Nelspruit - Discovering South Africa

Travelling to Nelspruit

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Nelspruit, a pretty good destination in South Africa (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Nelspruit and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Nelspruit, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through South Africa, here's everything to know about Nelspruit for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Nelspruit

Nelspruit is a city located in the northeast region of South Africa, in the province of Mpumalanga. It is a popular tourist destination due to its close proximity to various natural attractions, such as the Kruger National Park and Blyde River Canyon. The city also boasts a vibrant arts and culture scene, with numerous galleries, museums, and cultural events. It is also a hub for business and commerce, with a growing economy and various shopping centers, restaurants, and entertainment options. The climate of Nelspruit is characterized by hot summers and mild winters, making it a pleasant year-round destination.

What to visit in Nelspruit

Sure, I'd be happy to help you with that. Here are some popular tourist attractions in Nelspruit with a brief description for each: 1. Lowveld Botanical Garden - A beautiful garden with thousands of plant species, including rare ones. It is a great spot for picnics or a relaxing walk.
2. Sudwala Caves - Ancient caves that are tens of millions of years old, featuring crystal formations and a beautiful subterranean lake. 3. Kaapsehoop Ghost Town - An abandoned mining town with picturesque houses and wild horses roaming free. It also boasts stunning views of the valley.
4. Chimp Eden - A sanctuary for rescued chimpanzees who have been through traumatic experiences. Visitors can see the chimps in their natural habitat and learn about their behaviours.
5. Kruger National Park - One of the most famous national parks in South Africa, it is home to the big five: lions, leopards, elephants, rhinos, and buffalos. There are guided game drives available to visitors.
6. i'langa Mall - A shopping mall that is perfect if you want to indulge in some retail therapy. It has numerous shops, restaurants and a cinema.
7. Emnotweni Casino - A great place to unwind and gamble for those who like this sort of activity. It features a wide variety of games, dining options, and entertainment.
8. Barberton Makhonjwa Mountains - A site of geological interest, these mountains are estimated to be over 3.5 billion years old. Visitors can explore the area on foot or mountain bike.
These are just a few of the many wonderful tourist attractions that Nelspruit has to offer.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in South Africa, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.

When to go on holiday to Nelspruit

The best time to visit Nelspruit is during the dry season, which runs from May to September. During these months, you can expect cooler temperatures and little to no rainfall. This is also an excellent time for wildlife viewing, as animals are concentrated around waterholes and rivers.
However, if you are interested in bird watching, the wet season from November to March is the best time to visit, as many migratory bird species make their way to Nelspruit and its surrounding areas during this time.
It's important to note that December to February are the hottest months in Nelspruit, with high humidity levels, so if you prefer milder temperatures, it's best to avoid this time.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Nelspruit

There are different ways to get to Nelspruit (South Africa), depending on your starting point and personal preferences. Here are a few options: 1. By Air: Nelspruit has a small regional airport, the Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport (MQP) with frequent flights from Johannesburg and Cape Town. You can also connect to international destinations via Johannesburg.
2. By Road: Nelspruit is connected to Johannesburg via the N4 highway, which is a well-maintained toll road. The distance is approximately 350 km, and the journey takes about 4 hours. There are also bus services and shuttle services available.
3. By Train: The Premier Classe train runs from Johannesburg to Nelspruit twice a week. The journey takes approximately 13 hours and is a luxurious experience.
4. By Car: If you prefer driving, you can rent a car and drive from Johannesburg to Nelspruit. The journey takes approximately 4 hours and provides the option to stop at scenic spots. Please ensure that you have sufficient time and maps to navigate the route.
I hope this helps!
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Nelspruit, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Nelspruit

Some typical foods from Nelspruit, South Africa are: 1. Bunny Chow - a hot curry dish served in a hollowed-out loaf of bread, often eaten with a side of sambals (a spicy relish) and a cold drink.
2. Braaipap - a South African staple made of maize meal (similar to polenta) cooked over a braai (BBQ) and served with grilled meat or a tomato and onion sauce.
3. Biltong - a dried, cured meat typically made from beef or game meats like kudu or ostrich, often eaten as a snack or added to stews.
4. Boerewors - a type of sausage made from beef or lamb, often seasoned with coriander, cloves, and other spices, and grilled or braaied.
5. Malva Pudding - a sweet, sponge cake-like dessert made with apricot jam and often served with custard or ice cream.
6. Chakalaka - a spicy vegetable relish made from onions, peppers, tomatoes, and carrots, often served as a side dish with mealie pap or rice.
You can find general info about typical foods in South Africa here.

