Mpumalanga is the ultimate destination for your holiday
By: Alexis Tshangana
I was part of a contingent of journalists who embarked on SA Tourism’s ‘Shot Left Summer Tour’ into the far flung Mpumalanga Province, bordering Mozambique and the Kingdom of Eswatini.
You truly won’t be disappointed as I was impressed with all I came across during those few days and unforgettable moments.
Mpumalanga, the Province of the Rising Sun, as it’s referred to by many a traveller, is not all about the natural vegetation seen around the famous Panorama Route which, in its most naturalness, boasts of the likes of the God’s Window, Bourke’s Potholes and the all-time favourites, The Three Rondavels, all sprawled in close proximity of the Blyde River Canyon.
There’s a totally different atmospheric side of Mpumalanga, other than the wildlife hosted in the world famous Kruger National Park, which exudes of the more laid-back scenario that exposes another spectacular feature which exposes a traditional part of the province which put to the fore, the Shabalala Cultural Village, a Swati indigenous demonstration of their living standards, food, music, dance and more importantly, an insight into the origins of the Swati nation.
If you’re looking for a holiday destination this summer, venturing to Mpumalanga is the answer, as it surely won’t disappoint.
Alighting from our flight from OR Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg which landed at the Kruger-Mpumalanga International Airport, was spectacular in its own right – flying from one international airport, was a royalty treatment in itself.
We were whisked to our accommodation at the Nut Grove Manor in White River, an intimate 5-star boutique hotel right in the heart of Mpumalanga.
It was an absolute dream as it has this relaxed and peaceful atmosphere about it, a perfect destination.
We took to the road and explored some parts of Mpumalanga, commencing at the Casterbridge Lifestyle Center – it has museums, an art gallery, a hotel, restaurants, arts and craft shops, clothing stores owned by locals – food tasting at the restaurants, just to get a feel of what the province Is all about.
I enjoyed being at the Motorcycle Museum where we got more information about the olden day cars and who the cars belonged to back in those days.
The team enjoyed the art gallery called the White River Art Gallery, owned by a young lady who shared some stories behind her paintings and artwork that is done by local artists.
Magnolia restaurant was the perfect place for our unforgettable lunch menu and was complemented by the gin tasting at the famous Gin&Co.
Our visit to the Shabalala Cultural Center in Hazyview introduced us to a custom-made traditional drink accompanied by mopani worms and nuts which are known as “mantongomane” in Siswati.
We witnessed their traditional attire to wear in order to adhere to the rules of the culture because we were told that nobody is to enter the kraal without wearing the proper attire, as a symbol of respect.
Traditional dancing proved to be one of the most enjoyed activities.
We enjoyed a sumptuous meal from impala stew with stamp/pap and choice of vegetables such as butternut, beetroot and “umbidvo” which is a very well-known dish in the siSwati culture.
From The Three Rondavels, we drove to the Bourke’s Luck Potholes which are situated 35 km north of Graskop.
Mpumalanga Is the perfect place for sightseeing because it has the most beautiful views.
We also embarked on an adventure at the Graskop Gorge Lift Company. It is situated in Graskop near the Panorama Route – Graskop Lift Company has a variety of activities to choose from such as Zip-lining, the forest trail, the lift, and big swing.
We spent the two nights at Mdluli Safari Lodge situated at the Numbi Gate at Kruger National Park. It’s a 7-star lodge at one of South Africa’s largest game reserves. The lodge has luxury tents, swimming pools, spa facilities and game drives.
It has 50 luxurious and spacious air conditioned tents. Each tent has its own patio with the beautiful views.
The Mdluli Safari Lodge is the experience of a lifetime, the atmosphere there is so peaceful because we are surrounded by nature and all you can hear is just the sounds of nature.
Truth be told, this was one of my most unforgettable outings, comprising of a variety of adventures. I surely urge you to take that Shot Left Summer Tour, to nowhere else, but Mpumalanga!
#Shotleft
#Gimmesummertour
#Itsmysouthafrica
Mdluli Guest Lodge