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The true measure of a society's greatness is in how it preserves and protects its wildlife, for a nation that cares for its natural treasures ensures a future where all life can thrive. S O U T H A F R I C A and Africa A W o r l d i n O n e C o u n t r y Serengeti National Park, Tanzania MalaMala Game Reserve, South Africa Moremi Game Reserve, Botswana Masai Mara National Reserve, Kenya Queen Elizabeth National Park Katavi National Park Mana Pools National Park, Zimbabwe Okavango Delta, Botswana South Luangwa National Park, Zambia Kruger National Park Laikipia Plateau Ruaha National Park Northern Damaraland Lower Zambezi National Park, Zambia Ngorongoro Crater, Tanzania The Sabi Sands Game Reserve Etosha National Park Hluhluwe Game Reserve Central Kalahari Game Reserve Nyerere National Park Serengeti National Park, Tanzania Coming in at number one is Serengeti National Park, in northern Tanzania. The Serengeti shares a border with Kenya’s Maasai Mara National Reserve (which we will chat about more when you reach the number 10 spot on this list). Serengeti’s sprawling grasslands make for those classic safari views with flat-topped acacia trees and grazing herds of zebra and antelope. These grazing herds attract large numbers of predators, and the open plains make for a fantastic destination to watch lions and cheetahs in action. The Serengeti is also home to the annual Great Migration, in which over one million wildebeest and hundreds of thousands of other ungulates make their over-600-mile circular trek. The animals travel from their breeding grounds in the south to fresh pastures in the north, all the while with predators hot on their heels. The Great Migration is one of the most impressive natural events in the world. As an exciting and special bonus, black rhinos were reintroduced into the Serengeti, some in 2010 and more in 2019, and earlier this year, a black rhino calf was born to one of the reintroduced females — the first black rhino birth in the park for decades. Nomad Tanzania has the beautiful Serengeti Safari Camp which is the perfect location to catch the wildebeest migration. Mana Pools National Park, Zimbabwe Mana Pools National Park is one of the most picturesque safaris in Africa. It’s known for its huge elephant population. This safari is also a great destination for adventurous people who want to spot leopards, wild dogs, and lions. One of the best appeals of this park is you can stay in unfenced campsites located in the middle of the wilderness. If you want to stay in this type of accommodation, choose one located near the Zambezi river for the ultimate experience. If you’re up for something unique, go on a canoeing safari. Mana Pools is one of the few parks in Africa where you can explore without a guide, although this is not ideal for beginners. If you’re up for game drives and bush walks, this is an amazing safari. The thin vegetation of this park makes it one of the best destinations for walking safaris because it offers incredible visibility. For those who want to try self-drive tours, a 4×4 is recommended. What’s great about 4×4 tours is that even the drive is exhilarating! Next on our list, we have Mana Pools National Park in the far north of Zimbabwe. The Zambezi River’s wide waters form the boundary between Zimbabwe and Zambia. On the southern Zimbabwean side is Mana Pools National Park, a stunning UNESCO World Heritage Site and a park known for fantastic wildlife visibility beside the river and flood plains. (On the northern bank is Zambia’s Lower Zambezi National Park, which we will focus on when we reach number 5 in our countdown). Mana is the Shona (local language) word for four, and within the park, the river channels have created four large pools, giving the park its name. These pools are surrounded by forests of mahogany, wild fig, ebony, and winter thorns. In the dry season, the shady glades beneath these trees are filled with wildlife — herds of impala, eland, elephant, zebra, buffalo, waterbuck, and kudu. These animals provide a plentiful supply of prey for both predators and scavengers. There are several sizable prides of lion as well as leopards and hyenas. Mana Pools is also a stronghold for wild dogs. Mana Pools National Park is the perfect place for walking and canoeing safaris. David Attenborough’s wildlife series for the BBC, “Dynasties ,” filmed the episode about wild dogs in the park. I have spent hours watching these same wild dogs and I can promise you the park is the perfect place to go to spot this endangered African animal. African Bush Camps have three fantastic lodges in Mana Pools, each in a different park area. MalaMala Game Reserve, South Africa MalaMala is the oldest and one of the largest private Big Five game reserves in South Africa. It covers 37 000 acres, shares a 12-mile unfenced boundary with the world-renowned Kruger National Park, and is sandwiched in a prime position between the Kruger and the Sabi Sands Reserve, giving it great access to abundant wildlife. In the local language, Xitsonga, the name Malamala means Kudu, and the area got its name from the abundance of these majestic, spiral-horned antelope within the game reserve. The reserve is also home to the Big Five and is famous for luxury photographic safaris. MalaMala is the place to start your search for accommodation within the reserve. As one of the best safaris in Africa, Mala Mala Game Reserve is one of the best places to see lions in their natural habitat. Mala Mala borders the Kruger National Park, the largest game reserve in South Africa. The big five thrive in this private luxury game reserve, together with cheetahs, giraffes, and wild dogs. During the dry season, particularly during May, this is the ultimate spot to see a variety of animals, including: Wildebeests Hippos Hyenas Cheetahs Giraffes Zebras Cape wild dogs This park is also considered a top destination for photographers. The terrain is different from the Kruger, as it’s flat, making it perfect for game drives. You can spot the lions during the day while they rest in their dens or at night when they go to the watering holes. Another reason why Mala Mala Game Reserve is one of the best safaris in Africa is that you can also do bushwalks. Here, you will enjoy seeing the wild dogs and cheetahs up close. Night safaris are also safe and popular at this world-class park. Okavango Delta, Botswana The Okavango Delta covers permanent marshlands, as well as seasonally flooded plains. The delta is a series of connected rivers and lakes, home to diverse wildlife, including: Cheetahs Crocodiles Lions Black and white rhinoceros It’s one of the major interior delta systems that don’t flow into the ocean, and its wetland system is almost unbroken. The Okavango Delta is also an excellent destination if you want to do bird sightings. You might get lucky and see some rare birds. If you’re into photography, this safari will blow your mind away with its beauty. The Okavango Delta is a vast inland river delta in northern Botswana. The area is known for its sprawling grassy plains, which flood seasonally, becoming a lush animal habitat. The delta supports an astonishing variety of wildlife. The best time to visit is during the annual flood, when many of the animals are confined to islands created by the floodwaters, making them easier to spot. Highlights include great herds of elephant and antelope, hippos, crocodiles, lions, and cheetah. Many of the birds spotted here are endemic. The most exciting way to explore the area is by traditional dugout canoe (mokoro), which I first did in my early twenties, navigating past hippos, elephants, and crocodiles, and spending several nights camping on tiny islands. About 40 percent of the Okavango Delta is in the Moremi Game Reserve, on the eastern edge of the Delta, and we will focus on that when we reach number 6. Very much the center of Botswana’s safari industry, the Okavango Delta features some of Africa’s premier camps. A good place to start your accommodation search is with Wilderness Safaris who has several beautiful luxury lodges in the Okavango Delta. Lower Zambezi National Park, Zambia If you follow the Zambezi River about 300 miles downstream of the Victoria Falls, opposite Zimbabwe’s Mana Pools, you will find the pristine wilderness of Zambia’s Lower Zambezi National Park. An area of abundant wildlife, from herds of