5 Day Luxury Magical Mpumalanga Tour

Upon arrival at O.R. Tambo International Airport or another agreed meeting point in Johannesburg or Pretoria, guests are welcomed by their private African Sky guide. The journey begins eastward across the Highveld, where wide-open grasslands and farmlands stretch toward the horizon. As the route climbs into Mpumalanga, the scenery becomes increasingly dramatic, with rolling hills, wetlands, and high-altitude grassland characterizing this picturesque region.

Before reaching the village of Dullstroom, a visit is made to the Dullstroom Bird of Prey Center, established to promote awareness and conservation of South Africa’s indigenous raptors Here, guests gain insight into the vital role these birds play in the ecosystem while observing several species at close range. The day concludes at Walkersons Estate, a tranquil highland retreat set amid dams, streams, and open countryside. The late afternoon is spent at leisure, enjoying scenic walks, fly-fishing, or simply relaxing before dinner.

After breakfast, the day is devoted to exploring the famous Mpumalanga Panorama Route, widely regarded as one of South Africa’s most scenic touring regions. Stops include Bourke’s Luck Potholes, where centuries of swirling water have carved remarkable cylindrical rock formations, and viewpoints overlooking the vast Blyde River Canyon, one of the largest green canyons in the world. The towering Three Rondavels provide a striking focal point along this dramatic escarpment.

A visit to God’s Window offers breathtaking views from the edge of the Drakensberg Escarpment, often extending far across the Lowveld on clear days. A short walk through indigenous forest reveals lush vegetation and birdlife unique to this altitude. The journey then descends into warmer, subtropical Lowveld terrain, where farmland and orchards line the road. Arrival is at Highgrove House near Hazyview, a refined country retreat known for its fine dining and peaceful setting. The remainder of the afternoon is spent unwinding and enjoying the property’s amenities.

Following breakfast, the tour continues toward Kruger National Park, entering through the Paul Kruger Gate. Covering nearly two million hectares, Kruger is internationally renowned for its biodiversity and conservation success. A relaxed game drive through the southern region introduces guests to the park’s varied habitats, from riverine woodland to open savanna, with opportunities to spot antelope, giraffe, and a wide variety of bird species.

Arrival at Imbali Safari Lodge marks the transition from guided touring to a fully immersive safari experience. Situated in the private Mluwati Concession, the lodge enjoys exclusive traversing rights across a vast wilderness area. After lunch and time to settle in, guests depart on their first open 4x4 game drive with an experienced ranger and tracker. As the afternoon cools into evening, the chances of encountering elephant, buffalo, lion, and other iconic wildlife increase, creating a memorable introduction to Kruger safari life.

The day begins before sunrise with coffee and light refreshments, followed by an early morning game drive when wildlife activity is at its peak. Predators may still be on the move after nighttime hunts, while herbivores gather at water sources. Your ranger and tracker interpret animal behavior, tracks, and calls, offering a deeper understanding of the ecosystem and the delicate balance of life in the bush.

Returning to the lodge for a late breakfast, the remainder of the morning and midday hours are spent at leisure. Guests can relax in their suites, enjoy views over the surrounding wilderness, or take advantage of optional lodge activities. In the late afternoon, another safari drive sets out, concluding with sundowner drinks at a scenic viewpoint. As darkness falls, nocturnal species begin to emerge, adding excitement to the return drive beneath a star-filled African sky.

Your final morning begins with one last early game drive in Kruger National Park, providing a final opportunity to encounter wildlife as the bush awakens. This farewell safari often yields memorable sightings, from grazing plains game to predators retreating after a night of activity, and offers time for reflection on the experiences of the past few days.

After returning to the lodge for a relaxed late breakfast, guests have time to freshen up and enjoy final views of the surrounding wilderness. A transfer then follows to Skukuza Airport, where assistance is provided with departure arrangements for the onward flight to Johannesburg. This concludes a diverse Mpumalanga journey that seamlessly combines scenic Highlands, iconic escarpment viewpoints, and an immersive Kruger safari experience.