6 Charming Stops Along the Road from Johannesburg to Kruger National Park

Planning a road trip is always exciting. Exploring new places, experiencing different cultures, and creating lasting memories along the way is an adventure like no other. If you’re thinking about venturing from Johannesburg to Kruger National Park, you’re in for a treat. The journey is dotted with fascinating destinations that are worth a stop. Let me introduce you to six perky pitstops that will add an extra spark to your road trip:

The Cradle of Humankind

Your journey begins with a visit to the Cradle of Humankind. This UNESCO World Heritage Site takes you back millions of years, inviting you to learn about our ancestors and the evolution of humankind. Explore the Sterkfontein Caves, where the famous fossil “Mrs. Ples” was discovered, and delve into the mysteries of our past.

Hazyview

Next on your list is Hazyview, a picturesque town nestled on the banks of the Sabie River. Get ready for an adventure in nature as you explore nearby attractions like the spectacular Mac Mac Falls and the breathtaking Kruger National Park. With its stunning landscapes and abundant wildlife, Hazyview will captivate you.

Pilgrim’s Rest

Step back in time as you visit the charming town of Pilgrim’s Rest. This living museum takes you back to the gold rush era in the late 1800s. Marvel at the well-preserved Victorian architecture and immerse yourself in the stories of the prospectors who once flocked to this area in search of gold.

God’s Window

Nature lovers, rejoice! God’s Window offers breathtaking panoramic views that will leave you in awe. Marvel at the magnificent vistas stretching as far as the eye can see, taking in lush green valleys, majestic mountains, and cascading waterfalls. It’s a sight that will make you appreciate the beauty of our planet.

Bourke’s Luck Potholes

Prepare to be amazed by the intriguing rock formations of Bourke’s Luck Potholes. These natural wonders were shaped by centuries of swirling water, creating distinctive cylindrical potholes. Walk along the bridges and take in the awe-inspiring sight of the Treur and Blyde Rivers coming together.

Sabi Sands Game Reserve

Your road trip wouldn’t be complete without a visit to the Sabi Sands Game Reserve. This private reserve offers thrilling safari experiences where you can spot the Big Five and other iconic African wildlife. Get up close and personal with nature and create lasting memories in this pristine wilderness.

Exploring South Africa’s scenic beauty and rich history along the road from Johannesburg to Kruger National Park is an experience that will stay with you forever. So pack your bags, hit the road, and embark on a journey filled with wonder and adventure.

When I travel from Johannesburg to Mpumalanga, I am treated to a stunning view. The road takes me from the Highveld to the Lowveld, following the majestic Drakensberg escarpment in the north.

What makes this journey even better are the padstals scattered along the way. These little roadside stalls not only offer a chance to stretch my legs, but also provide delicious food to satisfy my hunger.

Words & Photos by Mia Louw

Driving along the N4, watching as the green pastures cover the rolling hills of the Highveld, and seeing the city of Jozi fade away in the distance through my rearview mirror – on the four-hour drive between the bustling city and the serene citrus trees of the Lowveld, there are signs that indicate certain stops along the way.

1. Millys Trout Stall

Before reaching eNtokozweni, I always remind myself to keep my wallet handy for the Machado toll gate. It’s right before the R36 veers off from the N4 and dips down into Schoemanskloof. While passing through, I highly recommend making a pit stop at Millys. Not only can you stretch your legs, but you can also grab a delicious trout pie for lunch.

Millys has been a fixture next to the N4 since 1974, when the Cilliers family set up a small wooden stall where the current garage stands. Bright and early, Wimcar and his wife, Milly, would prepare fresh fish and put it on ice for the travelers heading to Kruger National Park.

If you continue on the road for another 40km, you’ll come across Patatanek and the Old Joe painted stone. This is where the R539 dramatically descends into the valley. Patatanek, which means sweet potato ridge, got its name from the transport riders of old. They would stop their ox-wagons here to give their animals a rest and cook up some sweet potatoes as a snack for the journey.

Now let me tell you about the next stop on our journey – Joubert & Seuns Padstal. It’s a special place located right by the Crocodile River, and you’ll spot it by the lovely citrus trees that line the valley. When I was there, I couldn’t resist trying out their freshly squeezed orange juice. They make a whopping 10,000 liters of it every month! If you’re feeling parched, this is the perfect spot to satisfy your thirst.

When you visit Joubert & Seuns Padstal, I recommend pulling over and taking a moment to explore the farm stalls. They stretch all the way from the beautiful Lowveld to the famous Panorama Route. It’s a great way to get a taste of the local produce and experience the vibrant atmosphere of the area.