elephants to soaring fish eagles and everything in between. A hunting ground for lions, leopards, and wild dogs. A timeless valley of giant towering winter thorns where wildlife finds sanctuary in the dappled shade. The area’s beauty lies in its wildness and the spectacular opportunities to get up close to the game that wanders in and out of the Zambezi’s channels. The river is home to hippos and crocodiles and is the perfect place for sunset boat trips, trawling for the coveted tiger fish, and one of my favorite activities, canoeing safaris. I have traveled the length of the Lower Zambezi National Park by both road and river, and can highly recommend this beautiful park. Anabezi has three fantastic lodges along this stretch of the river and is a great place to start planning your trip. Another Zambian park you should add to your list is the Lower Zambezi National. It’s one of the best safaris in Africa today, as it has recovered from poaching , although its rhino population was erased. The Lower Zambezi is home to various animals and birds, including the big five and several other species. There are also many bird species that you can find here, including: Blacksmith Lapwings Southern ground hornbills African jacanas Keep in mind that you won’t find any campsites in the area, just mid-range and luxury lodges, as well as tented camps. Moremi Game Reserve, Botswana If you’re looking for an incredible game reserve in Botswana, then the Moremi Game Reserve is the best destination for you. This safari is part of the Okavango Delta, known as the world’s 1000th UNESCO World Heritage Site . This game reserve is renowned for four of the big five, and you’ll probably see plenty of them during your safari. It also houses more than 400 bird species. Game viewing is also popular here. The best time to visit this game reserve is during the dry season, from June to September. You can also explore the wilderness on a mokoro canoe safari or a walking safari. As you gaze upon the floodplains and baobab trees, you’ll feel the grandeur of nature. Coming in at number six, Moremi Game Reserve is a protected wildlife area in Botswana. It lies on the Okavango Delta’s eastern side and was named after Chief Moremi of the BaTawana tribe. Moremi was designated as a game reserve, rather than a national park, when it was created, which meant that the BaSarwa or Bushmen who lived there were allowed to remain in the reserve. Among other animals, the reserve is home to cheetah, white and black rhinoceros (rarely seen), wild dogs, lions, and over 500 bird species. This ecosystem is amongst the richest in Africa. Island Safari Lodge is an ideal jumping-off point for a trip into Moremi, and they also offer fantastic mobile safaris into the reserve, which I have done with my family and thoroughly enjoyed. Let this small but diverse area blow you away with its wildlife. South Luangwa National Park, Zambia South Luangwa National Park is one of the ultimate destinations in Zambia if you want to witness the wildlife, which includes endemic species such as Thornicroft’s giraffe and Crawshay’s zebra. There are also lions, leopards, and elephants in the area. The park houses tons of beautiful tented camps, lodges, and other accommodations, which can get busy during peak season. If you want to see this park, be sure to plan and book in advance. This park is famous for its walking safaris led by expert guides. The best time to visit is from July to October during the dry season. This period is when animals come out from the high-temperature bush areas to look for water in the rivers. In eastern Zambia, South Luangwa National Park plays host to huge concentrations of wildlife, including elephant, buffalo, lion, giraffe, hippo — over 450 species of bird and 60 species of mammal! South Luangwa is also arguably the best place in Africa to see leopards. South Luangwa is known for incredible walking safaris that give you the chance to get up close to the park’s wildlife. There is something incredibly special about a safari on foot — no noise from vehicles, just the crunch of dry grass underfoot. Your senses are heightened; you see and hear things that you have never noticed before. You become conscious of how loud your breath sounds in your ears as you try hard to walk silently through the bush. For an expertly guided walking safari in South Luangwa, you can’t go wrong with Surefoot Safaris . Ngorongoro Crater, Tanzania The Ngorongoro Crater formed when a giant volcano exploded and collapsed in on itself two or three million years ago, creating a crater 2,000 feet deep and a 64,000-acre floor. The Ngorongoro Crater is home to an exceptional concentration of fauna; it is estimated that over 25,000 large animals live here (I’m not including birds, insects, or reptiles in this count!), including huge herds of wildebeests and zebras. There is also no shortage of predators, with the crater being home to lion, hyena, cheetah, jackal, caracals, bat-eared foxes, and more. A definite highlight is the healthy population of black rhino and some of the largest tusker elephants on the continent. The lake at the center of the crater hosts huge flocks of rose-colored flamingos, while Maasai tribespeople still live within the conservation area. Given its size, the Ngorongoro Crater really only needs a day or two of your travel time, and is best as part of a larger East African itinerary, perhaps combining the wildlife wonders of the Crater w with the migration spectacle of the Serengeti or the laid-back beaches of Zanzibar. I often take a day trip to Ngorongoro as a break at the end of a Kilimanjaro climb. As a taste of luxury, perhaps try Ngorongoro Crater Lodge for a special visit to this fantastic place. The Sabi Sands Game Reserve Sabi Sand Game Reserve is located near the southern Kruger and is a cluster of private reserves. This wide-open savannah is a big attraction for game drives and walks. The big five are among the most common animals you’ll see in the reserve. Sabi Sand Game Reserve is also a top spot for those who want to experience close encounters with: White rhinos Lions Cheetahs Moreover, this reserve is popular because of its amazing night drive experiences, where you’ll see nocturnal animals, such as: Civets Aardvarks Bushbabies The game reserve is also known for its outstanding birdlife. If you like bird watching, you’ll be in for a treat here. It’s recommended to visit this destination during the winter or low season, from May to September. The Sabi Sands Game Reserve is a 160,000-acre reserve pioneered by local landowners in the 1950s and shares a 31-mile-long unfenced border with the world-renowned Kruger National Park. Known for delivering excellent Big Five game viewing, with some extraordinary close encounters and prolific sightings, particularly of the elusive leopard, this area is considered one of the best safari areas in South Africa. Sabi Sands offers a variety of accommodation options to suit everyone and every budget. As there are several lodges to choose from in the game reserve, visit Sabi Sands to start planning your trip. Masai Mara National Reserve, Kenya The Masai forest is one of the most popular safari destinations in Africa. Located in the Great Rift Valley, this expansive wilderness hosts the Big Five, as well as a large population of cheetahs and wild dogs. The game drives are amazing here because the area is known for its high density of animal population. There are plenty of safari lodges in this national reserve, and people usually book months or even years in advance. If you want to see a few of the big five in their natural habitat, then the Masai Mara national reserve is worth considering. Aside from animals, you’ll also love its majestic rolling hills, acacia woodlands, and grasslands. Make sure to visit between August and October if you want to witness the wildebeest migration as they cross to Kenya from Tanzania. Last but not least, and located in the extreme southwest of Kenya, on the border with Tanzania, is the Maasai Mara National Reserve. Covering over 580 square miles, this quintessential safari destination is home to the Big Five and is famous for its thriving big cat populations. Special Maasai Mara experiences include hot air balloon safaris, visits to local Maasai villages, and of course, the Great Migration, which is when the Mara is a pit stop for almost two million wildebeest, zebra, and antelope