a lifetime.