So, don’t forget to make a pit stop at Joubert & Seuns Padstal during your journey. Grab yourself a refreshing glass of orange juice and soak in the charm of the farm stalls that dot the landscape. It’s an experience you won’t want to miss!

2. Joubert & Seuns Padstal

“When I enter the kloof, it sometimes feels a bit suffocating, especially for someone like me who’s used to wide-open spaces like the Kalahari,” Mariette Joubert explains, “but as soon as I reach Patatanek and the mountains come into view, I feel like I’ve found my true home.”

Mariette’s father-in-law purchased this property way back in 1966. At that time, “the road was still narrow and the untouched landscape stretched as far as the eye could see.” Even now, the Joubert family still encounters various animals on the farm, including leopards, caracals, genets, banded mongooses, aardwolves, jackals, and samango monkeys in the mountains.

Initially, they only planted fruits to keep the four padstals stocked. Mariette’s mother-in-law took charge of managing them since the 1970s. “She would make fruit roll-ups while we, the children, had the important task of shooing flies away. While everyone else sat down for Christmas lunch, our family would be out there, harvesting watermelons.”

Hey there! Did you know that Joubert & Seuns is a famous company that grows citrus for people all around the world? They also specialize in making big machines that move dirt around and they even make beautiful, custom wooden tables. But don’t worry, if you don’t want to drive around with a table on your car, you can still get some yummy snacks from them like fresh fruit, dried fruit, juice, nuts, biltong, or their very own orange peri-peri sauce.

According to Brumilde, Mariette’s daughter, people in Johannesburg get really upset when they find out that Joubert & Seuns doesn’t have a store in the city. She says, “Too bad for them! They’ll just have to take a road trip down to the Lowveld.”

If you want more information, you can call 083 625 7243.

Up in the mountains, about 7 kilometers away from the Viva garage, you’ll find a unique place called the Tudor mansion. It was built by a quirky Irishman named Paddy Davies-Webb who wanted to mix the fancy style of an English country house with the natural beauty of the Lowveld bush.

If you want to stay at the Tudor mansion, it costs R1,500 per person per night and that includes breakfast.

3. Orchid Farm Stall

So there’s this little shop that shows up on the side of the road, about 18km before Mbombela. It’s called the Orchid Farm Stall because, you guessed it, they specialize in orchids. But let me tell you, it’s not just orchids that they have to offer.

You can grab a cappuccino and have some lunch in their outdoor coffee shop. And if you’re in need of some birthday gifts, you’re in luck! They have a whole store filled with beautiful artwork from local artists, as well as decor, clothing, jewelry, handmade cosmetics, and ceramic pots, bowls, and tiles.

The Orchid Farm Stall has actually been around for quite some time now, about 10 years to be exact. But before that, it started off as a small fruit stall with just a few plants. According to Robby Stevenson, his family has been here since way back in 1867. They originally bought the farm as a winter retreat, or trekplaas as we call it.

The family used to live in Chrissiesmeer and would frequently relocate between the Highveld and Lowveld. This was a common practice among farmers who wanted to avoid the chilly winters of the Highveld and the scorching summers of the Lowveld, as well as the problem of malaria.

Nowadays, the family is engaged in various farming activities, including macadamias, honey, and the cultivation of plants like orchids, cycads, succulents, bromeliads, and tree ferns. Robby mentions that most of the orchids they cultivate come from his mom’s nursery, which is right across the road.

About a decade ago, before Urna and Robby took over, there used to be a saleslady who would nap while waiting for customers. She would wake up every few hours to assist travelers making their way to the Kruger. Nowadays, things are much busier. The family has built a function area in the garden and is currently constructing a day spa where travelers can indulge in relaxing massages.

‘On Fridays, us Joburgers are always rushing to reach our destinations and crack open a cold beer,’ Urna explains. However, on Sundays, something special happens. On our way back to the city, we all hit the brakes and take a moment to savor the weekend just a little bit longer.

If you want more information, you can reach us at 082 452 2348.

At the farm stall, you can participate in pottery and watercolor classes. It’s a fantastic opportunity to explore your creativity!

LoerieRoep, located 11km from Orchid Farm Stall, offers five cozy self-catering units. But the star attraction has to be the adorable treehouse with walls made entirely of windows. It’s definitely worth checking out!

For the treehouse experience, it costs R650 per person sharing.

4. Route 40 Farmstall & Coffee Cafe

Hey there! I’m standing on the R40 outside White River with Istell and Paul Carlin, who are all set to whip up something delicious for the folks heading to the Kruger National Park. Can you believe it? The Numbi gate is just a short 32km ride away.