crossing from Tanzania across the mighty Mara River on their death-defying, 1,800-mile circular journey. In fact, these herds are so big they can be observed from space. The Maasai Mara is a photographer’s paradise, with year-round game viewing, incredible big cat sightings, and large concentrations of elephant, buffalo, and giraffe. Governors’ Camp was the first permanent tented camp in the Masai Mara, and it occupies some of the best wildlife viewing locations in the reserve. There is nothing quite like the thrill of an African safari. The stillness of the early morning, before the heat of the sun covers the land. The sound of wild creatures calling in the night. The sense of adventure that comes from being surrounded by untamed wilderness. Above all, it’s the excitement of being in the bush, never quite knowing what new sights, sounds, and experiences the day will bring. I’ve given you a tiny taste of 10 of the most popular safari destinations on the continent. Choose one of these for your next African adventure and you won’t be disappointed. Kruger National Park If this is your first-time safari, you don’t want to miss the chance to see wildlife in their natural habitat, which is precisely what you’ll find in the Kruger National Park . At over 7,500 square miles, this park is roughly the size of a small country! Known as one of the world’s greatest game-viewing areas, the Kruger National Park offers a truly unique experience. The big five thrive in this national park, but there are plenty of other animals to see, including: Cheetahs Hippos Nile crocodiles The rare black rhino The best time to visit this park is from June to September. Etosha National Park Namibia may not be on the top list for most travelers in Africa, but once you’ve visited the Etosha National Park, you’ll change your mind. It was proclaimed a national park in 1907 . It’s named after the Ovambo word that means “the place where no plants grow,” an ode to the Etosha Pan, which is a part of a lake that has dried out. It’s so large that you can see it from space! One of the best activities for safari-goers in this national park is to stake out in a spring-fed waterhole and wait for animals to arrive. The Etosha National Park boasts a beautiful panorama of the dolomite hills and the arid savannas. This park is also renowned for the big five and its rhino conservation, both for the reintroduced white rhino and the indigenous black rhinoceros. At Etosha National Park, you’ll also see cheetahs, caracals, jackals, and hyenas. Laikipia Plateau If you’re the adventurous type, you’ll love the Laikipia Plateau. The Laikipia Plateau is an expansive plain home to plenty of wildlife, including: Grevy’s zebras Wild dogs Giraffes Black rhinos The best way to explore this expansive piece of land is by riding on a camel, which is a fun way to see the vast plains. You can also explore the park by riding a horse or during guided walking safaris. During the dry season, there’s plenty of water that fills watering holes for animals to come and drink. This attraction makes this safari particularly interesting for photography enthusiasts who want to capture the animals in their natural habitat. Hluhluwe Game Reserve The Hluhluwe Game Reserve is located in South Africa, and it’s one of the oldest reserves in the area. The Hluhluwe Game Reserve is a good safari destination to take in the natural beauty of the flora and fauna. The game reserve is best known for its amazing plants and wildlife. It is home to the “Big Five,” and dozens of other mammals, reptiles, and birds. A highlight of this safari is the Hluhluwe River, which is a popular spot for game viewing. There are plenty of animals in this 96,000-hectare reserve, and you can also visit the nearby Mkhuze Game Reserve. For adventurers, make sure to ride 4x4s along its dusty roads. The park also offers boat safaris. Queen Elizabeth National Park The Queen Elizabeth National Park is located in Uganda. It’s one of the most diverse parks in the country and is located near the famous Murchison Falls . The park is known for encompassing different landscapes, which are all home to various species of wildlife. These landscapes include: Mountains Swamps Crater lakes Tropical forests Open savannahs Wetlands The park is home to elephants, buffalos, giant forest hogs, and the African skimmer, which is a unique bird with a lengthy wingspan. The park also has boat cruises for those who want to see crocodiles and hippos. If you want to see chimpanzees, you can take a hike in the park’s rainforest. Ruaha National Park This Tanzanian park was proclaimed a national park in 1964 . This off-the-beaten-track destination takes its name from the Hehe word for “river,” which serves as its lifeline. This park is home to: Impalas Waterbucks Gazelles You may even see lions, cheetahs, hyenas, and jackals looking for prey. This safari is a great option to see large predators because it is home to ten percent of Africa’s lions. It’s also home to many bird species, such as: The crested Barbet The pale-billed Hornbill The Dickinson’s kestrel The racket-tailed roller All of these incredible features make this park one to add to the travel bucket list. Central Kalahari Game Reserve Central Kalahari Game Reserve is one of the most popular game reserves in Botswana. It was established in 1961 as a home for the Bushman tribes. It covers an area of 52,800 square kilometers, which is over ten percent of the country’s area. This expansive space of land makes it the second-largest game reserve globally. This game reserve is a great option for those who want to see the big five. You’ll probably see a few wild dogs as well. The reserve is also home to an amazing variety of bird species. Nyerere National Park The Nyerere National Park, formerly called Selous Game Reserve, is found in Tanzania. It was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1982 thanks to its diverse wildlife, including: The African bush elephant African Lion Hippopotamus East African wild dog The black rhino There is no permanent human habitation in the park, and all human entry is controlled by the Tanzanian Ministry of Natural Resources and Tourism’s wildlife division. When you visit this park, you can expect to see crocodiles and hippos during your boat safari. There are also many species of birds here for avid birdwatchers, so bring your binoculars! Katavi National Park If seeing large herds of buffalo ranks high on your list, the Katavi National Park is a must-visit. This huge park is located in northern Tanzania, and the park is known for its large population of buffalo. Katavi National Park is one of Tanzania’s largest national parks, and despite being a safari mecca for those who want to see wildlife, it doesn’t get as much traffic as other safaris. Because of this, the park authorities grant guests freedom, especially those who crave adventure. You can even go on a walking safari with an armed ranger, as well as try self-drive tours. Northern Damaraland This part of Africa is remote and mostly uninhabited by humans. Northern Damaraland is home to lions, Hartmann’s mountain zebras, black rhinos, and awe-striking rare desert-adapted elephants. This variety of animals makes it one of the top safari choices in Africa for people who are craving a unique experience they won’t forget. Despite the remoteness of northern Damaraland, you can still find safari lodges that will suit your needs that are perfect for experienced travelers. If you visit this safari, make sure not to miss the famous rock art at Twyfelfontein, another UNESCO World Heritage Site. Things to Consider To ensure your experience in the best safari in Africa is top-notch, there are a few things you need to bear in mind. First, you must consider the animals you want to see, especially if you want to see the famous “Big Five.” You should consider the time of year you want to visit. If you don’t like crowds and want a relaxing safari, you should consider going during the off-season. Keep in mind that the weather may not be as good during those times of the year. It’s also a good idea to get professional tour guides, who will ensure you get the most out of the safari. Most safaris offer professional guides, but it’s a smart move to double-check before you book. Don’t forget to bring a camera and binoculars so you can snap great pictures and observe wildlife from a distance. Most importantly, bring