The views alone are worth the journey.
Sabie/Teddy Kubheka/Unsplash
Mpumalanga is one of South Africa’s most scenic provinces. From the Panorama Route to the Kruger National Park, it is a destination that rewards those who seek beauty in both landscape and experience. Whether you are chasing luxury lodges or budget-friendly hideaways, the province delivers unforgettable stays with views that linger long after the trip ends.
Luxury stays with a view
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1. Summerfields Rose Retreat and Spa, Hazyview
Set along the banks of the Sabie River, Summerfields Rose Retreat is surrounded by orchards, gardens, and the gentle sound of flowing water. Its tented suites are tucked among trees, offering privacy and open decks where guests can unwind with views of the river. The retreat’s on-site spa and award-winning restaurant add a touch of indulgence, making it one of the most romantic luxury stays in the Lowveld.
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2. Ulusaba Private Game Reserve, Sabi Sand
Owned by Sir Richard Branson, Ulusaba offers front-row views of the African bush. The lodge sits high on a koppie, overlooking miles of untamed wilderness where wildlife roams freely between Sabi Sand and the Kruger National Park. Whether you are watching elephants gather at a distant waterhole or sipping sundowners above the treetops, the view here captures the essence of Mpumalanga’s wild heart.
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3. Blyde River Canyon Lodge
Tucked near the entrance to the Blyde River Canyon Nature Reserve, this boutique stay offers sweeping views of one of the largest green canyons in the world. Guests can explore nearby attractions like the Three Rondavels and God’s Window, then return to a serene setting with panoramic terraces and tranquil gardens that blend seamlessly with the surrounding landscape.
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4. Highgrove House, between White River and Hazyview
This elegant country estate offers classic charm with wraparound verandas overlooking rolling hills and avocado orchards. The suites feature private plunge pools and open-air showers with sweeping countryside views. Highgrove is ideal for travellers seeking peace and refinement in a setting that feels both exclusive and timeless.
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5. Lion Sands Narina Lodge, Kruger National Park
Set on the banks of the Sabie River, this lodge’s elevated wooden decks and glass-fronted suites immerse guests in the rhythm of the wild. Early mornings bring mist rising off the river and the distant call of fish eagles, while evenings offer unforgettable sunsets that bathe the bushveld in gold. It is an intimate and luxurious way to experience the Kruger.
Budget stays with a view
1. Sabie River Camp, Sabie
This riverside campsite and glamping retreat is perfect for travellers who love the outdoors without giving up comfort. Overlooking the Sabie River, the site offers a mix of tents, chalets, and camping spots where guests can relax to the sound of rushing water. It is a great base for exploring the nearby waterfalls and scenic routes of the Panorama region.
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2. Gecko Lodge, Hazyview
Nestled between lush gardens and the Sabie River, Gecko Lodge provides warm hospitality and simple charm. The thatched rooms open onto a tranquil setting filled with birdlife and tropical plants. Its location near the Kruger Park and the Panorama Route makes it ideal for travellers seeking value without sacrificing scenery.
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3. Panorama Chalets and Rest Camp, Graskop
Perched on the edge of the Graskop Gorge, this long-loved stay is famous for its jaw-dropping views over the Lowveld. Guests can watch clouds drift through the valley from their chalets or the infinity pool that seems to hang over the gorge. It is one of the most scenic affordable options along the Panorama Route.
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4. Mdluli Safari Lodge, Kruger National Park
Located inside the park near Numbi Gate, Mdluli offers modern tented suites with views across the savannah. Though it feels luxurious, its rates remain accessible compared to many private lodges. The elevated decks provide front-row seats to passing wildlife, and the infinity pool overlooking the plains is a highlight at sunset.
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5. Misty Mountain, Long Tom Pass
Situated high above the escarpment, Misty Mountain offers breathtaking vistas over the Lowveld below. The property is known for its warm hospitality, cosy chalets, and the popular Toboggan run that winds down the slopes. For road-trippers driving the scenic Long Tom Pass, it is a memorable stop with views that stretch for miles.
From glass-fronted lodges in Big Five country to budget-friendly chalets perched above deep gorges, Mpumalanga’s stays are all about the view. Each place offers a window into the province’s diverse landscapes, where nature and hospitality come together to create unforgettable travel moments
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