Wakkerstroom

Wakkerstroom (an Afrikaans rendition of the Zulu name meaning Lively Stream) is the second oldest town in Mpumalanga province, South Africa. Its wetlands are known as a superb site for birds.

On account of Wakkerstroom’s concentration of high priority wetlands and the nearby sources of three rivers – the Vaal, Tugela (via Buffalo tributary) and Pongola – the region has been declared a National Freshwater Ecosystem Priority Area.

The best way to explore the area is by walking and driving along the network of dust roads radiating out from the Wakkerstroom wetlands. Of particular note are the area’s grasslands, with their rocky outcrops and gorges in search of orchids, aloes and other botanical treasures.

View suggested itinerary