Established in 1905, Nelspruit, sometimes called Mbombela, is a small town with a big city feel, situated in the heart of the Lowveld. Surrounded by stunning green mountains and vast stretches of untouched bushveld, the town is not just a trading hub, what with it being situated on the trade route to Maputo, it is also a fantastic place to book a holiday.
Holidays to the Lowveld can be rustic experiences or they can be a more urban experience. The city and its surroundings cater to every type of traveller, and while most travellers have been to the city before if this is your very first adventure to the city, here are some of the more interesting things that you need to know.

- The City has Numerous Popular Local Haunts
From friendly pubs full of locals winding down after a busy day, to some of the best restaurants in the area and event outdoor adventures, Nelspruit has plenty of local places to explore and to enjoy. The best way to get a real feel for the town is to go to where the locals do. Some of the more popular places are out of town, and will require a bit of a drive, so be sure to properly plan ahead.
- The City is Close to Nature
Although the area has grown over the years and become a lot more urbanized, Nelspruiters still have a keen connection to nature. Many of the restaurants and attractions are built to incorporate nature, with some restaurants and pubs even bringing the outdoors in! Other ways that locals make the most of the surrounding nature is by spending some time at local dams or taking a walk through the city’s botanical garden. The city is also home to plenty of wetlands, where the natural environment is being conserved.
- The City has most National Franchises
Although Nelspruit is still very much a city with a small town feel, its fast growth means that it has most of the national franchises. No matter what you need when you are on holiday in the area, you will be able to find it in the town.
- The City is in a Malaria Area
When you are visiting the city, it is important to know that you are in a malaria area. From the start of Spring to the end of Autumn, there is always the threat of catching this awful illness, which is spread by mosquitoes. You should make sure that you take the right precautions to prevent infection.
- The City has Excellent Accommodation
With cozy warm bed and breakfast establishments to luxury accommodation and stylish hotels, when you are planning a trip to the city, you will find all sorts of accommodation options. Accommodation in Nelspruit generally offers everything you could need to make your stay as comfortable as possible, and most accommodation is quite budget friendly.
If there is one place you explore in 2023, make it Nelspruit.