Located near Kruger National Park, this South African city has a central market, museums, and restaurants. Visitors can go on safaris, play golf, or try white-water rafting.
Mbombela, formerly known as Nelspruit, is the capital of South Africa's Mpumalanga province. The city lies along the Crocodile River, with granite hills rising around it. You can walk through a man-made rainforest at the Lowveld National Botanical Garden, descend into million-year-old Sudwala Caves, or drive 60 kilometers to spot wildlife in Kruger National Park.
Getting to Mbombela
You can fly into Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport, which connects to Johannesburg with multiple daily flights. By car, take the N4 highway from Pretoria or Maputo. Translux and Greyhound buses run daily routes between Mbombela and other major South African cities.
Climate and Best Time to Visit
Winter days (June to August) stay mild at 22°C to 25°C. Summer temperatures climb into the high 30s, with rain falling from October to March. Plan your visit during winter to explore comfortably without the summer humidity and rain.
Lowveld National Botanical Garden
Walk through 154 hectares of gardens along the Crocodile River's eastern bank. The garden grows more than 650 plant species, including South Africa's biggest collection of indigenous ferns. You'll find a man-made rainforest and a natural waterfall at the meeting point of the Crocodile and Nels Rivers. The garden hosts concerts and events throughout the year.
Sudwala Caves
These caves rank among the world's oldest cave systems. Walk through chambers filled with limestone formations, including stalactites and stalagmites. The adjacent Dinosaur Park and Cultural Centre displays life-size models of prehistoric animals and early humans, surrounded by ancient cycad plants.
Shopping and Markets
Mbombela has grown into a major shopping destination for locals and visitors from Mozambique and Eswatini. You'll find international and local brands at Riverside and Ilanga malls. The Crossing Shopping Center and City Center add to the city's retail options.
Mbombela Stadium
This 43,500-seat stadium, built for the 2010 FIFA World Cup, stands out with its steel supports shaped like giraffe necks - a nod to local wildlife. Today, it's home to the Pumas rugby team and hosts regular sports events throughout the year.
Agricultural Center
Farmers in the surrounding area grow citrus fruits, tobacco, peanuts, mangoes, and avocados, thriving in the warm climate and rich soil. The city processes and distributes agricultural products across northeastern South Africa through its processing facilities and distribution centers.
