Nkangala: Nature Reserves, Birdlife and Cultural Heritage

Nkangala offers a wide variety of natural landscapes: an internationally recognised wetland, reserves with river and dam scenery, and an eastern Kalahari thornveld landscape. There is also trout fishing and outdoor routes in Dullstroom, as well as places where nature and cultural heritage come together. When planning your trip, it is worth using these differences as a starting point and choosing your holiday apartment based on the destinations that interest you most.

Wetland, River Landscape and Thornveld

Verloren Vallei Nature Reserve is an internationally recognised wetland with high biodiversity. It is located in the Emakhazeni Local Municipality, about 15 kilometres north of Dullstroom in Mpumalanga. This helps place the reserve geographically, while its distinctive natural character lies in its wetland and biodiversity.

A different landscape defines Loskop Dam Nature Reserve: the 23,612-hectare protected area extends around Loskop Dam on the Olifants River. The natural floodplain has been restocked with animals native to the area, including eland, giraffes, zebras, wildebeest and white rhinos. The river, dam and floodplain give the reserve a different character from the wetland at Verloren Vallei.

The eastern Kalahari thornveld landscape takes centre stage at Mkhombo Nature Reserve. This 11,223-hectare protected area preserves it around the shores of a large dam. Those wishing to compare Nkangala’s landscapes will find distinct features here: a wetland, a floodplain and a thornveld environment beside the water.

Nature and Cultural Heritage at SS Skhosana Nature Reserve

SS Skhosana Nature Reserve is a protected area in the cultural heartland of the Ndebele people. Granite outcrops surround the reserve and shape its landscape; in sunlight, they take on a warm red hue. This combination of geological form and colour gives the place a distinctive landscape within Nkangala’s protected areas.

The reserve is home to hartebeest, wildebeest, zebras and kudus; its birdlife is also diverse. These animals are part of the protected area’s natural character, but individual sightings are not guaranteed. This is a helpful distinction when planning a day in nature: the landscape and wildlife define the place, while sightings depend on the particular visit.

Dullstroom: Trout Fishing and Active Routes

Dullstroom is a major destination for trout fishing and is part of the “Trout Triangle”. This makes the town particularly appealing if fishing is a focus of your trip. Dullstroom also has mountain biking and trail running routes. These activities offer another way to experience the area, alongside trout fishing.

The Bird of Prey Centre in Dullstroom also combines visitor experiences with conservation: it is a conservation and education centre and offers flying displays featuring birds of prey. As schedules should be checked for the latest information, find out about the displays before your visit. This lets you plan this activity without assuming fixed times.

A Historical Note and the Right Accommodation

The Nkangala Resistance and Liberation Heritage tourism Route is part of the area’s cultural and historical heritage. The Nkangala District launched it in April 2021. Its name highlights a different theme from the nature reserves and outdoor activities, adding to the range of experiences that can shape a trip through Nkangala.

When choosing a holiday apartment, it helps to first decide which experiences matter most to you: trout fishing and routes in Dullstroom, the landscapes of the protected areas, or the connection between nature and cultural heritage. Then compare the accommodation’s location with the places that are important to your trip. This way, your search is guided by your planned stay rather than by the name Nkangala alone.

Discover More Destinations

Discover more destinations: Groot Drakenstein, Kwamhlanga, Delmas, Leeuwfontein, Tweefontein, Weltevreden, Eastvaal District Council, Gert Sibande.

For the overview of the wider region: Mpumalanga.