Mpumalanga meaning "place of the rising sun", in SiSwati, is one of the most exciting and rapidly developing provinces in South Africa. Most visitors to Mpumalanga spend a day or more in the Kruger National Park, one of the world's biggest and best game reserves. Nelspruit, the provincial capital, is an important stop en route to Kruger and many private game reserves, and to Maputo in Mozambique. Created after the country's first democratic elections in 1994, covers 6.5% of South Africa's area, constituting an area larger than Belgium and Netherlands combined. Tourism has been identified as one of the most important industries. Tourist attractions are numerous, and varied and range from game viewing, including the big five, to spectacular natural wonders such as waterfalls, caves and unique rock formations. Other attractions include bird watching, scenic drives, river rafting, ballooning, hiking trails, historical sites and monuments.
Africa's "Big5"
The sought after Big 5 of Africa leopard, elephant, buffalo, rhino, lion - derived their name from the big game hunters of old. It has nothing to do with size. These are the 5 most dangerous animals when wounded while hunting. Often turning back in their tracks and lying in wait for the pursuing hunter.
Jock Of The Bushveld
"Jock of the Bushveld" by Sir Percy Fitzpatrick, ranks as a literary classic of South Africa and remains one of the greatest stories ever written. From the date of its first publication in September 1907, it has never been out of print. It is a unique, essentially true story woven around the life and time of a young transport rider and his dog in the Lowveld.
Blyde River Canyon - one of the great natural wonders of Africa. The canyon was shaped over millions of years by the erosive action of water, sand particles and boulders carried by the Blyde River to the sea.