85 Ehmke, conveniently situated two kilometres from Nelspruit’s central business district, is an owner-managed guest-house. Its centrality brings one within a stone’s throw from the Kruger National Park, the scenic Panorama Route, Mozambique and Swaziland. For those looking to unwind, the celebrated Matumi Golf Estate and the Emnotweni Casino provide the perfect playground – not to mention the smorgasbord of malls, the botanical gardens, a cinema and a bowling alley, all within close range.

There’s much more to Mbombela than just being a gateway to Big Five country, For instance, it boasts the superb Lowveld National Botanical Garden featuring over 500 indigenous plants , a man-made rain forest and a spectacular exhibition of ferns and cycads. If you’re made of strong stuff, take tissues and visit South Africa’s only chimpanzee rehabilitation centre on the fringes of the city. The Jane Goodall Institute’s Chimpanzee Eden opened its gates for these abused primates a few years back. Helicopter flips are a great way to see Mbombela’s attractions from the air. If you prefer your feet on the ground then venture to the Sudwala Caves, believed to be the oldest cavern system in the world. The Crystal Tour of the caves is a must, but if you’re at all claustrophobic, rather visit the open-air dinosaur park that recreates the world as it was when the caves were first formed. Mbombela has a small but dynamic nightlife with clubs and restaurants, but chances are you will want to get to bed early after a full day of exploring the natural riches of the area. But, if you do fancy a show and a drink, visit the Barnyard Theatre at the Casterbridge Centre on the city’s outsk