Barberton Travel Guide

Discover the culturally rich and adventurous town of Barberton with our comprehensive travel guide. Explore the natural wonders, try local cuisine, and learn about the town's history and culture.


Introduction to Barberton

Located in the eastern part of South Africa, in the province of Mpumalanga, Barberton is a town with a rich history and natural beauty. Founded in 1884, it’s one of the oldest gold-mining towns in the country. Its proximity to the Kruger National Park and other natural attractions makes it a popular tourist destination. In this guide, we’ll take you on a tour of Barberton’s top attractions and provide useful tips to help you plan your visit.

List of Places to Visit in Barberton

There are plenty of things to see and do in Barberton. Here is a list of our top recommendations:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Barberton Museum: This museum showcases Barberton’s gold-mining history and has exhibitions about the town’s flora and fauna. It’s a great way to learn about the town’s past and its significance in the region.

  • Jock of the Bushveld Trail: This trail follows in the footsteps of Sir Percy Fitzpatrick and his dog Jock, as they journeyed through the Lowveld in the late 1800s. The trail is rich in history and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

  • Fred and Harry’s Old Shop: A historical landmark, this old shop is an excellent spot to take some nostalgic pictures and learn about Barberton’s early days.

Natural Attractions of Barberton: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Kruger National Park: One of South Africa’s most renowned game reserves, the Kruger National Park is a must-visit when in the area. Home to the “Big Five” and many other species, it offers unforgettable wildlife sightings.

  • The Barberton Greenstone Belt: Known for its unique geology and rock formations, this area is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It’s great for hiking and exploring while learning about geology.

  • Bulembu Pass: A scenic drive that takes you up to 1800 meters above sea level where you can find beautiful views of the valleys and wildlife in the area.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Barberton

Barberton’s natural surroundings attract outdoor enthusiasts from all over the world. Here are some of the best hiking and biking routes in the area:

  • The Barberton Makhonjwa Geotrail: A 38km trail that explores the unique Geology of the Barberton Mountainland with stops at notable rock formations and historical landmarks.

  • The Bathurst Trail: A 17km trail for experienced hikers that goes through some of the most beautiful scenery in the area.

  • The Barberton Cycle Tour: A 65km road cycling challenge that takes you through beautiful scenery and past historical sites around Barberton.

Best Things to Do in Barberton: Activities and Tours

Barberton offers a wide range of activities and tours. Here are some must-try experiences:

  • Gold Panning: A fun-filled activity that takes you back in time to the early gold-mining days of Barberton.

  • Safari: Embark on a guided safari that takes you through the Kruger National Park and other nearby game reserves where you can see the Big Five and other exotic wildlife.

  • Canopy Tour: A thrilling zipline experience over the Sabie River Gorge, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.

Week-Long Itinerary for Barberton

Here’s a sample 7-day itinerary that will help you make the most of your time in Barberton:

Day Activity
1 Explore Barberton Museum and the town’s historical sites
2 Go on a safari at Kruger National Park
3 Hike the Barberton Makhonjwa Geotrail
4 Take a canopy tour or try gold panning
5 Drive up Bulembu Pass and enjoy scenic views
6 Visit the Barberton Nature Reserve
7 Relax and recover while enjoying the local food scene

Food and Drink Scene of Barberton

Barberton offers a unique blend of local and international cuisine. Here are some dishes and beverages that you must try:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Bunny Chow: A hollowed-out loaf of bread filled with a savoury and spicy curry sauce.

  • Biltong: A type of dried meat that’s popular in South Africa.

  • Chakalaka: A spicy relish made from tomatoes, onions, and peppers that’s often served with bread or meat dishes.

Local Beverages

  • Rooibos Tea: A herbal tea that’s native to South Africa, Rooibos tea is known for its numerous health benefits and its delicious flavour.

  • Amarula: A creamy liqueur made from the fruit of the Marula tree that’s native to the region. It’s a popular after-dinner drink.

  • Castle Lager: Known as the national beer of South Africa, Castle Lager is a refreshing and crisp beer that’s perfect for a hot day.