Now, let me tell you, Istell is no ordinary cook. She’s the head honcho of the La Confrérie de la Chaîne des Rôtisseurs (fancy French gastronomy association) in the Lowveld region. So, rest assured, you’re in for a treat when she gets behind that stove. She and Paul have been running this awesome farm stall and café for three amazing years.

When they first started, they were all about serving up sit-down meals. But you know what? They quickly realized that folks prefer grabbing something tasty on the go. You know, like a mouthwatering pulled pork pie or some scrumptious baked goodies.

Here’s the thing: Istell is a pro at baking pastries, scones, cakes, and brownies. And besides all that, she’s a whiz at making peri-peri sauces, pestos, jams, and preserves. Oh, and let me not forget to mention that they also sell a bunch of other locally made goodies like honey, macadamia products, dried fruit, free-range chicken, and eggs.

Welcome to Istell, the café where I don’t have a set menu. I like to mix things up and offer two to three different dishes each day. One of my favorites is an open croissant with scrambled eggs and bacon, served with a delicious tomato and basil pesto relish. Another popular choice is eggs Benedict with crispy bacon and homemade hollandaise sauce.

Life hasn’t been easy for Istell café. Just when I thought I had weathered the storm of the Covid pandemic, a fire broke out in the neighboring shop and completely destroyed my padstal in 2020. It was a devastating blow, but I didn’t give up. I managed to salvage an antique cupboard and a roll-up desk from the wreckage, and I lovingly restored them to their former glory.

You see, I have quite a history. Many years ago, the Carlins used to run a guesthouse in Mbombela. Life took them to different parts of the world, including Brazil and the Western Cape, but eventually, they found their way back to the bushveld. Before returning, they spent some time living in Gordon’s Bay and even managed two eateries in Riebeek Kasteel.

‘We’re a bunch of bushveld enthusiasts,’ I admit. ‘Sure, there are lodges with the big five game towards the Karoo, but it just doesn’t compare. There’s something distinctly different about the early morning game drives and the scent of dust here.’

For more information, give us a call at: 083 260 8955.

Let me tell you about Eloff Guesthouse and Gallery. It’s a hidden treasure. Artist Zakkie Eloff was widely recognized for his magnificent wildlife paintings. Meanwhile, his wife René has her focus fixed on capturing the beauty of flowers and birds with her vibrant brush strokes. And not to mention their talented son, Phillip, who crafts exceptional custom-made wooden furniture.

You won’t believe it, but it’s only R600 per person per night when sharing.

5. Pure Plaas Padstal & Aloe Nursery

Hey there! Want to embark on a scenic adventure with me along the 140km stretch between White River and Pure Plaas? Brace yourself for numerous opportunities to relax and enjoy. If you’re not driving, we can take a break at Sabie Brewing Co for a refreshing beer or explore the beautiful waterfalls and swimming spots peppering the area from Sabie to Graskop. Trust me, you won’t be disappointed!

After our visit to Pilgrim’s Rest, an old mining town that’s like a living piece of history, we’ll make our way up Robber’s Pass. This name is steeped in intrigue, as it refers to two daring coach robberies that took place in 1899 and 1912. Just a short 24km further, we’ll come across Pure Plaas Padstal on the left side of the R36.

Now, let me tell you something interesting about this place. Behind the stall lies a treasure trove that will captivate the heart of any city-dweller. Amanda and Dennis Brits have an incredible garden filled with over 3,000 aloes, 15 of which are exclusive to the Ohrigstad region. When you visit, you can also purchase their delicious jams, preserves, vintage tins, and grass baskets. Oh, and don’t forget to try their mouthwatering vetkoek and pancakes on weekends! It’s a delightful experience you wouldn’t want to miss.

Living by the roadside means you get to meet all sorts of interesting and sometimes famous people. But it’s the regulars who have made the past 40 years truly special. People stop by and ask us about Charlie, our beloved Jack Russell who was the mascot of our little store until he passed away last winter.

“It’s priceless to hear truckers honk their horns as they speed by,” Amanda says with a smile. “Families stop to catch up with us and share updates about their lives. They show us wedding photos and pictures of how their kids have grown. This place is where customers become friends.”

Just to be safe, bring some cash because sometimes the card machine loses signal here in the Ohrigstad River Valley. But don’t worry, Amanda and Dennis trust their customers enough to let them do an EFT payment just 13km down the road.

If you want more information, give us a call at 073 261 4793.

In 2020, we renovated Mona Cottage in Pilgrim’s Rest. This historical house, which was built in 1907, has been transformed into a luxurious cottage with two bathrooms.

The rate is R1,800 per night for six people.

