Hoedspruit

The Lowveld town of Hoedspruit lies in the Valley of the Olifants. With its ever-present views over the Drakensberg escarpment, and situation neighbouring the Kruger National Park, Hoedspruit is surrounded by beautiful game-rich countryside. The town provides easy access to many of the surrounding private game reserves including Balule, Timbavati and Klaserie, as well as Kruger itself.

Hoedspruit means "hat stream". It is believed that the town acquired its name when, after a long trek over the mountains into the heat of the Lowveld, one of the pioneers removed his hat and threw it into the cool waters of the Sandspruit River. One can get a feel for the culture of the town by visiting the African art galley, information centre and museum; while the daily lives of a true Shangaan tribe can be experienced and enjoyed by the whole family at the Nyani Tribal Village.

Being in such close proximity to the Kruger National Park means that Hoedspruit is a centre that focuses on animals, and the Hoedspruit Research & Breeding Centre is one of the leading private research and breeding facilities for endangered species. Here the animals, especially cheetah, are both bred and rehabilitated.

Outdoor enthusiasts will revel in the rafting, abseiling and hiking opportunities, and the wonderful scenery provides the perfect routes for mountain bikers and 4x4 drivers. A wonderful way to get a bird's-eye view of the area is to go on one of the microlight flights that are on offer.