Big Aspirations for Big Five Gateway

Named after the Nels River that runs through it, Nelspruit’s modern layout and wide streets do justice to the fast developing contemporary culture that the city accommodates. Here, all roads lead to a host of tourist attractions, including a crocodile farm, elephant sanctuary, the oldest caves on earth and a remarkable botanical garden.

It is also home to two airports - Nelspruit Airport and Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport, making the nearby Kruger National Park even more accessible. And it’s on route to Mozambique and the balmy delights of Maputo.

2010 Dreams Come True

Nelspruit will soon boast a new world-class stadium for the 2010 FIFA World Cup South Africa™. Due for completion in 2009, Mbombela Stadium will have seating capacity of 40,000 and bring a host of economic and employment benefits to the city, and its many football-loving citizens.

Chimpanzee Eden

Neatly tucked in on the fringes of the city is South Africa’s only Chimpanzee Rehabilitation Institute. Housed within the Umhloti Lodge estate on the road to Barberton is the Jane Goodall Institute (JGI), which opened its gates for these abused primates nearly 2 years ago.

Because Chimps share 95% of human DNA, it is not hard to believe that some of the battered animals rescued by the institute were full-blown alcoholics when they first arrived; having been used as depraved amusement in bars and restaurants. But now they are on the road to recovery and visitors can share an inspirational moment with their closest relatives.

Building a Legacy

For 20 years Philip Cronje was a curator at the Johannesburg Zoo, where the chimps were kept in the interim before JGI officially opened. When they moved to their present location, he came too.

But it was not plain sailing as there is a heated debate over this haven, with some arguing that it is not appropriate as chimps are not indigenous to South Africa.
Phillip, however, never backed down as his heart was set on building on the legacy of Jane Goodall in these exquisite valleys and hills.

Flower Power

Travellers can also recharge in Nelspruit’s exquisite surrounds. For this the area is jam-packed with accommodation options ranging from caravan parks, tent camps and backpacker lodges to hotels, guesthouses, private reserves and luxury lodges.

Those who love the plant world are especially well catered for, meaning floraphiles can have as much fun as those who are thrilled by the great diversity of fauna in the region. The spiritual author, Caitlin Matthews, said people keep their sense of proportion by regularly visiting the natural world. For this, the botanical garden is a great place to get in touch with the natural environment.

White River

A few kilometres from the botanical gardens, on the road to nearby White River is Rottcher Wineries with its range of delicious orange wines.

White River offers an array of wonderment, which is why it is regarded as the heart of Nelspruit’s arts and culture.

The Barnyard Theatre, at Casterbridge on the outskirts of the town, showcases performances by international acts and some of South Africa’s best local musicians, dancers, comedians and actors. The centre is also packed with arts and crafts shops, boutiques and coffee shops. And don’t forget the micro brewery, intimate cinema and motor museum on the premises.

Tastes of the Lowveld

White River is not just about arts and culture, but offers a range of culinary delights that bring visitors back time again. Opposite Casterbridge is the award-winning Salt; while in the town a Portuguese restaurant will awaken flavours in the soul.

There is an atmosphere of vigour at an Italian eatery where a master chef serves a piece of the Mediterranean on every plate. Elsewhere there are the tastes of the Middle East, India and the Deep South; with almost every restaurant incorporating a large terrace as it would be a shame to let the panoramic views go to waste.

Farm and roadside stalls on the outskirts of the city tempt with a wide variety of mouth-watering local produce.

Ancient Caves to Dinosaurs

There are also spectacular views below the surface. A short drive from Nelspruit, the Sudwala Caves, at 6000 million years old is believed to be the oldest in the world. The crystal tour is a must, as is a visit to the Sudwala dinosaur park that recreates the living world as it was when the caves were formed.

Laid Back Entertainment

Rated one of Mpumalanga's top courses, Nelspruit Golf Club is scenic and challenging, with a giant fig tree between the 6th and 18th fairways to further test your game. And, why not experience Nelspruit’s lush landscapes from above with a helicopter flip? Then there is the city’s abundant nightlife, including Emnotweni Casino with its vibrant entertainment complex.