plenty of water and snacks, as well as some comfortable clothes. Other things you should not forget to pack include: Sunscreen Flashlight Insect repellent Prescription medications Extra batteries for your camera Comfortable closed shoes Sunglasses Hat If you’re traveling during winter, you should throw a windbreaker in your suitcase. Frequently Asked Questions THP Creative/Shutterstock Here are some of the most commonly asked questions by travelers who want to experience the best safaris in Africa: Which African country has the best safari? There are a lot of safaris in Africa that offer a unique experience. The best safari in Africa is usually based on the animal you want to see. However, many people think that Botswana, Zambia, and South Africa have the best safaris on the continent. What safari is best for families? Many families enjoy traveling to the Kruger National Park, but most safaris are very family-friendly. Whether you want to go for a family vacation or want a romantic getaway, safaris offer a wide variety of activities for everyone. Which is the best month to go on an African safari? It depends on what you are looking for during your getaway. Different safaris could offer different experiences. Generally, the dry season is recommended. The dry season is from June to October and is perfect if you want to see animals looking for water sources. What is the average cost of an African safari trip? It depends on what your budget is. Many safaris offer per person pricing of $150 to $1,500 per day. Mid-range safaris usually fall between $250 to $350. Is Kenya or Tanzania better for safari? Kenya is a more popular and affordable safari destination, although both countries offer a great safari experience. However, there are a lot of luxury safaris in Tanzania if you prefer a vacation that feels more glamorous. BACK TO TOP

The Northern Cape Northern Cape, province, western South Africa . It is bordered to the north by Namibia and Botswana ; to the east by North West , Free State , and Eastern Cape provinces; to the south and southwest by Western Cape province; and to the west by the Atlantic Ocean . Northern Cape was administratively created out of northern and central Cape of Good Hope province in 1994. Kimberley is the provincial capital. Northern Cape’s eastern half and southwest form part of the Highveld, an arid plateau that gradually rises to the Great Escarpment (more than 6,000 feet [1,900 metres] in elevation) along the province’s southern border. To the northwest is desert, including the sand dunes of Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park , a conservation area jointly managed by South Africa and Botswana. The Orange River traverses the province from east to west and provides water for irrigation. The Orange is joined by one of its main tributaries, the Vaal River , near Douglas, in the east. In the west, near the Namibian border, the river plunges in a series of cataracts and rapids at Augrabies Falls , a total drop of more than 600 feet (183 metres). Thornveld is the natural vegetation of the province, and the climate is generally hot and arid. Annual rainfall increases from 4 inches (100 mm) in the west to about 14 inches (350 mm) in the east. Northern Cape is the largest and most sparsely populated province of South Africa. About half of the population is of mixed race. Blacks make up about one-third of the population, and whites constitute about one-tenth. Afrikaans is by far the most widely used language, spoken by about two-thirds of the population. Tswana is spoken by about one-fifth of the population. Several other languages are also spoken, including Xhosa and English. More than two-thirds of the population live in urban areas. The major urban centres are Kimberley and Upington. Annual spring wildflower display, Northern Cape province, South Africa. Merino sheep are raised in the south and Karakul sheep in the north, and cattle graze throughout the province. Pig raising and horse breeding are also practiced. Wheat, alfalfa (lucerne), cotton, peanuts (groundnuts), citrus fruit, and grapes are grown under irrigation. There are vineyards in the north. Winter rains in the western part of the province sustain an abundance of wildflowers. Mining is an important industry in Northern Cape. Major copper mines are located in Nababeep, Okiep, and Aggeneys. Diamonds are recovered throughout the province. Many diamonds and other precious stones are mined in the arid region of Namaqualand in the west, along the Atlantic coast. Kimberley, in the east, is well known for its diamond-mining past and is still a centre for mining and cutting diamonds. Northern Cape province produces almost all of the manganese mined in South Africa. Tungsten, zinc, lead, asbestos, iron ore, and limestone are also extracted at various locations. Area 143,973 square miles (372,889 square km). Pop. (2009 est.) 1,147, 600. Kuruman, town, Northern Cape province, South Africa . It is located in the northeastern corner of the province and is distantly southwest of Johannesburg. Originally a missionary station (1821), it later became an area of white settlement (town founded, 1885; incorporated, 1916). The town is chiefly known for a local spring—the Eye of Kuruman—which rises in a cave in this otherwise semidesert thornveld area and supplies at least 4,500,000 gallons (17,000,000 l) daily. Kuruman is also known for its dairy cattle and trade in butter. Pop. (2001) 9,823. Namaqualand Karoo-Namib shrubland Tree aloes and other succulents growing in the Karoo-Namib shrubland in Namaqualand, South Africa. Namaqualand, geographic region , southwestern Africa, extending from near Windhoek , Namibia, southward into Northern Cape province, South Africa, and from the Namib desert eastward to the Kalahari . The area, inhabited by the Nama before the German occupation of the region in the 19th century, is divided by the Orange River into Little Namaqualand in South Africa and Great Namaqualand in Namibia . The region is primarily desert, with annual precipitation averaging between 2 and 8 inches (50 and 200 mm). Namaqualand The South African portion of Namaqualand lies in Northern Cape province. Its chief town is Springbok. From 1908 most of the western part of Namaqualand in Namibia was marked off as Sperrgebiet (German: “Prohibited Area”), which could not be entered without a pass. The Sperrgebiet was extremely rich in diamonds, the mining of which was strictly controlled; parts of the area are still mined. The Sperrgebiet is also known for its unique flora. In 2004 the Namibian government, hoping to increase tourism, announced plans to open some 60 percent of the area and establish it as a national park. The Sperrgebiet National Park formally opened in 2009. Coordinates : 30°S 22°E The Northern Cape (Afrikaans : Noord-Kaap [ˈnuərtkɑːp] ; Tswana : Kapa Bokone; Xhosa : Mntla-Koloni) is the largest and most sparsely populated province of South Africa . It was created in 1994 when the Cape Province was split up. Its capital is Kimberley . It includes the Kalahari Gemsbok National Park , part of the Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park and an international park shared with Botswana . It also includes the Augrabies Falls and the diamond mining regions in Kimberley and Alexander Bay . The Namaqualand region in the west is famous for its Namaqualand daisies . The southern towns of De Aar and Colesberg found within the Great Karoo are major transport nodes between Johannesburg , Cape Town and Gqeberha . Kuruman can be found in the north-east and is known as a mission station. It is also well known for its artesian spring and Eye of Kuruman . The Orange River flows through the province, forming the borders with the Free State in the southeast and with Namibia to the northwest. The river is also used to irrigate the many vineyards in the arid region near Upington . Native speakers of Afrikaans comprise a higher percentage of the population in the Northern Cape than in any other province. The Northern Cape's four official languages are Afrikaans, Tswana , Xhosa , and English . Minorities speak the other official languages of South Africa and a few people speak indigenous languages such as Nama and Khwe . The provincial motto, Sa ǁa ǃaĩsi 'uĩsi ("We go to a better life"), is in the Nǀu language of the Nǁnǂe (ǂKhomani) people. It was given in 1997 by one of the language's last speakers, Ms. Elsie Vaalbooi of Rietfontein , who has since died. It was South Africa's first officially registered motto in a Khoisan language . Subsequently, South Africa's national motto , ǃKe e ǀxarra ǁke, was derived from the extinct ǀXam language . History Main article: History of the Northern Cape The Northern Cape was one of three provinces made out of the Cape Province in 1994, the others being Western Cape to the south and Eastern Cape to the southeast. Politically, it had been dominated since 1994 by the African National Congress (ANC).