For history and heritage go to Mpumalanga, home of Pilgrims Rest and stunning rock formations, and where water runs and the mist can be as thick as pea soup after it rains. Gold was first found in Pilgrim’s Rest, Graskop, Sabie and Barberton in the late 1800s and encouraged an influx of fortune hunters to the region.

When mining was exhausted, farming took over and Mpumalanga is known for its delicious fruit and nut farms (avos, macadamias, oranges, mangoes, litchis and more). Timber companies moved in too and much of the original grassland has been converted into commercial forestry.

Wood creates huge income for the province including tourism – people love to see God’s Window, Long Tom’s Pass, Bourke’s Luck Potholes, Kruger National Park and more! Indulge in delicious pancakes in this 80 000 square kilometer province - or shop at the many farm stalls. Outdoors, hiking, cycling and mountaineering keep adventurers busy on the lofty escarpment while birders and nature lovers walk the rolling grasslands in search of the Blue Swallow and Blue Crane.  

For those who prefer the ancient history of people in South Africa, hundreds of San rock art paintings can be found by walking the hills and mountains of Mpumalanga – preferably with a guide. The rock art sites have also provided a visual link to our cultural and natural history – living museums that talk to the soul and remind us of who we are and how we should live.