Things to do in and around Mbombela

Experience world wonders near Nelspruit

Visiting Nelspruit whether for a day, a weekend or longer, is certainly an adventure. Mbombela is unique not only because it is Mpumalanga’s most cosmopolitan city, but because it is so close to some of the country’s (even the world’s) most magnificent natural sites.  Just take a short drive away (no more than 30 minutes) from the hustle and bustle and you will be captivated into the most spectacular wonders nature has to offer. At #GoNelspruit we want you to experience this city to the maximum and therefore suggest you visit some of the following spots:

• Lowveld National Botanical Garden – One doesn’t even have to leave the city centre to find the peace and tranquility associated with paradise. The Lowveld National Botanical Garden is located near the Provincial Government complex and covers almost 165 hectares of land. Crossing both the Crocodile and the Nel Rivers, these gardens are rich with animal, plant and insect life and offers an indescribable splendor of lush vegetation, sweeping lawns and majestic scenery.  The garden is open daily from 08:00 – 18:00 throughout the year and is the perfect spot to enjoy some family or personal time surrounded by the best nature has to offer. For more information call +27 (0) 13 752 5531.

• Sudwala Caves – These caves are a mere a 30 minutes-drive from Nelspruit, on the R539 to Sabie. They are the oldest known caves in the world and are rich in history. The Sudwala caves are undoubtedly one of the region’s most popular tourist destinations, with a variety of guided tours on offer. The basic tour is an hour long and takes guests 600 metres in and 150 metres underground and provides interesting historical information as well as worthwhile photo opportunities in spacious well-lit chambers. There is also a crystal tour on offer for the more adventurous. This tour involves a two-kilometer excursion into the cave, to a crystal chamber which boasts sparkling aragonite crystals and is an absolute eye-sore.
  The caves are open from 08:30 – 16:30 daily and for more information call +27 (0) 83 446 0228 or +27 (0) 79 205 1688.

• Sudwala Dinosaur Park – The Sudwala Dinosaur Park is situated next to the Sudwala Caves and displays life size models of pre-historic animals including ancient reptiles, dinosaurs and pre-historic Also, on display are live Nile crocodiles as evidence on how these creatures have perfectly adapted themselves for survival while maintaining similar features to their ancient relatives. The park is open daily and can be contacted on +27 (0) 81 043 0706.

• Sudwala Stone Ruins – These ancient ruins are also near the Sudwala Caves where guided tours are on offer. The 90 minutes guided tours have been aptly labelled the Walk of the Ancients and are filled with an array of fascinating archaeological information that most will find extremely interesting. Hikes must be booked in advance by calling +27 (0) 83 386 8907.

• Montrose Falls – also known as the Montrose Creek Falls, visiting these waterfalls is certainly a must-do when visiting Nelspruit. Situated very close to the city ensures one doesn’t have to veer too far off-course to appreciate nature at its best. These falls are renowned for their relentless power especially after heavy rains when masses of water crash over the giant boulders. They are situated on the N4 Toll Route, just opposite the Schoemanskloof turn off.

• Mafunyane Water Park – Need to do shopping in Mbombela but have nowhere to go with the kids this summer? Make sure to visit Mafunyane Water Park at Riverside Mall in Mbombela. They are open every day during Spring and Summer times and take bookings for large parties or events. Cool off this summer and relax in the heart of Mbombela. Cal them at +27 (0) 81 538 9311