6. The Cheeky Piglet

There is a delightful creature known as the piglet. It is a smaller and more playful version of the well-known pig. As I observe these little creatures, I can’t help but ponder on the importance of their existence and the joy they bring to the world.

Are you familiar with piglets? If you are, then you’ll understand the charm they possess. With their tiny snouts and cute curly tails, piglets have a way of captivating our hearts.

But it’s not just their appearance that makes piglets special. They also have a mischievous nature that sets them apart. Piglets are known for their playful antics and their tendency to explore their surroundings with great curiosity.

Imagine stumbling upon a piglet as it scurries around, digging up the earth in search of tasty treats. The sheer enthusiasm and gusto with which they go about their quest is truly infectious.

While piglets may seem like simple creatures, they actually serve a vital role in their environment. They play a part in redistributing nutrients in the soil as they root around, helping to fertilize the land and promote healthy plant growth.

Additionally, piglets are highly social animals. They form close bonds with their fellow piglets and establish a strong sense of community. They communicate with each other through a range of vocalizations, grunts, and squeals, creating an intricate language of their own.

As I reflect on the significance of piglets, I can’t help but draw parallels to our own lives. We, too, have a playful side that deserves to be nurtured and celebrated. We should take inspiration from the piglet’s joyous nature and embrace opportunities to explore and discover.

So the next time you encounter a piglet, take a moment to appreciate its adorable features and spirited demeanor. Let it serve as a reminder to approach life with a sense of wonder and playfulness. Just like the piglet, we have the power to bring joy and vitality to the world around us.

As I traveled past the small farming town of Ohrigstad, I couldn’t help but stop at an intriguing sight. It was a stall shaped like an enormous shoe, just begging to be photographed. I learned that this whimsical creation was the brainchild of a man named Ron van Zyl. He built it in 1991 as a gift for his wife, Yvonne. When Ron asked Yvonne what shape she wanted for the stall, she couldn’t get the image of a shoe out of her mind. And so, a giant shoe it became. Now, it proudly stands as a beacon along the R36, being known as “The Shoe.”

Continuing along the road for another 2 kilometers, I came across a turnoff onto the R532. This road leads to the breathtaking Three Rondavels, where I found myself surrounded by the captivating beauty of nature. As I stood at the viewpoint, I beheld a sight that left me in awe: three round mountain tops, the stunning Blyderivierspoort Dam, and the magnificent Blyde River Canyon. I discovered that this awe-inspiring canyon is not only the largest green canyon in the world, but it is also the third largest canyon overall. It truly is a natural wonder that must be seen to be believed.

I couldn’t help but be captivated by the fascinating story behind The Chubby Pig eatery, gift shop, nursery, and accommodation. Tucked away near Graskop, right by the serene banks of the Treur River, its name carries a profound meaning – “to mourn”. This moniker was given during a daring Voortrekker expedition in 1844 when Hendrik Potgieter and his fellow adventurers were believed to be lost on their way to Delagoa Bay, now known as Maputo Bay. The anguish and sorrow felt by their loved ones were commemorated in the name of the river that flowed nearby.

But not far from The Chubby Pig, something delightful happens. At Bourke’s Luck Potholes, the Treur meets the Blyde River, whose name translates to “happy”. This river, too, owes its name to Potgieter and his companions. To everyone’s relief, the party eventually made a safe return to their families, and this joyful outcome was immortalized in the river’s name.

Melody and Raynard Ferreira, the proprietors of The Chubby Pig, vividly recall the awe-inspiring sight of the Treur River surging with power after the recent summer rainfall. So much water flowed that the river seemed to inch closer to their establishment. It’s no surprise then that they cultivate an array of delicious produce like peaches, apricots, apples, figs, and even raise pigs against this breathtaking backdrop.

Welcome to the eatery – a paradise for meat lovers! We take pride in using our homegrown produce to create delicious jams, chutneys, and hot sauces. You can even find an array of homemade soaps, bath salts, sugar scrubs, CBD creams, and stylish leather bags, shoes, and clothing under our brand, Melo, in our gift shop.

If you’re looking for a serene setting to indulge your taste buds, you’ve come to the right place. Picture this: you sitting under the shade of a tree, enjoying a mouthwatering pulled pork vetkoek, while fish eagles soar above and otters play nearby. As you venture further, you’ll discover sugarbush trees lining the hills and a breathtaking cascade and rockpool along the river.

At our eatery, tranquility is paramount. That’s why we want you to take your time and savor every moment here. We even toyed with the idea of putting up a sign that says, “If you’re in a rush to get back to the city, this might not be your ideal spot.” After all, we believe in creating an experience that allows you to truly unwind and escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life.