Where to Stay in Barberton: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Whether you’re on a budget or looking for a luxurious stay, Barberton has various options to suit your needs. Here are some of our recommendations:

  • Barberton Manor Guest House: A colonial-style guest house with beautiful gardens and heritage-themed rooms.

  • Buhle Nhlangano Guest House: A budget-friendly option that offers clean and comfortable rooms.

  • Royal Sheba Hotel: A luxurious hotel that offers stunning views and a serene atmosphere.

What to Buy in Barberton: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Here are some souvenirs and local products that you should consider buying as a reminder of your visit:

  • Biltong and Droewors: Dried meat that’s perfect for snacking or as a gift.

  • Kruger Rand Coins: Gold coins that are minted in South Africa and are a great investment.

  • African Crafts: Traditional crafts and art made by local artisans are available in most souvenir shops.

Local Culture and Customs of Barberton

Barberton is known for its friendly and welcoming people. The locals are proud of their heritage and will happily share stories and information about their town with visitors. It is common to greet strangers and ask how they are doing. Men usually wear shorts and sandals while women wear skirts and dresses. Barberton is a diverse town with many different cultural groups living together in harmony.

Best Time to Visit Barberton

The best time to visit Barberton is during the dry season, which runs from May to September. The temperatures are mild, and the skies are dry, making it ideal for outdoor activities such as hiking and game drives. The wet season, from November to April, is hot and humid, and there can be frequent rainstorms.

Do’s and Don’ts of Barberton

Here are some tips to make the most of your stay:

Do:

  • Take the time to learn about Barberton’s history and culture.

  • Respect the environment and wildlife when in the Kruger National Park.

  • Try the local cuisine and drinks.

Don’t:

  • Travel on your own at night in unfamiliar areas.

  • Leave valuables unattended in your car or hotel room.

Safety and Health

Safety in Barberton

Barberton is a relatively safe town, but it’s essential to take basic precautions. Avoid walking alone at night, and keep your valuables close. When driving, be aware of potholes on the road, and take care when pedestrians and livestock are present.

Health in Barberton

Barberton is a low-risk malaria area. However, it’s always best to consult a doctor before travelling and to take necessary precautions such as wearing long-sleeve shirts and pants, using mosquito repellent, and taking anti-malaria medication. Drinking water from the tap is not recommended. Always drink bottled water, and avoid ice in drinks.

Getting to Barberton: Transportation Options and Logistics

Getting to Barberton is relatively easy, with various transportation options available.

Airports Near Barberton

The closest airport is Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport, 80km away. It offers daily flights to and from Johannesburg and Cape Town.

Bus Stations Near Barberton

There are no direct bus services to Barberton. However, you can catch a bus from Johannesburg or Pretoria to Nelspruit, 40km away, and then take a taxi or local bus to Barberton.

Other Options

You can also rent a car and self-drive to Barberton. This option is popular among travellers who want to explore the surrounding areas at their pace.

How to Get Around in Barberton

Getting around Barberton is easy, with various transportation options available. Taxis and minibus taxis are widely available and are the preferred mode of transport for locals. Renting a car is ideal for exploring the surrounding areas at your own pace.

Where to Go Next from Barberton: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Barberton is an ideal base for exploring the surrounding areas. Here are some nearby destinations and excursions that you can consider:

  • Nelspruit: The capital city of Mpumalanga, Nelspruit is just a 40-minute drive from Barberton. It offers various cultural and natural attractions.

  • Swaziland: A small, landlocked kingdom, Swaziland is just a short drive away from Barberton. You can enjoy its traditional culture, vibrant markets and stunning mountain ranges.

  • The Panorama Route: A scenic drive that takes you through the breathtaking scenery of the Blyde River Canyon and God’s Window.

Conclusion

Barberton is a hidden gem in South Africa, where you can immerse yourself in its rich history, explore the natural wonders and soak up the local culture. We hope this guide will help you plan your ultimate Barberton adventure, creating a lifetime of memories.

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