HOEDSPRUIT

Bordering on the Kruger National Park, Hoedspruit lies in the heart of the central Lowveld and is conveniently situated to explore the many game lodges, game reserves and other attractions in the vicinity. Here towering cliffs meet endless expanses of bushveld, where vast plains of marula, acacia, combretum and mopane woodlands accommodate a wealth of wildlife and stretch as far as the eye can see. It is said that Hoedspruit (‘hat creek’) acquired its name when, after a long and tedious trek over the mountains and into the heat of the Lowveld, one of the pioneers removed his hat and threw it into the cool waters of the Sandspruit River, declaring his decision to settle there. Visitors to the Hoedspruit area can choose to stay in exclusive private game reserves or in various other game lodges, chalets, holiday resorts, bed-and-breakfasts or secluded camping sites. Many of the reserves bordering on the Kruger National Park have had their fences removed and now form part of the Greater Kruger National Park, resulting in huge traversing areas of unspoilt wilderness. The area offers outstanding wildlife experiences and excellent game-viewing in the tranquillity and natural beauty of the inimitable African bush. The town’s Eastgate Airport has been earmarked for upgrading to an international airport and will make this fascinating area even more accessible to domestic and international visitors.