The South African province of Gauteng - 'the place of gold' - is home to one of Africa's most vibrant cities and sub-Saharan Africa's economic capital Johannesburg, South Africa's capital Pretoria, vibrant Soweto, the Magaliesberg Mountains, and the World Heritage-listed Cradle of Humankind. While it is the smallest of South Africa’s provinces, it serves as the economic powerhouse of the country. Gauteng is known for its multicultural mix of people, eclectic heritage, and bustling jacaranda-lined cities fringed by scenic natural landscapes. Visitors can enjoy ample nature trailing and hiking opportunities, discover South Africa’s most famous township and explore the origins of humankind.
Bordering Zimbabwe, Mozambique, and Botswana, the Limpopo Province is South Africa’s northernmost province renowned for its quintessentially African vistas. This region is known for its immense natural beauty featuring rugged mountains meeting pristine savannah plains sheltering a diverse array of wildlife. It encompasses the Makgabeng Plateau, the Blouberg Mountains, and a variety of towns and cities surrounded by a host of reserves including the world-renowned Kruger National Park. Visitors flock to this province to discover the fossil-rich caves of Makapansgat, explore the archaeological site of Mapungubwe and enjoy an authentic safari experience.
Set in South Africa's Limpopo Province, Rietspruit Game Reserve stretches over 5,500 hectares, about 5.5 hours drive from Johannesburg. Set in the foothills of the Klien Drakensberg Mountains and functioning as a beautiful gateway to the Greater Kruger National Park, this enthralling destination is a favourite among nature photographers, animal lovers, and travellers seeking outdoor adventure. Explore the breathtaking Blyde River Canyon, the third-largest canyon in the world-famous for its jaw-dropping vistas; choose from a selection of fantastic game drive opportunities, or indulge in a sublime spa treatment while taking in the views. Other activities on offer include swimming in the dam or fishing for bass. The reserve is home to endangered African wild dogs, as well as leopards, cheetahs, hyenas, and an impressive variety of bird and reptile species.
Located in the Mpumalanga Province, the Timbavati Private Nature Reserve shares a fenceless border with the world-renowned Kruger National Park. This magnificent 60 000 hectare reserve is best known for its two very rare white lions discovered here in the 1970s, which gave this destination its name. Meaning 'the place where something sacred came down to earth from the heavens', the park lives up to the hype with its enthralling African savannah, abundant wildlife, and friendly people. Visitors have the opportunity to see 40 mammal species, 360 bird species and the famous Big Five (lion, leopard, rhinoceros, elephant, and Cape buffalo). Enjoy a wide array of activities including daytime safaris, guided night game drives, bush walks, and excellent bird watching.
Situated in South Africa’s beautiful Mpumalanga Province, the quaint village of Dullstroom is known for its excellent fishing opportunities and fresh country air. Aptly named, Dullstroom (‘stroom’ meaning stream) enjoys an abundance of water, marking the beginning of the Crocodile River and home to other major tributaries. It serves as a convenient stopover for visitors on the way to the Lowveld and Kruger Park. Dullstroom piques the interest of many newcomers with its sub-alpine climate, three endangered crane species, abundant wildflowers, rare mammals, great fishing and features the highest railway station in South Africa at over 2000 metres above sea level.
Connecting the Lowveld and the Drakensberg, and sandwiched between the Kruger National Park and the Highlands Meander, the historical Panorama Route is a scenic drive in the Mpumalanga Province. The route features sensational views of natural wonders including fascinating rock formations and impressive waterfalls and boasts numerous scenic hiking trails alongside a myriad of fauna and flora. The quaint little town of Graskop serves as the gateway to this wonderful route. Panorama’s undoubted highlight is the Blyde River Canyon, one of the world's largest green canyons, filled with lush subtropical vegetation. Some other popular attractions along the route include the spectacular Lisbon, Berlin, and Mac Mac Falls; Bourke's Luck Potholes; the Three Rondavels; and the astonishing God’s Window. Don’t miss the world-famous Kruger National Park and the picturesque gold rush town of Pilgrim's Rest, a historic living museum.
As previously described
