Nelspruit Tourism (2024) - South Africa > Top Places, Travel Guide

Nelspruit Travel Essentials

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Ideal duration: 1-2 days

Best Time: May - September Read More

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Also Refered As:

Mbombela

"Gateway to Mpumalanga and Nature Escapes"

Nelspruit Tourism

Nelspruit, also known as Mbombela, is a picturesque city in South Africa's Mpumalanga province, situated in the northeastern region. Serving as the provincial capital, Nelspruit is positioned near the borders of Mozambique and Swaziland, making it an ideal gateway to the renowned Kruger National Park, one of Africa's largest game reserves. Nelspruit boasts attractions such as Sudwala Caves and the Lowveld Botanical Garden.

Nelspruit features the notable Mbombela Stadium, a World Cup Stadium that would interest football enthusiasts. It holds significance as the second-largest citrus-producing area in the country. Cultural experiences encompass the Shangaan Cultural Village and Nelspruit Museum. Surrounded by mountains, Nelspruit offers excellent hiking trails for outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy. The Panorama Route reveals breathtaking viewpoints like the Blyde River Canyon and Bourke's Luck Potholes.

Toll Gates: Keep cash on hand for toll gates when driving to Nelspruit.
Kruger National Park: Don't miss a Kruger Park safari tour for a once-in-a-lifetime experience during your Nelspruit visit.
Accommodation with Meals: Opt for accommodations offering dinner to avoid driving in Nelspruit after dark.
Local Transportation: Utilize public buses, taxis, car rentals, tuk-tuks, and minibuses for commuting within Nelspruit.
Helicopter Tours: Mbombela and Mpumalanga, including Kruger Park, can be explored with exciting helicopter tours and rides.
Christmas School Holidays: Avoid the busy period or make advanced bookings for a smoother experience in the national park.
Drinking Water: Tap water is safe to drink in Nelspruit.

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Shopping in Nelspruit

From traditional crafts to modern finds, Nelspruit offers something special for every shopper. The Riverside Mall features international and local brands, while Halls Farm Stall showcases local flavours. The Lowveld National Botanical Garden hosts a Craft Market for handmade crafts. Markets like Emnotweni Farmers Market highlight local produce and crafts. With options like Promenade Shopping Centre, Nelspruit Plaza, and I’langa Mall, the city's shopping variety is truly impressive.

Nightlife in Nelspruit

Nelspruit's nightlife is a vibrant blend of unique experiences. The Pub & Restaurant Strip, adjacent to Promenade Shopping Centre, offers an array of bars and live music venues. Hops Hollow Microbrewery stands out for craft beers, while The Jock and Java, Stables Club, and Emnotweni Casino & Entertainment World contribute to the city's lively scene. For those seeking a stylish atmosphere, Kuzuri Restaurant and Lounge, News Café, Carisma Lounge and Cocktail Bar provide a range of cocktails and vibes.

History of Nelspruit

Nelspruit, originally established in the late 19th century as a trading post by pioneers has since evolved into a dynamic city in South Africa's Mpumalanga province. Its name, meaning "Nel's stream" in Afrikaans, pays homage to its founder, a businessman named Lourens Pretorius Nel. The settlement gradually grew around the trading post, spurred by the discovery of gold in nearby Barberton.
Over the years, Nelspruit played a significant role in the region's development, becoming a transportation hub and vital supply centre. The construction of railway lines in the early 20th century further solidified its importance, facilitating trade and connecting it to other cities. As a gateway to the iconic Kruger National Park, Nelspruit's historical journey intertwines with its present-day status as a regional capital, blending its heritage with modern growth and amenities.

Festivals in Nelspruit

Lowveld National Botanical Garden's Craft Market: Throughout the year, visitors have the opportunity to engage with local artisans and purchase unique crafts at the Lowveld National Botanical Garden's Craft Market.
Lowveld Air Show: Held in September, the Lowveld Air Show treats attendees to mesmerizing aerobatic displays and aircraft exhibitions.
Innibos National Arts Festival: During July, Nelspruit comes alive with a vibrant mix of music, arts, and cultural performances at the Innibos National Arts Festival.
Mapungubwe Arts Festival: Celebrated in April, the Mapungubwe Arts Festival is a showcase of local talent, offering diverse artistic mediums to explore.
Nelspruit Wine Festival: Held in August, the Nelspruit Wine Festival is an opportunity for visitors to sample a variety of local and international wines.
Komatipoort Food Festival: The Komatipoort Food Festival, taking place in September, is a culinary celebration featuring diverse cuisines, local dishes, and culinary demonstrations.
Mbombela Jazz Festival: In October, the city hosts the Mbombela Jazz Festival, offering a vibrant lineup of jazz music performances by both local and national artists.
The Royal Nguni Cultural Festival: Celebrated in December, the Royal Nguni Cultural Festival is a showcase of the rich cultural heritage of the Nguni people through traditional dances, music, and exhibitions.
Barberton Makhonjwa Mountain Challenge: November brings the Barberton Makhonjwa Mountain Challenge, an event that provides trail running and mountain biking opportunities to explore the stunning Barberton landscape.
Graskop Christmas Market: As December approaches, the Graskop Christmas Market features local crafts, artisanal products, and festive activities, creating a joyful holiday atmosphere.

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How to Reach Nelspruit

How to Reach Overview

To access Nelspruit and Kruger National Park from nearby cities, flying to Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport (KMIA), 25 kilometres from Nelspruit, is most preferred. A connected road network via the N4 highway covers around 330 kilometres from Johannesburg. Long-distance buses and the Shosholoza Meyl/Spoornet's Komati train on select days are also options, with trains being the least favoured due to longer travel times.

How to reach Nelspruit by flight

The Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport (KMIA) is the nearest airport to Nelspruit, located approximately 25 kilometres (about 15.5 miles) northeast of the city centre. The airport serves domestic flights, connecting Nelspruit with major cities like Johannesburg and Cape Town. The flight duration from Johannesburg to Nelspruit is around 1 hour and costs around $200 - $300 for a round trip. Whereas from Cape Town, it takes around 2.5 hours and costs between $250 - $550 for a round trip.

Domestic flights to Nelspruit can be booked through AirLink, CemAir, and FlySafair. And international flights to Johannesburg and Cape Town can be booked through Skyscanner.

How to reach Nelspruit by road

Nelspruit is well-connected by road networks. From Johannesburg, the distance is approximately 330 kilometres (205 miles), and the drive typically takes around 4 to 5 hours. The N4 highway is the main route connecting the two cities.

How to reach Nelspruit by train

The Shosholoza Meyl/Spoornet's Komati train connects Johannesburg and Mbombela (Nelspruit) via Tshwane (Pretoria) on Wednesdays and Fridays. Despite its comfort and dining car, the leisurely pace makes the trip take around 10 hours. A one-way first-class ticket costs R230, while a round-trip is priced at R460.

How to reach Nelspruit by bus

Several bus companies, such as Intercape and Greyhound, provide long-distance services between Johannesburg and Nelspruit as well as other major cities. The prices range from about 200 to 400 South African Rand (ZAR), depending on the class of service and amenities.

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The Main Road (Old N4) entering the city

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Nelspruit Travel Essentials

Mbombela

"Gateway to Mpumalanga and Nature Escapes"

Nelspruit Tourism

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