Nelspruit, also known as Mbombela, is the capital of Mpumalanga Province and gateway to South Africa's Kruger National Park, famous for the Big Five of African wild animals. The city is the perfect base to explore everything Mpumalanga has to offer and, while enjoying a sub-tropical climate, is surrounded by beautiful scenery, green valleys and hills. Just outside of the city, visitors can explore the Lowveld National Botanical Garden with its collection of rare plant species. Close by are the prehistoric Sudwala Caves along with a cultural centre and dinosaur park which educate visitors about Africa's past history.
Those who enjoy being out in the fresh air can enjoy the many hiking and nature trails surrounding Nelspruit, and animal lovers can visit a local ostrich or crocodile farm. For evening entertainment, the city has an entertainment centre on offer with an eight-screen cinema complex and a casino.
The city also hosts various annual festivities including the newly introduced annual Mpumalanga Show, with many exciting events. Each year in July, the Innibos Cycle Festival is held, where visitors can participate or just watch the fun. The annual Uplands Festival runs each year in May, with music concerts and other events just a 20 minute drive from the city.
Nestled in such a beautiful location, Nelspruit has many attractions to enjoy, both in the city itself and the surrounding countryside. The Kruger National Park is approximately a 50-minute drive away from the city and other interesting venues are located just outside of town.
Explore Lowveld National Botanical Garden
Just outside the city, visitors can enjoy the African Rain Forest with its suspended bridge over the Crocodile River and pretty cascading waterfall. They can also explore the gardens with their many rare -- and often endangered -- plant species including the cycads and the baobab tree.
Adventure in Sudwala Caves
Tours are available to several caverns in the Sudwala Caves, including the exciting aragonite crystal chamber. While there, visit the Dinosaur Park with life-sized models of pre-historic animals. The caves are located a 25-minute drive from the city and there are swimming pools and picnic spots on site.
Emnotweni Casino & Entertainment Complex
Enjoy evening entertainment in the Riverside Mall including a casino and an eight-screen cinema showing the latest releases. There are several restaurants available to enjoy an evening meal at, with a shopping adventure on offer during the daytime hours in the mall.
Nelspruit is host to several annual events involving music, South African culture, livestock, sports and local art. Some of the most popular events are listed below.
Mpumalanga Show. This varied event offers a variety of stalls and exhibitions, including live music events, arts and crafts and bake-off events to enjoy. The show is held each year at the end of August and beginning of September.
Innibos Cycle Festival. The cycle festival sees a variety of events that are exciting for both the participants and onlookers, with road and mountain cycling events held during July each year. The event is combined with the Innibos National Arts Festival in the area.
Uplands Festival. Introduced by the Uplands Preparatory School, the Festival was launched to raise funds for the school and its outreach programmes. The festival sees various well-known local bands playing in concert as well as equestrian events. Camping and a beer tent are available.
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