Mpumalanga Lowveld Legogote Tourist Region
Lowveld Legogote is located in the central western part of the Mpumalanga province of South Africa and borders the southwestern edge of the Kruger Park. It is a beautiful lush area with subtropical vegetation. Enjoy a summer rain, with short heavy showers and thunderstorms most days. Winters are mild to hot during the day, but cold at night. The best time to visit this region is during the winter months, from April to September. Game or animal viewing is also at its best during this time.
Early European settlers avoided the area due to its low-lying position and humid climate. During the 19th century gold was discovered in the region and more people moved to the area. A trade route to Delagoa Bay on the coast of Mozambique, now known as Maputo, was also opened.
Legogote is derived from the Lugogo word meaning “the skin of an animal” and Legogote means “the place of skins”. Early travelers using oxcarts needed to regularly replace the leather straps on their carts, and the local tribes who lived in the caves of Legogote Mountain were experts at making these straps out of oxhide. This mountain is also famous for its “lion” silhouette and is seen just outside the popular town of White River.
At the center of the Lowveld Legogote region is Nelspruit, which is the capital of the Mpumalanga province. Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport is located just outside of Nelspruit and is the main destination for visitors flying into the greater Kruger Park area. The airport offers car rental and restaurants.
The city offers all the modern facilities, from shopping malls, family entertainment and banking to tourist services and facilities. Just outside Nelspruit you will find the oldest dolomite caves in the world: Sudwala Caves. The Lowveld Botanic Garden is a short drive from the town center and has a vast collection of cycads in native woodland.
Road conditions throughout the region are generally good. The more adventurous looking for places “off the beaten track” can enjoy many scenic drives. Maps can be purchased at most Nelspruit stationery stores and at tourist information offices in the region.
Copyright © 2008 Mark Thomas