Mpumalanga’s weather is naturally defined by it’s topography. Mpumalanga is a province of two halves, namely the high-lying grassland savannah of the highveld escarpment and the subtropical Lowveld plains. The western side of Mpumalanga, on the highveld escarpment, is like a rise of tropics, an ascent into an uncompromising range of temperatures. The west is drier, hotter and much colder than the rest of the Mpumalanga province. Middelburg, in the heart of the highveld, experiences summer rain, and has a summer (October to February) to winter (April to August) range of around 19º C with average temperatures in the contrasting seasons, of 26º C and 8º C. Nelspruit, the capital city of Mpumalanga, lies at the edge of the Lowveld near the Kruger National Park, and enjoys relatively plentiful summer rainfall (an average of around 620 mm falls between September and March) and mild to hot subtropical conditions in the Kruger National Park. If your trip covers the entire province, make sure you are prepared for the differences in temperatures from the Highveld to the Lowveld. Mosquitoes unfortunately also thrive in the climate of the lowlands. Please ask your pharmacist about the best anti-malaria prophylaxis. Visitors to the Mpumalanga Game Reserves should consult a local pharmacist or their family physician for advice on the best anti-malaria drug or drug combination they should take. or additional information see South Africa Malaria Risk Areas.
Public roads in South Africa are well developed and well sign-posted with driving done on the left hand side of the road. Drivers must have an international drivers license and a minimum of 5 years driving experience to hire a car in South Africa.
In addition to shopping centres, Nelspruit has a wide range of options. Always in demand, farm stalls throughout the Lowveld offer a range of fresh farm products. Flea markets are held regularly at the following venues: Prorom Square (Friday), Promenade Centre (Saturday) and Hall's Gateway (Saturday and Sunday). For more current info please see Mpumalanga Malls & Shopping in our Things to Do section.
Mpumalanga is a very colorful place and rich in its cultural festivals.
Dullstroom Arts Festival
Sundwala Mankele MTB Challenge
Sabie Experience
You will feel fabulous to be a part of these festivals.
