A wild and rugged province in eastern South Africa, Mpumalanga, is the Zulu name for "the place where the sun rises". Bordering Swaziland and Mozambique, it has a diverse culture, with truly wild terrains and excellent wildlife spotting. One of South Africa’s smallest provinces, Mpumalanga packs a lot in. A land of mountainous landscapes that transform into luscious valleys; arid bushveld interrupted only by the odd sleepy town, Mpumalanga’s natural attractions make it a hot spot for outdoor enthusiasts. From rock climbing to cliff jumping; rafting to bouldering; horse riding or hiking there is no shortage of adrenaline-fuelled ways to explore this truly wild province. Our selection of the best places to stay in Mpumalanga showcase five-star luxury lodges, as well as budget-friendly accommodation, ensuring that there is something for every traveller.
Home to the world’s third-largest canyon, the enormous Blyde River Canyon, which carves its way through the Drakensberg mountains, it is one of South Africa’s most iconic sights, and one of those places that photography simply does not do justice. A hike up to its highest point leaves visitors breathless in every sense of the word. It has to be seen to be believed.
Mpumalanga is also prime ‘Big 5’ territory. To the east it borders the southern half of the Kruger Park, as well as the prominent Sabi Sands private game reserve, both boasting an excellent selection of lodges and places to stay, from family-friendly to all-out luxury.
Our selection of the best places to stay in Mpumalanga showcase the best that this area of pristine beauty and uninterrupted nature has to offer.
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Mpumalanga (White River, )
A very grand country escape with a minute price tag. This charming hotel provides sophisticated interiors within driving distance of the Kruger Park, for those who enjoy their homely comforts. Excellent dining, an outdoor pool, lounge and dining areas, guests will feel very at home here. Charming.
Mpumalanga
Bucolic family lodgings surrounded by some of South Africa's most pristine landscapes. This is a place to come and "get away from it all" with a good book and your nearest and dearest. Cosy family cottages provide a comfortable stay, complete with sitting and dining areas, and a small kitchen.
Mpumalanga
This inviting thatched country abode provides a warm welcome to travellers of all ages. Relax amidst manicured gardens with a charming pool and plenty of shady spots. Each of the rooms is of a good size and include enormous beds and characterful bathrooms. Day trip to Kruger Park. Excellent value.
Mpumalanga (Southern Kruger National Park Mpumalanga,)
Excellent value, family friendly lodge providing a comfortable stay amidst the African bush. Each of the rooms is decorated in a homely style, with floral prints and en suite bathrooms. Buffet dining provides local and continental flavours. A well-priced stay.
Mpumalanga
Superb family stay, this property is brimming with outdoor activities for children, whilst comfortable cottages make for the perfect base for exploring the surrounding wildlife. Hearty meals are popular with all ages - an excellent value stay.
Mpumalanga
Charming Spanish style lodge providing flexible family accommodation within easy reach of The Kruger Park. Surrounded by some of South Africa's most beautiful sites (God's Window, Blyde River Canyon) the hotel is an oasis within itself. Colourful rooms and homely dining - a great choice.
Mpumalanga
Well-priced excellently positioned safari lodge, a few minutes drive from the Kruger Park's Phabeni Gate. Each of its 18 cottages is spacious enough to accommodate young children or provide a couple with plenty of privacy. Themed dinner nights and a family of elephants nearby - a superb choice.
Mpumalanga (Limpopo)
Awarding-winning, homely lodge in a rugged bush setting, located just a 10-minute drive from the Phabeni Gate of the Kruger National Park. Each of its twenty rooms is filled with antiques and original features, from exposed beams to original tiles, with plush fabrics and claw-foot tubs. Just lovely.
Mpumalanga
An elegant eight-bedroom guesthouse boasting indulgent wellness facilities. Opulent suites provide a very romantic backdrop from which to explore the Kruger Park and some of South Africa's most famous geographical wonders. There's a pool, hot tub baths, and excellent indoor-outdoor dining.
Mpumalanga
Excellent value family accommodation. Choose between one and two-bedroom cottages which include private balconies and plenty of space to spread yourselves out. There are lots of activities on offer and superb dining throughout the day. Relax by the pool, play a round of golf. A fun stay.
Mpumalanga
A charming lodge, offering luxurious yet good value family accommodation. Stay in a traditional thatched style cottage with luxurious four-poster beds and large bathrooms. There is an adult's and children's pool, as well as spa facilities. Dining is superb with excellent continental dishes served.
Mpumalanga
Located within the Savanna Biome, covering an impressive 32% of South Africa, this intimate lodge provides full board accommodation, with bundles of charm and ambience. Its five rooms offer beautiful, luxurious interiors and large bathrooms, plus a large pool and al fresco bush fire in the evening.
