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Nelspruit lies on the famous Crocodile River and is the capital of the Mpumalanga Province. The city was founded in 1905 by three brothers of the Nel family, who used the area for cattle grazing in winter. During the Boer War, Nelspruit served for a short time as the seat of government for the South African Republic (an independent Boer republic). The leadership of the South African republic included the famous Paul Kruger.

Nelspruit is a fairly large city, but still a pleasant environment to stay and visit, with rich areas of natural bush and lilac jacaranda and purple bougainvilla lining the roads. Nelspruit and the surrounding region is famous for its subtropical climate and its fertile soil. The region is able to produce many citrus and tropical fruits such as mango, banana, avocado, macadamia nuts and oranges.

Nelspruit is a major stopover point for tourists travelling to the Kruger National Park and to Mozambique. It is a very beautiful area and with many things to do and see around and about, and would make a great addition for any tourist. The city boasts the Lowveld Botanical Gardens, which showcases the first ever man-made forest. There are also many hidden wonders such as the San Art, which can be found in one of the city’s suburbs. The Sudwala caves, a dinosaur park and cultural centre will indulge your appetite of the prehistoric Africa.

Nelspruit is also home to the Nelspruit Nature Reserve which offers a variety of nature walks ranging from one to six hours. You can take in the breathtaking scenery, birds and small antelope whilst keeping fit at the same time. The mountains in and around Nelspruit also provide many other camping and hiking trails. If you like a little excitement and risk on your holiday, the Emnotweni casino is nearby.

The city boasts a wealth of accommodation such as guest houses, golf lodges, guest farms, self catering chalets and hotel spa’s.

Photograph thanks to Sito Wijngaarden

If you have more information, corrections or your own experience in this place, please post it below!