eManzana, formerly and still widely known as Badplaas, is a small tourism and service town in the Chief Albert Luthuli Local Municipality of Mpumalanga’s Gert Sibande District. It lies along the R38 in the Komati River Valley, between Carolina, Barberton and the Eswatini border region. Mountain slopes, grassland, river valleys, farms and forestry areas surround the town, while the Dhlumudhlumu Mountains create a dramatic backdrop.
The name eManzana is commonly translated from siSwati as “healing waters”, referring to the natural hot mineral springs for which the town is famous. Local historical accounts record that Swazi communities knew and used the springs before the settlement developed. During the 1870s, the waters became increasingly known to travellers and prospectors, while the Afrikaans name Badplaas referred to a bathing place or spa farm.
The settlement’s early growth was closely linked to the hot springs and the gold rush in the De Kaap Valley near Barberton. Miners and travellers visited the warm mineral waters to rest after difficult journeys and physical labour. The springs were gradually developed into formal bathing facilities, and tourism became an enduring part of the town’s identity. eManzana today remains part of Mpumalanga’s Heritage and Genesis tourism routes.
Tourism, agriculture, forestry, retail and public services contribute to the local economy. Cattle farming, crop cultivation and forestry occur throughout the wider municipal area, while shops, schools, municipal services, accommodation establishments and small businesses serve eManzana and neighbouring rural communities. The town’s hot springs, mountain scenery and position on routes between the Highveld, Barberton and the Lowveld support visitor spending and hospitality employment.
eManzana has a temperate inland climate influenced by its valley and mountain setting. Summers are generally warm, green and rainy, with afternoon thunderstorms, mist and humid periods around the slopes. Winters are usually mild to cool during the day and considerably drier, with cold mornings and evenings. Visitors should prepare for rapid weather changes when travelling through the surrounding mountain passes.
The hot mineral pools at Badplaas, A Forever Resort are the town’s best-known attraction, accompanied by swimming pools, family recreation, walking routes and nature-based activities. The surrounding countryside also offers scenic drives, birdwatching, fishing by arrangement and photography. Songimvelo Nature Reserve protects an extensive mountain, grassland and river landscape containing wildlife, rare plants and archaeological remains. Wildlife sightings naturally vary according to the season and environmental conditions.
Accommodation in eManzana includes Badplaas, A Forever Resort, Ndalo Hotel and Conferencing, Badplaas Golf Club Guest House and Lodge and privately managed guest houses and self-catering properties. Dawsons Game and Trout Lodge offers additional country accommodation outside the town. Visitors can enjoy meals at the hotel dining room at Badplaas, A Forever Resort, the restaurant at Badplaas Golf Club and the restaurant at Dawsons Game and Trout Lodge. Local shops and takeaway outlets provide further casual choices.
Nearby attractions include Songimvelo Nature Reserve, Vygeboom Dam, the Komati River Valley and the scenic Genesis Route towards Barberton and Low’s Creek. Longer outings can include Barberton Makhonjwa Mountains World Heritage Site, Carolina, Machadodorp, Chrissiesmeer and nature destinations along the Mpumalanga escarpment. Whether you are exploring its history, enjoying its natural surroundings or simply relaxing, eManzana offers a memorable Mpumalanga experience. Discover accommodation, restaurants, local businesses, historical places, outdoor activities and nearby attractions through BlyLekker, and experience the distinctive character of eManzana.