[6] Ethnic issues are important in the politics of the Northern Cape. For example, it is the site of the Orania settlement, whose leaders have called for a Volkstaat for the Afrikaner people in the province. The Northern Cape is also the home of over 1,000 San who emigrated from Namibia following the independence of the country; they had served as trackers and scouts for the South African Defence Force during the South African Border War , and feared reprisals from their former foes. They were awarded a settlement in Platfontein in 1999 by the Mandela government. The precolonial history of the Northern Cape is reflected in a rich, mainly Stone Age, archaeological heritage . Cave sites include Wonderwerk Cave near Kuruman, which has a uniquely long sequence stretching from the turn of the twentieth century at the surface to more than 1 million (and possibly nearly 2 million) years in its basal layer (where stone tools , occurring in very low density, may be Oldowan ). Many sites across the province, mostly in open air locales or in sediments alongside rivers or pans, document Earlier, Middle and Later Stone Age habitation. From Later Stone Age times, mainly, there is a wealth of rock art sites – most of which are in the form of rock engravings such as at Wildebeest Kuil and many sites in the area known as ǀXam -ka !kau , in the Karoo. They occur on hilltops, slopes, rock outcrops and occasionally (as in the case of Driekops Eiland near Kimberley), in a river bed. In the north eastern part of the province there are sites attributable to the Iron Age such as Dithakong . Environmental factors have meant that the spread of Iron Age farming westwards (from the 17th century – but dating from the early first millennium AD in the eastern part of South Africa) was constrained mainly to the area east of the Langeberg Mountains, but with evidence of influence as far as the Upington area in the eighteenth century. From that period the archaeological record also reflects the development of a complex colonial frontier when precolonial social formations were considerably disrupted and there is an increasing 'fabric heavy' imprint of built structures, ash-heaps, and so on. The copper mines of Namaqualand and the diamond rush to the Kimberley area resulted in industrial archaeological landscapes in those areas which herald the modern era in South African history. Government Main article: Government of the Northern Cape The provincial government consists of a premier, an executive council of ten ministers, and a legislature. The provincial assembly and premier are elected for five-year terms, or until the next national election. Political parties are awarded assembly seats based on the percentage of votes each party receives in the province during the national elections. The assembly elects a premier, who then appoints the members of the executive council. The premier of the Northern Cape as of 2019 is Zamani Saul of the African National Congress. Political history The politics of the Northern Cape are dominated by the African National Congress (ANC), but their position has not been as strong as in the other provinces. Initially, no party had an absolute majority. In 1994 the ANC's Manne Dipico became the first Premier of the Northern Cape after Ethne Papenfus, the sole elected representative of the Democratic Party (DP), voted with the ANC. In return, she was elected speaker of the legislature. The ANC increased its voter share in later elections and has remained firmly in charge of the province after 1999. Dipuo Peters replaced Dipico as Premier in 2004. The official opposition in the Northern Cape after the 2004 elections was the Democratic Alliance , receiving 11% of the vote in the provincial ballot. The opposition's hopes of unseating the ANC has not had any success, even with the Congress of the People (COPE), a splinter party from the ANC, helping to split the vote in the election of 22 April 2009 . Hazel Jenkins became Premier following the election, and COPE became the official opposition. Jenkins was later replaced by Sylvia Lucas in 2013. The 2014 election saw the ANC returned to power once again with an increased mandate, while DA once again became the official opposition, after the collapse of COPE. The newly formed Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) also entered the legislature for the first time. Sylvia Lucas was re-elected to her first full term. In the 2019 election, the Northern Cape was considered competitive. The opposition DA planned on taking over the province. The ANC returned as the majority party but the party's support had dropped. The DA was once again the official opposition with an increased seat total. The EFF made gains, while the Freedom Front Plus (FF+) won a seat in the legislature for the first time since 2004. Geography See also: List of cities and towns in the Northern Cape A waterfall situated a few kilometres north of Nieuwoudtville on the road to Loeriesfontein , in the Northern Cape (Namaqualand region). The Northern Cape is South Africa's largest province, and distances between towns are enormous due to its sparse population. Its size is just shy of the size of the American state of Montana and slightly larger than that of Germany. The province is dominated by the Karoo Basin and consists mostly of sedimentary rocks and some dolerite intrusions. The south and south-east of the province is high-lying, 1,200–1,900 metres (3,900–6,200 ft), in the Roggeveld and Nuweveld districts. The west coast is dominated by the Namaqualand region, famous for its spring flowers. This area is hilly to mountainous and consists of granites and metamorphic rocks . The central areas are generally flat with interspersed salt pans. Kimberlite intrusions punctuate the Karoo rocks, giving the province its most precious natural resource, diamonds . The north is primarily Kalahari Desert, characterised by parallel red sand dunes and acacia tree dry savanna.[citation needed ] Northern Cape has a shoreline in the west on the South Atlantic Ocean. It borders the following areas of Namibia and Botswana: ǁKaras Region , Namibia – northwest Hardap Region, Namibia – far northwest Kgalagadi District, Botswana – north Domestically, it borders the following provinces: North West – northeast Free State – east Eastern Cape – southeast Western Cape – south and southwest Rivers The major river system is the Orange (or Gariep ) River Basin, draining the interior of South Africa westwards into the Atlantic Ocean. (The political philosopher Neville Alexander has used the idea of the 'Garieb' as a metaphor for nationhood in South Africa, a flowing together, in preference to the rainbow metaphor where the diverse colours remain distinct).[14] The principal tributary of the Orange is the Vaal River , which flows through part of the Northern Cape from the vicinity of Warrenton . The Vaal, in turn, has tributaries within the province: the Harts River and the Riet River , which has its own major tributary, the Modder River . Above the Orange-Vaal confluence, the Seekoei River drains part of the northeastern Karoo into the Orange River above the Vanderkloof Dam . Next downstream from the Orange-Vaal confluence is the Brak River , which flows nonperennially from the south and is in turn fed by the Ongers River , rising in the vicinities of Hanover and Richmond respectively. Along the Orange River near the town of Kakamas , the Hartebeest River drains the central Karoo . Above Kenhardt the Hartebeest is known as the Sak River , which has its source on the northern side of the escarpment, southeast of Williston . Further downstream from Kakamas, below the Augrabies Falls , and seldom actually flowing into the Orange River, is the Molopo River , which comes down from the Kalahari in the north. With its tributary, the Nossob River , it defines part of the international boundary between South Africa and Botswana . Further tributaries of the Molopo River include the Kuruman River , fed by the Moshaweng River and Kgokgole River , and the Matlhwaring River . Flowing west into the Atlantic, in Namaqualand , is the Buffels River and, further south, the Groen River . [citation needed ] Climate Windmills in Namaqualand, Northern Cape Mostly arid to semiarid, few areas in the province receive more than 400 mm (16 in) of rainfall per annum and the average annual rainfall over the province is 202 mm (8.0 in).