Malalane Travel Guide

Explore the beauty of Malalane with our comprehensive travel guide covering places to visit, hiking routes, where to stay, and much more.


Introduction to Malalane

Located in the southern part of Mpumalanga, South Africa, Malalane is a small town full of cultural and natural attractions. Situated near the Kruger National Park, Malalane is the perfect base for exploring the many wonders of the region. The town is known for its warm weather, welcoming locals, and delicious cuisine.

In this comprehensive travel guide, we’ll cover the must-see places in Malalane, including the best hiking and biking routes, the food and drink scene, where to stay, and much more.

List of Places to Visit in Malalane

Whether you’re a history buff or nature lover, Malalane has something to offer.

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

To learn more about the rich history and culture of Malalane, visit these landmarks:

  • The War Museum, which features displays on various wars fought in South Africa.
  • The Malalane Cultural Tourism Centre, which showcases traditional Swazi culture and includes a restaurant serving local cuisine.
  • The Chimp Eden, a sanctuary for rescued chimpanzees.

Natural Attractions of Malalane: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Malalane is surrounded by stunning natural beauty, making it an ideal destination for lovers of the outdoors. Some of the top attractions include:

  • The Kruger National Park, which is just a short drive from Malalane and is home to the famous “Big Five” animals.
  • The Malelane Gate, where visitors can enter the Kruger National Park and enjoy a self-drive safari.
  • The Crocodile Bridge Gate, which provides access to the southern Kruger National Park and is known for its excellent birdwatching opportunities.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Malalane

Malalane is a hiker’s paradise, with numerous trails of varying difficulties. The following are some of the best hiking and biking routes in the area:

  • The Mthethomusha Game Reserve, which offers a range of hiking trails with breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.
  • The Nkomazi Wilderness, which features several hiking and mountain biking trails through stunning scenery.

Best Things to Do in Malalane: Activities and Tours

When it comes to activities in Malalane, here are some of the top recommendations:

  • Safari tours to the Kruger National Park, where you can see a diverse range of wildlife.
  • Visit the Swaziland border near the Jeppes Reef border post, where you can experience the unique culture and traditions of this tiny African nation.
  • Explore the beautiful Lowveld Botanical Garden, which is home to a wide variety of plant species.

Week-Long Itinerary for Malalane

If you’re planning a week-long trip to Malalane, here’s a sample itinerary to help you plan your visit:

Day 1: Visit the War Museum and the Malalane Cultural Tourism Centre.

Day 2: Explore the Kruger National Park and enjoy some safari tours.

Day 3: Take a hike or bike ride in the Mthethomusha Game Reserve.

Day 4: Visit the Crocodile Bridge Gate and enjoy birdwatching.

Day 5: Take a scenic drive to Swaziland and experience their unique culture and traditions.

Day 6: Go shopping for souvenirs or try some of the delicious local cuisine.

Day 7: Relax at your hotel or guesthouse and enjoy the beautiful scenery.

Food and Drink Scene of Malalane

Malalane is known for its delicious cuisine, which combines traditional African flavors with modern dishes. Some must-try dishes include:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Braai meat, which is a popular dish in South Africa and consists of grilled meat marinated in spices.
  • Biltong, which is cured beef that is often enjoyed as a snack.

Local Beverages

  • Amarula, a cream liqueur made from the fruit of the marula tree.
  • Rooibos tea, a popular South African tea made from the leaves of the rooibos plant.

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

There are many accommodation options available in Malalane, including hotels, hostels, and guesthouses:

  • Pestana Kruger Lodge, which is located near the Kruger National Park and offers comfortable rooms and stunning views of the surrounding area.
  • Buhala Lodge, a luxurious lodge with an outdoor pool and spa facilities.
  • Bahnhof Mpumalanga, a guesthouse located near the Malalane train station with comfortable rooms and a restaurant.

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

Some popular souvenirs and local products to bring back from Malalane include:

  • Biltong and other cured meats.
  • Handmade crafts and jewelry.
  • Local wines and liqueurs.

Local Culture and Customs of Malalane

The people of Malalane are known for their hospitality and welcoming nature. When visiting the town, it’s important to be respectful of local customs and traditions. Some key cultural customs to keep in mind include:

  • Greeting people with a handshake or nod of the head.
  • Dressing modestly when visiting cultural or religious sites.

Best Time to Visit Malalane

The best time to visit Malalane is during the dry season, which runs from June to August. During these months, the weather is cool and dry, making it easy to explore the town and surrounding areas.

Do’s and Don’ts of Malalane

Do:

  • Be respectful of local customs and traditions.
  • Try the local cuisine, which is delicious and unique.

Don’t:

  • Wear revealing clothing when visiting cultural or religious sites.
  • Ignore safety precautions when exploring the outdoors.

Safety and Health

Safety in Malalane

Malalane is generally considered a safe destination for travelers. However, it’s important to take precautions to protect your safety and belongings, such as:

  • Avoiding walking alone at night.
  • Keeping valuable items in a safe place.

Health in Malalane

When visiting Malalane, it’s important to take precautions to protect your health, such as:

  • Drinking bottled water to avoid water-borne illnesses.
  • Protecting yourself from mosquito bites to avoid malaria.

Getting to Malalane: Transportation Options and Logistics

Malalane is accessible by various means of transportation. Here are a few options to consider:

Airports Near Malalane

The nearest international airports are O.R. Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg and Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport in Nelspruit.

Bus Stations Near Malalane

The Greyhound Bus service operated by Citiliner, runs between Johannesburg and the Kruger National Park, with a stop in Malalane town center.

Other Options

There are several car rental companies in the area and Uber is also available in and around Malalane.

How to Get Around in Malalane

The main mode of transportation in Malalane is by car, either by renting a car or by taking a taxi. There are also bike rental companies available for exploring the town and surrounding areas on bike.

Where to Go Next from Malalane: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you want to explore more of South Africa, there are several nearby destinations and excursions to consider:

  • Sabie, a small town known for its scenic waterfalls and hiking trails.
  • Graskop, which is home to the famous God’s Window lookout point and the Big Swing.
  • Hazyview, which is located near the Kruger National Park and offers a range of outdoor activities and safari tours.

Conclusion

Malalane is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the natural beauty, rich history, and diverse culture of South Africa. With its stunning scenery, delicious cuisine, and welcoming locals, it’s no wonder that Malalane continues to be a top destination for travelers from around the world.

Crocodile River Crocodile River Glimpse of Kruger Park from Fish Eagle Glimpse of Kruger Park from Fish Eagle