Is Nelspruit an expensive destination for tourists?

In general, Nelspruit can be considered a relatively affordable destination for tourists. However, prices will vary depending on the type of activities you want to do and the accommodation you choose. Some popular tourist activities in Nelspruit include visiting Kruger National Park, exploring the Lowveld Botanical Garden, and going on safari tours. The cost of these activities can range from moderate to quite expensive, depending on the level of luxury you choose.
As far as accommodation goes, Nelspruit has a variety of options, including budget-friendly guesthouses and high-end hotels. You can expect to pay more for accommodation in and around Kruger National Park.
Overall, while Nelspruit does have some expensive options, it is possible to have an enjoyable and affordable trip to this destination.

Where to find accomodation in Nelspruit

For visitors to Nelspruit, some of the best areas to find accommodation would be the city center, West Acres, Sonheuwel, and Riverside. These areas are all conveniently located near popular attractions like the Lowveld National Botanical Garden, the Sudwala Caves, and the Kruger National Park. They also offer a wide range of accommodation options to suit different budgets and preferences, from luxury hotels and resorts to guesthouses and backpacker lodges.
You can check hotel prices at Nelspruit here:
Booking.com

Is Nelspruit a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Nelspruit is generally a safe place for tourists. However, as with any destination, it's important to take the necessary precautions to ensure your safety. Here are a few tips to keep in mind: 1. Stay in well-lit, populated areas at night.
2. Don't leave valuables unattended or visible in your car.
3. Be aware of your surroundings and keep an eye out for any suspicious activity.
4. If you're going out for the day, let someone know where you're going and when you expect to be back.
5. Use common sense and trust your instincts.
Overall, Nelspruit is a beautiful and welcoming destination for tourists, but it's always best to be cautious and prepared.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in South Africa here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Nelspruit.

What type of travelers will enjoy Nelspruit the most?

Nelspruit, also known as Mbombela, can be enjoyed by all types of travelers, including couples, young people looking for fun, and families. Couples can enjoy the tranquility offered by the Lowveld Botanical Garden or take a romantic walk in the Kaapsehoop Ghost Town. The city has a wide range of restaurants, cafes, and bars that offer romantic and cozy atmospheres.
Young people can indulge in outdoor activities such as hiking and exploring the nearby Kruger National Park. They can also visit the nearby Sudwala Caves, which is a natural wonder that offers exciting tours.
Families will enjoy the many kid-friendly activities, such as visiting the Chimp Eden Sanctuary, the Elephant Whispers, or the Jane Goodall Institute Chimpanzee Sanctuary. Nelspruit also has various parks and green spaces that offer a conducive environment for family picnics and outdoor games.
In conclusion, Nelspruit offers something for everyone, no matter what type of traveler they are.

How to get around Nelspruit

To move around Nelspruit, you can use public transportation such as taxi vans and buses. Additionally, renting a car or hiring a private taxi service can also be a convenient option. There are also shuttle services available for transportation to and from the airport.

What to see around Nelspruit

Certainly! Here are some great places to visit on a day trip from Nelspruit: 1. Kruger National Park - This park is just a 30-minute drive from Nelspruit and is home to some of the most diverse wildlife in South Africa.
2. Barberton - A charming town located about an hour from Nelspruit that is known for its scenic drives, gold mining history, and hiking trails.
3. Sudwala Caves - Located about 20km outside of Nelspruit, these caves are the oldest known caves in the world and feature unique geological formations and an underground river.
4. Sabie - A town about an hour away from Nelspruit that is known for its stunning waterfalls, hiking trails, and mountain biking.
5. Chimp Eden - A sanctuary for rescued chimpanzees located about 40 minutes away from Nelspruit. Visitors can take a guided tour to learn more about these amazing creatures and their conservation efforts.
These are just a few of the many great day trip options available from Nelspruit. I hope this helps!
For every travel information about South Africa you can click here.

Wild Trips is the Wikipedia of travel: in the unfortunate case you find an error, please write to us to correct it... Thank you!
Follow us on Facebook if you like wild trips around the world and beautiful itineraries in Italy: https://www.facebook.com/wildtrips.