[15] Rainfall generally increases from west to east from a minimum average of 20 mm (0.79 in) to a maximum of 540 mm (21 in) per year. The west experiences most rainfall in winter, while the east receives most of its moisture from late summer thunderstorms. Many areas experience extreme heat, with the hottest temperatures in South Africa measured along the Namibian border. Summers maximums are generally 30 °C (86 °F) or higher, sometimes higher than 40 °C (104 °F). Winters are usually frosty and clear, with southern areas sometimes becoming bitterly cold, such as Sutherland , which often receives snow and temperatures occasionally drop below the −10 °C (14 °F) mark. Kimberley averages: January maximum: 33 °C (91 °F) (min: 18 °C (64 °F)), June maximum: 18 °C (64 °F) (min: 3 °C (37 °F)), annual precipitation: 414 mm (16.3 in) Springbok averages: January maximum: 30 °C (86 °F) (min: 15 °C (59 °F)), July maximum: 17 °C (63 °F) (min: 7 °C (45 °F)), annual precipitation: 195 mm (7.7 in) Sutherland averages: January maximum: 27 °C (81 °F) (min: 9 °C (48 °F)), July maximum: 13 °C (55 °F) (min: −3 °C (27 °F)), annual precipitation: 237 mm (9.3 in) Municipalities Main article: List of municipalities in the Northern Cape Northern Cape districts and local municipalities Sign along R354 welcoming motorists into the Northern Cape from the Western Cape . The sign is in Afrikaans (top left), English (bottom left), Tswana (top right), and Xhosa (bottom right) The Northern Cape Province is divided into five district municipalities . The district municipalities are in turn divided into 27 local municipalities : District municipalities Frances Baard District Sol Plaatje Dikgatlong Magareng Phokwane John Taolo Gaetsewe District Moshaweng Ga-Segonyana Gamagara Namakwa District Richtersveld Nama Khoi Kamiesberg Hantam Karoo Hoogland Khâi-Ma Pixley ka Seme District Ubuntu Umsobomvu Emthanjeni Kareeberg Renosterberg Thembelihle Siyathemba Siyancuma ZF Mgcawu District (formerly Siyanda) Kai !Garib Dawid Kruiper !Kheis Tsantsabane Kgatelopele Cities and towns Main article: List of cities and towns in the Northern Cape Springbok viewed from the old cemetery Population 50,000+ Kimberley Upington Population 10,000+ Douglas Barkly West Colesberg De Aar Jan Kempdorp Kathu Kuruman Postmasburg Prieska Springbok Victoria West Warrenton Population < 10,000 Orania Carnarvon Garies Griekwastad Groblershoop Hartswater Keimoes Kakamas Pofadder Port Nolloth Strydenburg Sutherland Vanderkloof Economy See also: Economy of the Northern Cape As reported by the Northern Cape Provincial Government, unemployment still remains a big issue in the province. Unemployment was reported to be at 24.9% during Q4, 2013. Unemployment also declined from 119,000 in Q4, 2012 to 109,000 in Q4, 2013. The Northern Cape is also home to the Square Kilometer Array (SKA), which is located 75 km North-West of Carnarvon . The economy of the Northern Cape relies heavily on two sectors, mining and agriculture, which employ 57% (Tertiary Sector) of all employees in the province.[citation needed ] See also: Northern Cape wine Most famous for the diamond mines around Kimberley , it also has mining activities for Manganese and iron ore. The Northern Cape also has a substantial agricultural area around the Orange River , including most of South Africa's sultana vineyards. Some Wine of Origin areas have been demarcated. The Orange River also attracts visitors who enjoy rafting tours around Vioolsdrif . Extensive sheep raising is the basis of the economy in the southern Karoo areas of the province. BACK TO TOP

Mpumalanga "Eastern Transvaal" redirects here. For the rugby team formerly known as "Eastern Transvaal", see Falcons (rugby team) . For the team formerly called "South Eastern Transvaal" representing Mpumalanga, see Pumas (Currie Cup) . Pilgrim's Rest (Afrikaans : Pelgrimsrus) is a small museum town in the Mpumalanga province of South Africa which is protected as a provincial heritage site . It was the second of the Transvaal gold fields , attracting a rush of prospectors in 1873, soon after the MacMac diggings started some 5 kilometres (3.1 mi) away. Alluvial panning eventually gave way to deeper ore mining. In the 1970s the town, not greatly changed, became a tourist destination. Here are some things to do and see in Mpumalanga 1 2 3 : Lowveld Botanical Gardens, Nelspruit Chasing waterfalls in Sabie Elephant Museum, Kruger National Park Mbombela Stadium, Nelspruit Jock of the Bushveld Trail, Graskop Blyde River Canyon Nature Reserve Three Rondavels Viewpoint Bourke’s Luck Potholes Panoramic views of the Blyde Riber Canyon and God’s Window. Pilgrim's Rest (Afrikaans : Pelgrimsrus) is a small museum town in the Mpumalanga province of South Africa which is protected as a provincial heritage site . It was the second of the Transvaal gold fields , attracting a rush of prospectors in 1873, soon after the MacMac diggings started some 5 kilometres (3.1 mi) away. Alluvial panning eventually gave way to deeper ore mining. In the 1970s the town, not greatly changed, became a tourist destination. History The alluvial gold was discovered by prospector Alec Patterson. He panned Pilgrim's Creek, as it became known, when the nearby MacMac diggings became too crowded. He kept his find a secret, but a gold rush resulted when fellow prospector William Trafford registered his claim with the Gold Commissioner at MacMac. After it was officially declared a gold field in September 1873, the town suddenly grew to 1,500 inhabitants searching for alluvial gold. Mining companies In the 1880s the alluvial gold dwindled and prospectors were attracted to Barberton 's newly discovered gold deposits. Towards the end of the 19th century claims were bought up and underground mining started by the company known as TGME. The better-funded mining companies started mining the deeper gold-bearing ore. By 1895 several small mining companies amalgamated to form the Transvaal Gold Mining Estates (T.G.M.E.). This company was listed on the London Stock Exchange and became the first listed gold mining company in South Africa. As the volumes of gold ore increased, the engineers constructed small, local hydro-electric plants to generate electricity for the electric tramway and the ore crushers at the reduction works, built in 1897.[2] In 1911 the 2,000 kW Belvedere power station (at 24°39′18″S 30°50′12″E ) was completed on the Blyde River , some 30 km to the east. It supplied hydro-electric power to Pilgrim's Rest and adjacent communities up to 1992. Pilgrim's Rest was southern Africa's second town with street electricity, the first being Kimberley , also a mining town.[2] Boer war Pilgrim's Rest was the location of an emergency mint during the Second Boer War . This mint struck the famous and extremely rare Veld Pond . Graveyard At the graveyard, every grave was laid facing in the same direction, except for the traditional Robber’s Grave which is laid at right angles to the rest, not facing the rising sun, and emblazoned simply with a cross and the large type words of "Robbers Grave". One legend attributes it to a robber who was shot when he was caught stealing a tent from another miner, while other legends would have it that he instead stole a wheelbarrow , or that the thief died after being lynched. The most detailed account attributes the grave to a fortune hunter, one Walter Scott, who committed suicide . Scott would have shot his friend Roy Spencer, son of a well-to-do English banker, after they returned drunk from a party. Scott suspected Spencer of stealing his purse of gold. Scott pursued Spencer and shot him near the church, the site of the present graveyard, whereafter Spencer was secretly buried. The sobered-up Scott found his purse in his tent, and committed suicide when he realised what he had done. Scott was then buried in an unmarked grave next to that of his friend, Spencer. Recent times and tourism Mining was closed down in 1971 and the village was sold to the government as a national museum. Transvaal Gold Mining Estates Limited started mining again in 1998. It is currently owned by Theta Gold Mines Limited, an Australian listed company. On May 15, 2004, the old TGME reduction works was added to the UNESCO World Heritage tentative List in the Cultural category but was removed in 2016. The town's original architecture remains largely unchanged since the heyday of the mining era, because the town was declared a National Monument. It became a provincial heritage site in 1986. The village is a cultural heritage site and living museum with a variety of village museums, tours, accommodation, restaurants and shops. Mpumalanga Mpumalanga (/əmˌpuːməˈlɑːŋɡə/ ) is a province of South Africa . The name means "East", or literally "The Place Where the Sun Rises" in the Nguni languages . Mpumalanga lies in eastern South Africa, bordering Eswatini and Mozambique . It shares borders with the South African provinces of Limpopo to the north, Gauteng to the west, the Free State to the southwest, and KwaZulu-Natal to the south. The capital is Mbombela .