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Attractions
Top Things to See near Rosesands Mountain Lodge

Scenic Routes &
Natural Wonders of Mpumalanga

The Mpumalanga region offers an incredible variety of attractions, all within reach of Rosesands Mountain Lodge. From breathtaking viewpoints and geological marvels to cultural sites and botanical gardens, visitors can enjoy memorable day trips that showcase the area’s rich beauty and history. Whether you’re drawn to dramatic landscapes, fascinating wildlife, or ancient heritage, these nearby attractions promise unforgettable experiences for every type of traveller.

Barberton Makhonjwa Geotrail

The Barberton Makhonjwa Geotrail is a fascinating journey through some of the world’s oldest rock formations, dating back over 3.5 billion years. The route includes 11 marked points with informative displays, while Lebombo Viewpoint provides sweeping panoramas and a perfect picnic spot. Along the way, visitors can view examples of ancient volcanic and sedimentary rocks. Although there are no facilities on the trail itself, a short trip across the Eswatini border offers access to the Mining Museum, complete with restrooms and a restaurant.

The Panorama Route

The Panorama Route is one of South Africa’s most spectacular scenic drives, weaving through the dramatic Mpumalanga Highlands and the Great Escarpment. Highlights include God’s Window, Bourke’s Luck Potholes, the Three Rondavels, and the breathtaking Blyde River Canyon. The route is also home to beautiful waterfalls such as Berlin Falls, Lisbon Falls, Sabie Falls, and Bridal Veil Falls. This journey combines dramatic landscapes with natural landmarks, making it one of the region’s most popular sightseeing experiences.

Barberton

Barberton is a lively town in the Lowveld with a rich gold mining heritage and a warm community spirit. Visitors can explore the Barberton Museum, browse local shops, or discover historic buildings that tell the story of its pioneering past. The town is also home to welcoming cafés and restaurants where you can enjoy local flavours. With its blend of culture, history, and small-town charm, Barberton offers a rewarding stop for travellers exploring Mpumalanga.

Kaapsehoop

The charming village of Kaapsehoop, just 25 kilometers from Nelspruit, is known for its striking scenery and historic mining past. Rolling hills, waterfalls, and indigenous forests create a picturesque setting, while the area is most famous for its wild horses – a herd of around 200 that roam freely across 17,000 hectares. Visitors can enjoy hiking trails, photography opportunities, and the village’s laid-back atmosphere. Kaapsehoop is a destination that combines natural beauty with a sense of heritage and local character.

Pilgrim’s Rest

Step back into South Africa’s gold rush days with a visit to Pilgrim’s Rest, a heritage town declared a National Monument. Established during the Transvaal gold rush of 1873, the town’s original character has been carefully preserved. Visitors can explore historic buildings, browse museums, and walk the same streets where hopeful prospectors once searched for fortune. Pilgrim’s Rest offers a fascinating journey into the past and remains one of Mpumalanga’s most popular cultural attractions, perfect for history lovers and curious explorers alike.

Lowveld National Botanical Garden

The Lowveld National Botanical Garden is a 159-hectare natural wonder located just outside Nelspruit. Shaped by the dramatic flow of the Crocodile and Nels Rivers, the garden features a gorge, waterfalls, and peaceful pools. It is home to more than 600 indigenous plant species and over 2,000 cultivated plants, making it an important conservation site. Open daily from 08h00 to 17h00, the garden offers an ideal day trip for families, nature enthusiasts, and anyone interested in South Africa’s rich biodiversity.

Chimp Eden

Chimp Eden, located in the Umhloti Nature Reserve near Nelspruit, is South Africa’s first chimpanzee sanctuary and a must-do activity for wildlife enthusiasts. Guided tours allow guests to observe rescued chimpanzees in spacious semi-wild enclosures, displaying natural behaviours such as climbing, foraging, and social interaction. The sanctuary, managed by the Jane Goodall Institute, highlights critical conservation efforts and rescues from the pet trade, bushmeat, and entertainment industries. This educational activity combines wildlife viewing with meaningful insight into primate protection.