Dullstroom, Mpumalanga

At 2097m above sea level, Dullstroom is one of the highest towns in South Africa. It has a sub-alpine climate, and is well known for its cool, often misty atmosphere. The town's stone lodges nestle along cool trout dams and streams, where bright yellow arum lilies and 120 other species of indigenous wild flower carpet the region in a kaleidoscope of color every spring. With its many pubs, restaurants, lodges and quaint village shops, this is one of the most appealing tourist destinations in Mpumalanga. 

Dullstroom is ultimately about relaxing, breathing fresh air, be it by fishing, hiking, dining out or snuggling up next to a cosy fireplace on a misty night. The town and vicinity offers a choice of accommodation, ranging from camping to well equipped, self-catering houses, up-market lodges and hotels.

Dullstroom dates back to the early 1880's, when Dutch settlers came to the area. The town derives its name from one Wolterus Dull, chairperson of the Dutch immigrants. The "stroom" (stream) refers to the abundance of water in the area: The Crocodile River, which runs through the Kruger National Park, has its origin in Dullstroom. Other major tributaries, like the Lunsklip, Klip River, Steelpoort and Elands River, do not only feed important rivers and marshlands, but have also become synonymous with some of the best trout fishing in the country.

Visit Disney World!

Dullstroom and surrounds is primarily a haven for family fun, fly-fishing and country fresh air. The wide selection of elegant hotels and a variety of country accommodation, eateries, shops and activities, have made this an appealing tourist destination and an ideal stopover on the way to the Lowveld and Kruger Park.

Dullstroom - a true paradise for the nature lover.

Echo Caves, Mpumalanga

Situated just outside Ohrigstad are the spectacular Echo Caves. These mysterious caves were discovered in the 1920's by the owner of the farm. After his cattle mysteriously disappeared on the farm he started looking for answers. That is when he discovered the Echo Caves. After exploring the cave, the discoverer realized that this is a gift from nature laid among the gentle undulating hills of the Mpumalanga escarpment.

The Echo Caves are some of the oldest caves in the world and were declared a Historical Monument. The caves are so called because the local people used one of the stalactites as a drum to warn of any approaching Swazi. As these caves extend for some 40 km, the sound travelled for surprisingly long distances and the people could take refuge in the caves. From an archaeological point of view, the caves are truly fascinating as finds here confirm the legend that strangers may years ago in long white robes came to look for gold and to barter with the inhabitants. Some of the finds are exhibited at the Museum of Man. One of the rooms of the cave has a height of 60m! 

There are guided tours through 2km of tunnels viewing impressive stalagmites and stalactites. New discoveries include the Madonna and the Crystal Palace. The Echo Caves are the least well known of the limestone caves. Therefore, the advantage is that fewer people visit them and you may be lucky enough to enjoy this amazing underworld with just your guide.

For the more adventurous, a special tour can be organized to go deeper into the cave. The end of the cave has not yet been found and it is said that the end of the Echo Caves is somewhere close to the Strijdom tunnel. The caving tour, however, is definitely not recommended for people with claustrophobic problems. For just R30 one can explore some truly mysterious and fascinating wonders in these caves. Be adventurous and come exploring. Who knows, if you brave enough, you may even find the end of these caves and where they truly lead to….

Please also visit my new blog: Woman To Woman

Engela

Gustav Klingbiel Nature Reserve, Mpumalanga

The Gustav Klingbiel Nature Reserve is situated on the eastern side of Lydenburg along the scenic Long Tom Pass to Sabie and is one of the most beautiful holiday destinations in the world. One of the main attractions in Gustav Klingbiel Reserve is its fascinating bird watching opportunities. About 320 bird species have been recorded in the reserve and its vicinity and several game species such as Bushbuck, Kudu, Impala, Zebra, Eland, Grey Rhebok and Steenbok also occur in reserve to add an extra bit of excitement to your trip.

This has to be one of the most beautiful locations in the world. The reserve is 2200 hectares and the Klipgatspruit cuts the mountainous area into a deep valley. The main habitats include thornveld and bushveld on the low-lying areas, and montane grassland on hillsides and plateaus with protea woodland on the higher altitudes. Small isolated pockets of forest are present in the ravines that are tributaries of the Klipgatspruit.

Along the Long Tom Pass, scenic views of montane grassland with mountainous gorges and cliffs can be seen while small sprouting areas of Silver protea can be seen along the road and large concentrations of common Sugarbush can be spotted on mountain plateaus.

At the entrance to the reserve on the Long Tom Pass, there is a museum with an auditorium for conferences, an open exhibition and a curio shop. The museum has a very interesting exhibit about the town's history and history of the archaeological Stone Age sites, giving you plenty to do on your trip to the Gustav Klingbiel Reserve. 

The Gustav Klingbiel Reserve is absolutely stunning with marvellous views, fantastic sights and provides an opportunity for relaxation on an unequalled scale. Be sure to include the Gustav Klingbiel Nature Reserve on your next South African holiday.

Engela

Panorama Route, Mpumalanga

The magnificent Panorama Route in Mpumalanga is best known for its cultural heritage and its dramatic landscapes. 

Offering a vast array of exciting options for the visitor, the Panorama Route hosts some of the best adrenalin enhancing adventures in the country as well as some more placid pastimes.

One of the major highlights of the region is the Blyde River Canyon Reserve, home to spectacular wildlife and birdlife and some of the best views in South Africa. The Blyde River Canyon is the third largest canyon of its kind in the world. 

Other highlights include the exquisite waterfalls in Graskop and Sabie, the Echo Caves that speak of Africa’s powerful tribes such as Pedi, Mapulane and Swazi, trails left behind by the Voortrekkers in regions such as Lydenberg and Ohrigstad, ancient artistic footprints left by indigenous peoples of Africa and the Gold Rush territory, Pilgrim’s Rest, home to the early gold prospectors.

http://freelancer-daniel.blogspot.com/

Mark Gimenez