[5] Mpumalanga ZuluiMpumalanga AfrikaansMpumalanga SepediMpumalanga SwazieMpumalanga SetswanaBotlhabatsatsi Southern NdebeleiPumalanga Mpumalanga was formed in 1994, when the area that was the Eastern Transvaal was merged with the former bantustans KaNgwane , KwaNdebele and parts of Lebowa and Gazankulu . Although the contemporary borders of the province were only formed at the end of apartheid , the region and its surroundings have a history that extends back thousands of years. Much of its history, and current significance is as a region of trade History Precolonial Era One of the Lydenburg Heads from around A.D. 500 found in Mpumalanga Archeological sites in the Mpumalanga region indicate settlement by humans and their ancestors dating back 1.7 million years. Rock paintings, engravings and other archeological evidence throughout the province indicate that Mpumalanga has a long history of human habitation by groups of hunter gatherers. Excavations not far from the Mpumalanga border in the Origstad district, show evidence of Middle Stone Age habitation dating back to 40,000 years ago. The Lion Cavern, in Ngwenya on the Eswatini border, shows evidence of people mining iron ore in the Mpumalanga region and surrounding areas from at least 28 000 years ago. Evidence from mine shafts and trade goods shows that there was notable industry in tin, copper, gold, iron, ochre, and bronze. The Lydenburg Heads , from around 500 CE, are Africa's oldest Iron Age artworks south of the equator and were found in Mpumalanga. Evidence from a site near Mbombela shows evidence of agricultural societies from between the 6th to 17th century. Bokoni stone-walled sites on the Mpumalanga highveld are indicative of a large precolonial agropastoral society between ~1500 and 1820 CE.. These societies became centers of trade, with increasingly large and centralised populations This pattern increased as they connected to the Portuguese trading post in Maputo Bay . In this era, groups that would become the Swazi , Pedi , Ndebele , Mapulana and others established themselves in the area that is now Mpumalanga. Climate The Lowveld is subtropical , due to its latitude and proximity to the warm Indian Ocean . The Highveld is comparatively much cooler and drier, due to its elevation of 1700 m to 2300 m above sea level. The Drakensberg escarpment receives the most precipitation , with all other areas being moderately well-watered by mostly-summer thunderstorms . The Highveld often experiences considerable freezing, while the Lowveld is mostly frost-free. Winter rainfall is rare, except for some drizzle on the escarpment . The differences in climate are demonstrated by comparing the capital, Mbombela , which is in the Lowveld, with Belfast , which is an hour away on the Highveld: Mbombela averages: January maximum: 29 °C (min: 19 °C), July maximum: 23 °C (min: 6 °C), annual precipitation: 767 mm Belfast averages: January maximum: 23 °C (min: 12 °C), June maximum: 15 °C (min: 1 °C), annual precipitation: 878 mm With climate change in the province, rainfall is becoming more variable, temperatures and evaporation rates are rising and extreme weather events are becoming more frequent. It is predicted that these changes will shift biomes so that most of the province will be savanna Education Colonial era In 1845, as part of the Great Trek , the first Dutch-speaking colonial settlers arrived in what they called the eastern Transvaal. The rest of the 19th century in the region was characterised by colonial encroachment and conflict over land and political control. In 1852, the Boers established the South African Republic . The well established Pedi, Swazi and Zulu kingdoms put up significant resistance against the settlers. The Pedi fought wars with the Boers in 1876 (see Sekhukhune Wars ) and the Zulu fought with British settlers in 1879 (see Anglo-Zulu War ). These interconnected conflicts played a role in shifting the balance of power in southern Africa to colonial control. After 1860, missionaries, especially German missionaries like Alexander Merensky set up mission stations in the region, spreading Christianity and European values. Just as the region had been a center for trade in the precolonial era, in the colonial era, the Eastern Transvaal region became an important thoroughfare for trade between Johannesburg and Delagoa Bay (now Maputo ). Gold mining around areas like Pilgrims Rest and Barberton and farming were the main forms of economic activity. On farms in the Transvaal, under a system known as Inboekstelsel , Boers carried out raids to capture children and forced them into indentured labour. During the South African War , the region was the site of notable battles. Apartheid When the National Party came to power in 1948, their policy of apartheid intensified the segregation that had defined communities in the Transvaal . Under a policy of forced removals, Black South Africans were evicted from areas reserved for white people and moved into homelands, including KaNgwane , KwaNdebele , Lebowa and Gazankulu . As the apartheid regime implemented oppressive policies that defined almost every aspect of life, activists responded with resistance. In 1959, the small town of Bethal on what is now the Mpumalanga highveld was the center of the anti-apartheid consumer potato boycott in response to the working conditions Black South African labourers faced on farms in the area. The region was influenced by dynamics in exile and elsewhere in the country, for instance Black Consciousness , the Sharpeville Massacre and the 1976 Soweto Uprisings . In the 1980s, under intense repression, youth and labour organizations moblized against the government and townships and Bantustans erupted in political unrest and violence. In 1986, an avoidable disaster killed 177 mine workers in Kinross Mine in the region's highveld. The response to the disaster by the National Union of Mineworkers was a key point in the South African labour struggle. By the late 1980s, the intensity of resistance across South Africa (including areas like Mpumalanga, which hadn't previously been seen as key areas of resistance) combined with economic factors and international pressure was strong enough to end apartheid. On 27 April 1994, when South Africa held its first democratic elections , Mpumalanga province was formed. It was originally called the "Eastern Transvaal" province, but the name was later changed to Mpumalanga on 24 August 1995. Geography A view from the mountains of the Barberton Geotrail, where evidence of earliest signs of life (3.2 billion-years-old) was found. The Drakensberg escarpment divides Mpumalanga into a westerly half consisting mainly of high-altitude grassland called the Highveld and an eastern half situated in low-altitude subtropical Lowveld /Bushveld , mostly savanna habitat. The southern half of the Kruger National Park is in the latter region. The Drakensberg exceeds heights of 2000 m in most places, with this central region of Mpumalanga being very mountainous. These regions have alpine grasslands and small pockets of Afromontane forest . The Lowveld is relatively flat with interspersed rocky outcrops. The Lebombo Mountains form a low range in the far east, on the border with Mozambique . Some