Set high on the escarpment, the Mpumalanga Highlands feature endless savannah plains meeting steep mountain passes hugging rugged rocky cliffs. The Highlands of Mpumalanga are a playground for nature and adventure lovers. A number of charming, high-altitude, grassland villages are scattered on a sea of cattle ranches which are interspersed with numerous trout fishing locations and mountain hideaways. Aside from the trout and quaint towns the highland scenery and flora and fauna are also major attractions. Visitors can enjoy a number of wonderful activities including: discovering crystal-clear streams and cascading waterfalls, visiting the Highland’s tourism mecca of Dullstroom, as well as horse riding, whiskey and beer tasting, hiking, fly fishing and much more.
Located on South Africa’s Highveld plateau, Johannesburg is a fast-paced, creative city shaped by gold-rush history, cultural diversity and constant reinvention. Its atmosphere is energetic and urban, with contemporary galleries, rooftop bars and leafy suburbs existing alongside powerful reminders of the country’s past. Visitors can explore the Apartheid Museum, tour Soweto’s historic streets or browse vibrant markets and design spaces in neighbourhoods such as Maboneng. The city’s soundtrack shifts from lively jazz and amapiano beats to the hum of busy streets, while the scent of grilled street food drifts through open-air cafés and market stalls. Johannesburg rewards travellers who engage with its complexity and culture, though its size, traffic and contrasts mean it is best experienced with some planning and local insight.
Situated on the Indian Ocean coastline just north of Durban, Umhlanga is an upmarket seaside town renowned for its golden beaches, modern lifestyle and relaxed coastal atmosphere. The town's palm-lined promenade stretches alongside the ocean, inviting leisurely walks, cycling and whale watching during the migration season. The iconic Umhlanga Lighthouse and scenic Umhlanga Lagoon Nature Reserve add natural and historical appeal, while nearby shopping centres, restaurants and cafés create a lively social scene. Warm waters and lifeguarded beaches make swimming and surfing popular throughout much of the year. Combining easy access to Durban with a polished resort feel, Umhlanga is an excellent base for both beach holidays and exploring the wider KwaZulu-Natal coastline.
