South Africa

Balfour

Balfour

Balfour is a small town located in the Mpumalanga province of South Africa. Situated approximately 90 kilometers east of Johannesburg, it i…

Best for you if…

  • A 4–5 day trip
  • Safari travelers
  • Wine tasting travelers
  • Visiting in December to February
Recommended stay
3-5 days
Best time
December to February
Walkability
Moderate
Guide depth
Deep guide
More about this guide

Balfour is a strong pick for safari & wine tasting — plan about 3-5 days. Peak season: December to February.

Deep guide guide · about 3 min to read · depth score 71/100 (coverage of intro, tips, and mapped places)

Moderate density — A mix of walkable clusters with some longer hops. (≈7 km span)

6 Places to explore
3-5 Recommended days
December to February Best season
8 Nearby places

Find nearby destinations

When to go

High season: December to February

JAN
FEB
MAR
APR
MAY
JUN
JUL
AUG
SEP
OCT
NOV
DEC

Best months for lower-cost travel: May · June · September · October

Weather

Autumn

15-25°C

Spring

15-25°C

Summer

25-35°C

Winter

5-15°C

How to get there

How to Reach Balfour in South Africa

Balfour is a town located in the Mpumalanga province of South Africa. Here are the steps to reach Balfour:

  1. Start by booking a flight to Johannesburg, the nearest major international airport.
  2. Upon arrival at Johannesburg's O.R. Tambo International Airport, you have several options to reach Balfour:
    • Hire a car from one of the car rental companies available at the airport. This will provide you with the most flexibility during your journey.
    • Take a taxi or an Uber from the airport to Balfour. Make sure to negotiate the fare beforehand.
    • If you prefer public transportation, take a Gautrain from the airport to Johannesburg Park Station. From there, you can catch a bus or a train to Balfour. Check the schedules and availability in advance.
  3. If you chose to drive, exit Johannesburg and head east on the N17 highway.
  4. Continue on the N17 for approximately 120 kilometers until you reach Balfour.
  5. Once you arrive in Balfour, you can navigate the town using GPS or follow the road signs to your specific destination.

Remember to plan your journey in advance, consider traffic conditions, and ensure you have the necessary travel documents.

Getting to know Balfour

Balfour is a small town located in the Mpumalanga province of South Africa. Situated approximately 90 kilometers east of Johannesburg, it is nestled in the heart of the Highveld region. Balfour is known for its scenic landscapes, rich history, and vibrant community.

Founded in 1898, Balfour was named after the British statesman Arthur James Balfour. The town was established during the gold rush era, when prospectors flocked to the area in search of their fortune. Although the gold mines have long been depleted, Balfour has retained its charm and character.

Today, Balfour serves as an important agricultural center in the region. The fertile soil and favorable climate have made it an ideal location for farming, particularly maize and sunflower cultivation. The town is surrounded by vast stretches of farmland, creating a picturesque rural setting.

In addition to its agricultural significance, Balfour is also home to a close-knit community. The residents take pride in their town and actively participate in various community events and initiatives. The town has a number of amenities, including schools, shops, and recreational facilities, catering to the needs of its residents.

Pre-trip checklist

Compiled from local tips, stay length, and season notes.

Local tips

  • Pack sunscreen and hats for protection from the sun.
  • Try local cuisine and traditional dishes.
  • Book accommodations and activities in advance during high season.
  • Carry comfortable walking shoes for exploring the city.
  • Respect the local customs and traditions.

Places worth exploring

6 places mapped for this destination

0–1
1–3
3–8
8–20
20+

Walking loops

Evening strolls, half-days, and fuller day loops — clustered by proximity.

Suggested 3-day outline

Places ordered by proximity into day buckets. Add what you like to your trip.

Frequently asked questions

Answers compiled from stay length, season, and local tips for this guide.

How many days do you need in Balfour?

Most travelers spend about 3-5 days in Balfour, South Africa.

When is the best time to visit Balfour?

High season is typically December to February.

Which months are more budget-friendly in Balfour?

Travelers often find better value in May, June, September, October.

What kind of trip is Balfour good for?

Balfour suits Safari, Wine tasting, Historical tours, Adventure activities.

Is Balfour walkable?

A mix of walkable clusters with some longer hops.

Any local tips for Balfour?

Pack sunscreen and hats for protection from the sun.

Build your trip

Add Balfour and the places you want to see — your itinerary stays on this device.

Multi-city ideas

Nearby combinations sharing travel styles. See all routes

  • Balfour → Villiers → Frankfort · ≈71 km
  • Balfour → Nigel → Springs · ≈50 km
  • Balfour → Villiers → Deneysville · ≈94 km

Same vibe

Destinations sharing travel styles, stay length, or region.

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