Damwal

Damwal becomes a tangible destination for running enthusiasts through specific start locations for the Loskop Marathon Series. Race information from 2024 and 2026 names the Damwal Complex (Loskopdam) as the start of the 21-km Wild Challenge; the start time is strictly set at 06:30. The distance and early start are important points to consider when planning your trip. If you are considering staying in Damwal for this event, check the relevant event date and participation information in advance.

Another event is the Rhino Fun Run, a family run. It took place on 26 April 2025 and 25 April 2026, starting from Damwal Slaghuis on both occasions. These dates are in the past; if you plan to visit in the future, check for an up-to-date event date. The two runs offer different planning considerations: for the Wild Challenge, the 21-kilometre distance and strictly set start time are relevant, while for the Rhino Fun Run, the stated dates and start at Damwal Slaghuis are key.

Mpumalanga: Geology, Nature and History

In the wider destination of Mpumalanga, the range of themes extends from ancient geological history to nature and cultural experiences. The Barberton Makhonjwa Mountains are a World Heritage Site and include 40 percent of the Barberton Greenstone Belt. Their volcanic and sedimentary rocks are 3.6 to 3.25 billion years old. In Barberton, the Geotrail leads to clues about the earliest life forms visible to the naked eye, preserved in rocks. The Heritage Walk is one of the town’s main attractions. This places a geological look into the past alongside a town walk as different ways to explore Barberton’s history.

The natural landscapes also offer a variety of highlights. Kruger National Park covers almost two million hectares and offers a wildlife experience. The Verloren Vallei Nature Reserve brings together high biological diversity, rare and unusual plant species, and a rich birdlife; the protected area is an internationally recognised wetland. Around Barberton, more than 350 bird species can be observed along birdwatching routes, hiking trails, and in nature reserves. Loskop Dam Nature Reserve covers 23,612 hectares and surrounds Loskop Dam on the Olifants River, 55 kilometres north of Middelburg in Mpumalanga.

Among the region’s striking landscape destinations is Blyde River Canyon, the third-largest canyon in the world and the largest “green canyon”. Blyde River Canyon Reserve includes Bourke’s Luck Potholes, the Three Rondavels, Pinnacle Rock, and God’s Window. The 220-kilometre Genesis Route offers another way to explore the region: it passes through Mpumalanga’s Makhonjwa Mountain Range and is a scenic alternative to the N4 between Gauteng and the Kruger Lowveld.

Cultural history offers its own themes. Pilgrim’s Rest is a historic mining town on the Panorama Route. During the Second Boer War, an emergency mint operated there, producing the famous, rare Veld Pond using hand-crafted dies. The Sudwala Caves connect natural and cultural history: they are considered the site of some of the earliest evidence of human habitation anywhere in the world. Visitors can choose between two cave tours, including the four-hour Crystal Tour; check current tour times when making specific plans.

Discover more destinations: Ga-Mongatane, Tonteldoos, Tsimanyane, Ngwaritsi.

Go to the main travel overview: Southern.