Now known as eNtokozweni, meaning the place of happiness, Machadodorp was originally named after the Portuguese Major Joachim Machado who was a prominent engineer on the Pretoria to Delagoa Bay railway line.
A picture perfect town set on the Elands River and with a spectacular mountainous back-drop it provides the perfect weekend away bolt hole. It’s somewhere to withdraw from the rush of city living and enjoy the peace, tranquillity and beauty that envelopes this town. The ideal destination for both nature lovers, wanting to bask in the breath-taking scenery and rich variety of plant species and bird life, and outdoor enthusiasts wanting to get their blood pumping on invigorating walks, rock climbing adventures or even marathon training routes. This town has a lot of history too!
One of the most historically interesting aspects of the Highlands Meander is also found just outside eNtokozweni, the baKoni ruins. Scattered throughout the hills that surround eNtokozweni are thousands of stone walls, some suggesting buildings, others pointing at terraces. There are a number of explanations with the most universally accepted being that these were a vast complex of settlements, fields and roads. However, more controversial explanations by both renegade scientist Michael Tellinger and Hindu-expert Dr Cyril Hromnick also provide plausible alternatives if you are willing to open your mind to them.
eNtokozweni, or Machadodorp as the locals commonly refer to it, is the essence of a quaint Mpumalanga town, providing the perfect setting for anyone looking for a bit of rest, relaxation and rejuvenation.
*Information supplied by Mpumalanga Tourism & Parks Agency
