The Gert Sibande District is one of 3 districts in the Mpumalanga province. Formally known as the Eastvaal District Municipality, until 2004, the Gert Sibande District has many attractions that make it a must-see on your calendar of travel in 2023.
Whether you’re looking for some time out in nature, taking in some cultural heritage or exploring South Africa’s very own lake district, take a browse through the below, and head over to our social media pages for more information on what you can expect.
Nature Reserves and Hiking
Songimvelo Nature Reserve
A short way outside of Barberton, you’ll find a nature reserve that spans 48 000 hectares. The Songimvelo Nature Reserve is the largest in Mpumalanga, overlooking the Bulembu Mountains and leading into the Komati River Valley.
Here you’ll find 4 of the Big Five, and plenty of bird and plant species to keep your eyes wide open!
Nooitgedacht Dam Nature Reserve
The Nooitgedacht Dam is just 10 km's outside of Carolina in Mpumalanga and the ideal game viewing retreat. Take the family for a trip to a new destination this year and enjoy a host of buck species along with flowers, birds and beautiful greenery.
Suikerboschfontein Hiking Trails
If you’re one of the more adventurous at heart then the Suikerboschfontein hiking trails are just the right thing for you and yours! Think crystal clear streams, rock formations that will have you talking for days, and ravines that will leave you breathless. Only 20 km's outside of Carolina, you’ll even be spoiled with ancient rock art. Be sure to come prepared for a half or full day hike.
Giant Mushroom Rock - Batwa Valley
It may sound strange, but the Great Mushroom Rock is a sight to behold! It’s a feature on the Highveld tourism map that you do not want to miss out on, and one which should be on your bucket list. Situated in the Batwa Valley Region, the Giant Mushroom Rock symbolises the beginnings of humankind and dates back to times of the San, marked with history.
Goliath’s Footprint
Picture this… a giant footprint in the side of a rockface, in the middle of South Africa’s Mpumalanga Region. WOW! There are stories to behold behind the giant footprint, named Goliath’s Footprint, situated in the small village of Lothair, Mpumalanga. This Heritage Site is over 100 million years old - if you don’t believe it looks like a foot with 5 toes, then you should go see for yourself on an epic Mpumalanga adventure!
Cultural Heritage
Ebutsini Cultural Village - A True African Experience
Culture is at the heart of South Africa. Wherever you go and where you look, you’ll see signs of rich cultural heritage. THe Ebutsini Cultural Village will offer a truly African experience in the heart of the African bushveld. The perfect spot for your next business getaway, set with comfortable chalets and conference facilities.
Towns and Regions
Wakkerstroom
There is history to behold in Wakkerstroom - the second oldest town in Mpumalanga. Take a trip to Wakkerstroom and you’ll not only be spoiled with rich history and knowledge, but with bird life that is hard to compare. Wakkerstroom is internationally acclaimed as a ‘birder's paradise’!
Chrissiesmeer
We’ve touched on the gorgeous region of Chrissiesmeer in a previous blog (
Between small villages, lakes, birds, game viewing, historical learning and hiking - the Gert Sibande District is waiting for your visit!
