Mpumalanga – Kruger National Park, Blyde River Canyon, World Cup 2003

Mpumalanga is one of South Africa's top tourist destinations and there are few regions in the world to match the extraordinary beauty of the Lowveld and escarpment. The Province covers nearly 80 000km² from rolling highlands to the lofty escarpment and the lush wetlands. The 1870’s “Gold Rush” and fortune hunters have made this area rich in history. Places such as Barberton and Pilgrims Rest have become the most explored towns. The scenery is absolutely amazing and draws back tourists year after year.

Mpumalanga is also the home of the world famous Kruger National Park which is the largest game reserve in South Africa and covers nearly 2 million hectares of land or an area greater than the size of Israel. Outstanding variety of game, birds and wildlife can be viewed.

Mpumalanga’s Capital city, Nelspruit, is now flourishing due to its tobacco and timber industries. Nelspruit itself is a very trendy and modern city leading into historic towns (by contrast), intimidating mountains and gorgeous game sanctuaries. The Mbombela Stadium is also in Nelspruit which is one of the host cities for the FIFA World Cup 2003.

Not to miss is the Blyde River Canyon - a significant natural feature of South Africa. It is 26 kilometres in length and about 800 metres deep. It is the third deepest canyon in the world, after the Grand Canyon in the United States and the Fish Eagle Canyon in Namibia. It is the second largest canyon in Africa, and is known as one of the great wonders of nature on the continent.

Panorama Route - is one of the most popular visitor destinations in South Africa with outstanding beauty to be seen on route. The best time for ensuring a reliable clear view is in the dry winter months.

Accommodation in Mpumalanga:





Plumbago Guest House - Kruger National Park - luxurious suites http://www.where2stay-southafrica.com/info.php?lid=54





Helmon's Place – Ohrigstad - offers accommodation within 50km radius of Pilgrims Rest, Graskop, Blyde River & Lydenburg. http://www.where2stay-southafrica.com/info.php?lid=031





Old Joe's Kaia - Schoemanskloof Valley, Guest House http://www.where2stay-southafrica.com/info.php?lid=55



For more information on Mpumalanga please visit: http://www.where2stay-southafrica.com

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North West Province - World Cup 2003, Big 5, Sun City

The North West Province of South Africa is situated in the western Magaliesberg and provides plenty to see and do in the popular holiday destinations such as Rustenburg. Rustenburg, which translated literally means "town of rest", is the third oldest town of the former Transvaal Province. The city has been chosen as one of the host cities for the upcoming FIFA World Cup 2003 and will be staging games at the 40,000 Royal Bafekong Stadium previously used for the 1995 Rugby World Cup.

Just half an hour’s drive from here will find you at the glamorous Sun City complex and its enormous range of leisure options. The complex providing an excellent combination of golf, game and gambling, as well as world class hotels, is the perfect choice for any holiday in South Africa. Close by the Pilanesberg Game Reserve provides travellers an excellent chance of spotting the "Big Five".

To appreciate the history of this area then you should visit Mafikeng and in particular its museum, which has exhibits relating to the Siege of Mafeking, the Barolong people and San (Bushmen) which are interesting. In addition, the pretty towns of Lichtenburg, Klerksdorp and Potchefstroom are of particular interest.

At the Pilanesberg National Park, you will discover the crater of a long extinct volcano with an amazing alkaline complex created from activity over 1290 million years ago. This is one of the largest volcanic complexes in the world and its rare rock structure and type make it a unique geological feature. This area has survived ages of erosion and can be seen high above the surrounding bushveld plains. It is possible to see the early existence of man in the numerous Stone and Iron Age sites throughout the park.

On the park’s undulating hills and stretching open plains, you can get a glimpse of the 'Big Five', an abundance of animals and over 360 bird species. As well as the 'Big Five' you may also spot the nocturnal brown hyena, cheetah, hippo, crocodile and even sable.

Recommended accommodation in the North West:

Penderry Guesthouse – Rustenburg http://www.where2stay-southafrica.com/info.php?lid=143

4* Crystal Sands Guest House – Rustenburg http://www.where2stay-southafrica.com/info.php?lid=57

Stonehouse Mountain Lodge – Hartbeespoort http://www.where2stay-southafrica.com/info.php?lid=128





For more information on the North West and recommendation on accommodation, things to do and area information, please visit: http://www.where2stay-southafrica.com

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