Secunda is an industrial town in Mpumalanga, in the eastern part of South Africa. It is known as the country's synthetic fuel capital, built around what is described as the world's largest coal-to-liquid fuel plant. For most visitors it is a place to understand how energy is made rather than a traditional holiday town.
What to expect
Secunda is a working place first. Its character comes from the plant that shaped it, and the town's streets, facilities and daily rhythm reflect that industrial purpose. Visitors interested in engineering, energy policy or the practical side of fuel production will find the setting unusual and informative.
- A close look at coal-to-liquid technology, one of the more distinctive energy processes in the world
- An industrial landscape that is very different from the typical South African tourist route
- A base for exploring the surrounding Highveld countryside
The Mpumalanga Highveld
Secunda is also a gateway to the scenic Mpumalanga Highveld. The region's open grasslands, rolling hills and rural towns offer a quieter contrast to the industry at the centre of Secunda. A stay here can combine a visit to the plant's world with time spent outdoors and in the wider province.
Secunda suits visitors with a specific curiosity about energy and industry, or those travelling through Mpumalanga who want to see a side of the region beyond its landscapes. Those looking for a conventional resort or city break may find it better as a stop within a longer trip.