of the oldest rocks on earth have been found in the Barberton area; these ancient greenstones and metamorphosed granites form the Crocodile River Mountains in the southeast of the province. The Lowveld is underlaid by African Cratonic Basement rocks of ages in excess of 2 billion years. The Highveld is mostly Karoo Sequence sedimentary rock of a younger, Carboniferous to Permian age. Mpumalanga is the only South African province to border two provinces of Mozambique (Gaza Province to the northeast and Maputo Province to the east), as well as all four regions of Eswatini (Lubombo , Hhohho , Manzini , and Shiselweni districts). Ecology Some of the earliest signs of life on Earth have been found in Mpumalanga. In the Makhonjwa mountain range's greenstone belt near Barberton , a fossil layer shows microbial activity that is 3.22 billion years old. This discovery indicates that life emerged on Earth 300 million years earlier than previously thought. Mpumalanga has a high plant and animal diversity. Many species are endemic to the province. Endemic species A partial list of species that are endemic to Mpumalanga Roust Golden Mole (Amblysomus robustus) , a mammal in the golden mole family. Treur River Barb (Enteromius treurensis) , a river fish. Barberton sugarbush (Protea curvata), a protea plant threatened by mining activity. Sim's Spotted Aloe (Aloe simii) an aloe threatened by road construction. Komati Waterberry (Syzygium komatiense) a species of waterberry tree. Thorncroftia lotterii , a flowering plant. Acontias albigularis , a lizard species. Procrica mariepskopa , a moth species. Inkomati Mountain Catfish (Amphilius engelbrechti) Yellow Baberton Grass Aloe (Aloe craibii) Longtom oneye (Monopsis kowynensis) Graskop cliff aloe (Aloe nubigena) Kruger National Park, South Africa's largest conservation area Conservation areas The diverse and special flora and fauna of the province enjoys protection in a range of nature reserves. Barberton Nature Reserve Blyde River Canyon Nature Reserve Great Limpopo Transfrontier Park , previously known as Gaza-Kruger-Gonarezhou Transfrontier Park. This international game park brings together some of the best and most established wildlife areas in southern Africa. The park is managed as an integrated unit across an unprecedented three international boundaries which includes the Kruger National Park (South Africa), Limpopo National Park (Mozambique ) and Gonarezhou National Park (Zimbabwe ). Lowveld National Botanical Garden in Mbombela Sabi Sand Game Reserve , which is built up of numerous private reserves: Nottens Bush Camp,[31] Idube Safari Lodge , Chitwa Chitwa Game Lodge, Djuma Game Reserve, Exeter Game Lodge, Inyati Private Game Reserve, Leopard Hills Private Game Reserve, Lion Sands Private Game Reserve, Londolozi Game Reserve, Mala Mala Game Reserve , Savanna Private Game Reserve and Ulusaba Game Lodge. Verloren Vallei near Dullstroom Many species of plants are unique to the different geological formations within Mpumalanga. Some examples of these formations include serpentines of Barberton Mountains, norites of Sekhukhuneland , quartzites of Blyde River Canyon , and the dolomites in the northern plateaus Law and government Law and government Mpumalanga is governed by the Mpumalanga Provincial Legislature , a unicameral system of 30 legislators democratically elected though a closed list system. Under the constitution of South Africa, the legislature is intended to create laws, promote public participation and provide oversight. From 1994 to the present, the African National Congress has been the leading party in the Mpumalanga legislature. As of the 2019 elections, the Economic Freedom Fighters , Democratic Alliance and Freedom Front Plus are in opposition in the legislature. Elected every five years, the premier of Mpumalanga is the head of government in the province. Since 2018, Refilwe Mtsweni-Tsipane has held the office of premier. Municipalities Main article: List of municipalities in Mpumalanga Mpumalanga districts and local municipalities Mpumalanga Province is divided into three district municipalities . The district municipalities are in turn divided into 18 local municipalities : District municipalities Ehlanzeni District Bushbruckridge Mbombela Nkomazi Thaba Chweu Umjindi Gert Sibande District Albert Luthuli Dipaleseng Govan Mbeki Lekwa Mkhondo Msukaligwa Pixley ka Seme Nkangala District Delmas Dr JS Moroka Emalahleni Highlands Steve Tshwete Thembisile Farming Farming Farm in Mpumalanga highveld 68% of land area in the province is used by agriculture. The climatic contrasts between the drier Highveld region, with its cold winters, and the hot, humid Lowveld allow for a variety of agricultural activities. Mpumalanga has been an important supplier of fruit and vegetables for local and international markets for decades. A history of dispossession mean that farming land is largely white owned, although policies of land redistribution era aim to address this. Crops include maize, wheat, sorghum , barley , sunflower seed , soybeans , macadamias , groundnuts, sugar cane, vegetables, coffee, tea, cotton, tobacco, citrus , subtropical and deciduous fruit. Natural grazing covers approximately 14% of Mpumalanga. The main products are beef, mutton , wool , poultry and dairy. Farming in the province is driven by both a combination of seasonal , permanent and temporary labourers. Conditions on farms vary widely but seasonal and temporary workers, many of whom are migrant workers from nearby Mozambique , face intense insecurity. Forestry is extensive around Sabie and Graskop . Located near the forests, Ngodwana is the site of one of South Africa's largest paper mills (Sappi ). Mining Extensive mining is done and the minerals found include gold, platinum group metals, silica , chromite , vanadiferous magnetite , argentiferous zinc , antimony , cobalt , copper, iron, manganese , tin , coal, andalusite , chrysotile asbestos , kieselguhr , limestone , magnesite , talc and shale . Gold was first discovered in Mpumalanga province in 1883 by Auguste Roberts in the mountains surrounding what is now Barberton. Gold is still mined in the Barberton area today. Mpumalanga accounts for 83% of South Africa's coal production. 90% of South Africa's coal consumption is used for electricity generation and the synthetic fuel industry. Coal power stations are in proximity to the coal deposits. A coal liquefaction plant in Secunda (Secunda CTL ) is one of the country's two petroleum-from-coal extraction plants, which is operated by the synthetic fuel company Sasol . The high density of coal power stations on the Mpumalanga highveld means that the region has the highest levels of nitrogen dioxide pollution in the world. Attractions Mpumalanga is popular with tourists. Kruger National Park , established in 1898 for the protection of Lowveld wildlife, covering 20,000 square kilometres (7,700 sq mi), is a popular destination. The other major tourist attractions include the Sudwala Caves and the Blyde River Canyon . Many activities including the big jump, mountain and quad biking, horse trails, river rafting and big game viewing are endemic to the region. This is "Big Five " territory. Towns in the Lowveld are Barberton , Mbombela , White River , Sabie , Graskop , Hazyview , Malelane , Pilgrim's Rest , Lydenburg and Nkomazi .[42] In 2008, a Haute Cuisine route was formed, trickling from Mbombela down to Hazyview. The Lowveld Gourmet Route covers the four top fine dining restaurants the area has to offer. The restaurants include Summerfields Kitchen, Oliver's Restaurant, Orange and Salt. 2007-2010 Culture Ndebele traditional dress Mpumalanga is home to a diverse range of cultures, including Swazi, Ndebele, Afrikaans, Tsonga, Zulu, Mapulana, Portuguese and Pedi communities. The Ndebele Cultural Village at Botshabelo is a renowned center of cultural heritage, with displays of Ndebele house painting . Ndebele artist Esther Mahalangu gained international acclaim for her artwork rooted in Ndebele traditions and geometric patterns. Prominent South African artist Gerard Sekoto was born in Botshabelo . Many celebrated South African musicians, such as Ray Phiri , Rebecca Malope and Pretty Yende , are from Mpumalanga. Since 2003, Mpumalanga's capital city, Mbombela, has hosted the Afrikaans national arts festival Innibos. The festival features music, comedy, arts, crafts and theatre. BACK TO TOP