Mpumalanga (KwaZulu-Natal)
Choose between Elephant Point's eight private lodges, all with private pools, perfect for families travelling together. Self-catering, guests have the option of hiring a private chef, or having their shopping done beforehand: everything is taken care of! Bordering Kruger Park it's a great stay.
Mpumalanga
Stunning family house turned safari lodge - with interiors by famed designer David Strauss and artwork by Marion Geiger-Orengo it is an aesthete's haven. Each of its suites boasts a private sit-out where you can listen to the sound of the bushveld. Superb dining, infinity pool, plus daily safaris.
Mpumalanga
Nestled amidst the Kruger Park, this adults-only safari lodge boasts luxurious suites and superb wildlife opportunities. An utterly romantic stay choose from candlelit dining and indulgent spa treatments. Delicious freshly baked cakes and pastries are served - as are gourmet dishes and fine wines.
Mpumalanga (Sabi Sands)
Beautifully appointed suites nestled amidst the private Sabi Sands reserve. Great for couples and families. Babysitting services are available as are indulgent spa treatments. A buffet feast is served for breakfast, lunch, and dinner plus there's a great wine list. Excellent safari opportunities.
Mpumalanga
Charming, characterful lodge with excellent wildlife opportunities. Colourful rooms are filled with African art and local curios. Dining is superb, with a tasty mix of local and continental dishes. There's an inviting pool and plenty of shady outdoor lounging areas to relax. Divine.
Mpumalanga
Intimate six bedroom lodge within the Kruger Park, providing an excellent all-inclusive stay. Spacious rooms include tea and coffee making facilities and private terraces. Commune around a the crackling fire in the evening, after a sunset safari. Excellent dining and wildlife.
Mpumalanga (Sabi Sands, )
Dating back to the 1950s this 12 bedroom lodge provides an intimate stay amidst the famous Sabi Sands reserve. Four poster beds look out onto private terraces with far reaching views. Large en-suites include enormous carved stone baths. Lots of activities from safaris to stargazing. A great stay.
Mpumalanga
Private safari lodge located within the Kruger Park. Its grand colonial interiors create a refined ambience. Communal areas are filled with antiques and historic portraits. Rooms include a terrace with views of the surrounding wildlife, the best boast a private pool. Alfresco dining is superb.
Mpumalanga (EASTERN CAPE)
Started in 1983 this family-run private lodge boasts homely accommodation with plenty of luxuries. Each chalet includes its own private pool and decking area, so families and couples are afforded plenty of privacy. Tasty dishes are served throughout the day. Excellent wildlife spotting.
Mpumalanga (Greater Kruger Park, )
This five-star stay, nestled amidst the Kruger Park provides lavish interiors in a very grown-up setting. Choose between lounging by the pool, head out on an expertly led safari drive, or relax with a spa treatment - you can even 'sleep under the stars'. Superb dining. A great stay.
Malelane
Luxurious lodge, a short drive from the main gate to the Kruger Park. This full board stay provides guests with an opulent stay. Sprawling rooms look out across the plains, whilst bathrooms include tubs meant for soaking. All this plus fine dining, spa treatments, and a nearby golf course.
Mpumalanga (Sabi Sand Game Reserve, )
Nestled in an area of 50,000 hectares, on the western side of the Sabi Sands each of the 11 cottages provide sprawling accommodation in a secluded setting. Four poster beds and outdoor lounging, plus modern bathrooms: it's a very cosy stay. Local flavours and Western favourites are served.
Mpumalanga
Located on the edge of the Timbavati Private Nature Reserve, conservation has been at the heart of King's Lodge since the 1950s. Now a luxury lodge, welcoming guests to lend a hand with animal tracking and rhino chipping, whilst staying in very luxurious confines. Alfresco dining and opulent suites.
Mpumalanga
Five star stay in the midst of the Timbavati Game Reserve provides opulent interiors with colonial style tents filled with antiques. Each includes a private sit out with unparalleled views and bathrooms with roll-top baths. Fine dining plus excellent activities. An indulgent stay.
Mpumalanga (Sabi Sand Game Reserve)
Opulent safari accommodation, popular with couples wanting to get away from it all. Suites include capacious four-posters, enormous baths, indoor-outdoor living, and the best, private pools. Dine under the stars on a gourmet menu, wake up early for a sunrise safari drive. A luxurious stay.
Mpumalanga
One of South Africa's finest safari lodges guests are pampered beyond imagination. Gourmet dining, indulgent spa treatments, there is even treehouse accommodation for the ultimate romantic sleepover. Suites boast impressive views, indoor-outdoor living and enormous baths. Divine.
Mpumalanga
Award-winning lodgings, located in the Sabi Sand Game Reserve provides a five-star stay with private pools, an impressive wellness menu, and opulent suites with four-poster beds and luxurious bathrooms. Sample your choice of 'bush cuisine' or Western flavours, paired with an excellent wine list.
