Things To Do
in Secunda
Secunda is a planned town in Mpumalanga built around energy and coal industries. It sits on the Highveld with wide streets, modern amenities, and easy road links to Johannesburg and other Mpumalanga destinations. The town centers around the Sasol Secunda Synfuels Operations and features a large mall, parks, and a mix of cultural influences.
Visitors will find it a practical base for exploring the broader region while enjoying a comfortable South African town setting.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at a local café, enjoying the South African sunshine. After your meal, take a stroll through the Secunda Central Business District, marveling at its blend of modern architecture and local shops. Don't miss the opportunity to visit the nearby Secunda Mall for a glimpse of local life and culture.
In the afternoon, embark on a guided tour of the Sasol Museum, where you can learn about the history of the town and the innovative processes behind Sasol's synthetic fuel production. Afterward, enjoy a light lunch at one of the eateries in the area, savoring traditional South African dishes. Take time to relax in the park nearby, allowing the afternoon to unfold at a leisurely pace.
As evening approaches, head to a local pub or restaurant to experience Secunda's nightlife. Engage with locals over a delicious dinner, trying dishes like boerewors or biltong. End your evening with a stroll along the scenic lake, where the sunset casts beautiful reflections on the water.
Begin your day with a hearty breakfast at your accommodation, setting the tone for a day focused on Sasol's heritage. Visit the Sasol Synfuels Operations plant for a guided tour that reveals the innovative technology behind synthetic fuels. Learn about the town’s development and the impact of Sasol on the local economy and environment.
After the tour, grab a lunch at a nearby restaurant and try some local favorites. Spend your afternoon at the Sasol Art Museum, appreciating the works of local artists and understanding the artistic culture of Secunda. Engage with the exhibits that tell the story of the region through various artistic expressions.
Conclude your day with dinner at a traditional South African steakhouse, where you can enjoy a selection of grilled meats. As you dine, soak in the lively atmosphere and perhaps even catch some live music. After dinner, take a short walk around the area, absorbing the vibrant local culture.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| 🍝Meal for two at a mid-range restaurant | $20-40 |
| ☕Cup of coffee | $1-3 |
| 🚕Taxi start/short ride | $2-5 |
| 🏨One-night hotel/guesthouse | $40-70 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Convenient base for exploring Mpumalanga and Gauteng.
- Modern amenities and a family-friendly atmosphere.
- Limited nightlife compared to bigger cities.
- Industrial surroundings may feel remote to some visitors.
- "Hallo" - Hello (Afrikaans)
- "Dankie" - Thank you (Afrikaans)
- "Goeie dag" - Good day (Afrikaans)
- "Waar is die toilet?" - Where is the toilet?
- "Sawubona" - Hello (isiZulu)
- "Ngiyabonga" - Thank you (isiZulu)
Places to Visit in Secunda
Visit one of these nice places.
Dramatic industrial towers and glow at sunset offer striking photo subjects while observing safety guidelines.
Public art along main streets provides colorful, urban photography opportunities.
Architectural details and everyday life yield candid street photography.
Wide open spaces on the outskirts offer expansive landscape shots.
Food in Secunda
Secunda Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Maize porridge served with grilled meat or gravy; a staple comfort dish found in most South African homes and eateries.
Must-Try!
Grilled sausage in a roll with tomato and onion; a popular street-food option and braai staple.
Coarse-ground corn kernels (samp) cooked with beans, often served as a hearty side dish.
Assorted grilled meats served with chakalaka and pap; a quintessential South African experience.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A local market offering fresh produce, snacks, and ready-to-eat treats on weekends.
Casual options from fast-casual to sit-down meals within the Secunda Mall complex.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Afrikaans, Zulu, and English greetings are common. Address people politely in business settings and keep voices moderate in public spaces.
Safety
Tipping in Secunda
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, 10-15% is customary if service is not included. Cash tips are common; cards and mobile payments are widely accepted.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot days with afternoon thunderstorms are common; carry water, sunscreen, and a light jacket for cooler evenings.
Cool to mild days with chilly mornings; frost is possible on clear mornings and sunny days follow.
Mild temperatures with pleasant, crisp mornings and comfortable days for outdoor exploring.
Blooming landscapes and comfortable temperatures; great for hiking and photography.
Secunda at Night
Hiking in Secunda
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Nearby reserve with short hikes and birdwatching opportunities.
Pleasant trails with dam views suitable for half-day trips.
Airports
How to reach Secunda by plane.
Main international gateway for the region; typically a 1.5-2 hour drive depending on traffic.
Regional airport offering domestic flights; farther from Secunda but serves as an alternative for some routes.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A significant presence; Afrikaans is commonly spoken alongside English and Zulu.
Multilingual residents with rich cultural diversity.
A mix of professionals supporting the town's energy and mining industries.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A popular sport across South Africa; local clubs and schools host matches.
Widely played in schools and community leagues with local support.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Secunda.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are widely available; look for vegetable stews, salads, grilled vegetables, and sides like pap and morogo.