Spring in Nelspruit means it’s jacaranda season!
If you’re a social media enthusiast, photographer, or just someone who loves nature, Nelspruit’s jacaranda trees are a visual treat that you don’t want to miss, and they are blooming right now!
The city’s streets, parks, and viewpoints transform into a sea of purple at this time of year, giving you the perfect opportunities for taking some jaw-dropping Instagram shots.
These are the top 5 Instagram-worthy spots to capture Nelspruit’s jacarandas. And be sure to visit them soon as the season ends as quickly as it arrives.
Ehmke Street
If you’re hunting for that perfect Instagram shot, head straight to Ehmke Street, one of Nelspruit’s most iconic jacaranda-lined streets.
During the bloom, the road is transformed into a dazzling purple tunnel, creating the kind of dreamy backdrop that looks straight out of a movie.
The endless rows of blooming jacaranda trees give a sense of depth and scale, making this a picture-perfect setting for wide-angle shots or street-style photography. Whether you’re capturing the whole avenue or zooming in on the delicate blossoms, the purple hues will make your feed pop!
Visit during the early morning or late afternoon on the weekends for the softest, most flattering light. Plus, you’ll beat the traffic and have the street mostly to yourself!
Murray Street
Though it’s not as well-known as some of Nelspruit’s other jacaranda streets, Murray Street is the perfect destination for Instagrammers looking to capture the beauty of jacarandas without the hustle and bustle of busy roads. On the weekends this quiet street is a most peaceful setting, with blooming jacarandas creating a serene, purple-draped canopy over the road.
Murray Street is best visited in the late morning or early afternoon on the weekends when the sunlight filters through the blossoms, creating a stunning contrast between the vibrant purple blooms and the deep blue sky.
Steiltes Nature Reserve
For those seeking a quieter, more off-the-beaten-path experience, Steiltes Nature Reserve is your go-to spot. This nature reserve has a few walking trails that meander through patches of jacaranda trees and beautiful natural landscapes. The downside is that it is not as jacaranda filled as other places in town.
To make the most of your expedition, take a picnic and make a day of it. You can capture those lovely “lifestyle” moments, picnicking under the trees with jacarandas in full bloom. Your feed will scream #relaxedvibes!
Paul Kruger Street
A stroll down Paul Kruger Street will introduce you to another iconic jacaranda-lined route that blends urban energy with natural beauty. This street is less crowded than some of the busier roads, making it ideal for photographers looking to capture a balance of city life and purple blooms.
Paul Kruger Street will give you an urban backdrop mixed with that natural setting.
The juxtaposition of city buildings and blooming trees creates an eye-catching scene for more “city-chic” Instagram posts. Play with perspectives, perhaps framing your shot with architecture in the background while focusing on the jacarandas above.
When taking your photos, try shooting from a low angle to capture the stunning tree canopy with a glimpse of city life in the background. The contrast will make your shot stand out on anyone’s feed!
Nelspruit’s Scenic Lodges
Want to wake up to a purple view? Many of Nelspruit’s lodges are tucked into beautiful, natural settings, often surrounded by jacaranda trees. Booking a stay at one of these lodges not only gives you a peaceful escape but also front-row seats to the jacaranda show, right from your balcony.
When choosing your place to stay, look for lodges with garden views or large windows for the best Instagrammable moments.
Jacaranda season in Nelspruit is a photographer’s paradise.
So, grab your camera, your favourite spring outfit, and start exploring! Your Instagram feed is about to get a serious upgrade. (And be sure to use these hashtags #NelspruitInBloom #JacarandaSeason #InstagramGoals)