Unlocking the 017 Area Code in South Africa: Your Complete Guide to Southern Mpumalanga

Education / December 11, 2025 / Melly Brown

In a world where a quick phone call can connect you across vast distances, understanding local area codes is essential—especially in diverse countries like South Africa, where telephony plays a key role in business, family ties, and everyday life. If you’ve been searching for the 017 area code in South Africa, you’re likely dealing with a call from the heart of Mpumalanga province or simply curious about this prefix. Unlike mobile numbers starting with 08, the 017 code is a geographic landline identifier tied to a specific region: Southern Mpumalanga, with Ermelo as its central hub.

This ultimate guide is your one-stop resource for everything about the 017 area code—from its exact location and coverage to dialing instructions, historical context, and practical tips for callers and businesses. Packed with detailed insights, FAQs, and local highlights, it’s designed to answer your questions comprehensively while helping you stay connected safely. Whether you’re relocating, verifying a number, or exploring the region, read on to master the 017 code!

What Is the 017 Area Code in South Africa?

The 017 area code is a three-digit prefix used for fixed-line (landline) telephone numbers in South Africa. Administered by the Independent Communications Authority of South Africa (ICASA), it falls under the country’s closed numbering plan, introduced in 2007 to standardize nine-digit national numbers. All South African area codes begin with a “0” trunk prefix, followed by two or three digits, and then a seven-digit subscriber number—making 017 a classic example of a three-digit code.

Unlike mobile codes (07x or 08x), 017 numbers are geographically specific, meaning they’re linked to physical locations rather than portable across the country. This code serves landlines, VoIP services, and some business lines in its designated area, promoting local connectivity at standard rates.

Key fact: If you spot a number like 017 123 4567, it’s almost certainly from Southern Mpumalanga—no other region in South Africa uses this prefix.

Where Is the 017 Area Code Located? Coverage and Key Towns

The 017 area code blankets Southern Mpumalanga, a province renowned for its stunning landscapes, wildlife reserves, and agricultural heritage. Centered around Ermelo (officially eMbalenhle), this region sits in the eastern part of South Africa, bordering Eswatini (Swaziland) to the east and KwaZulu-Natal to the south. It’s about 200 km east of Johannesburg, making it a gateway to the Lowveld and Kruger National Park.

Here’s a breakdown of the primary coverage:

Town/City	Description	Approx. Population	Notable Features
Ermelo (eMbalenhle)	The main hub and largest town under 017.	100,000+	Coal mining center, agricultural hub (maize, cattle); home to the Ermelo Showgrounds for annual fairs.
Standerton	Northern edge of the code’s reach.	30,000	Industrial town on the Vaal River; known for farming and proximity to the N17 highway.
Piet Retief (eMkhondo)	Southeastern town near the Eswatini border.	60,000	Timber industry powerhouse; gateway to scenic drives and the Mkhondo Nature Reserve.
Bethal	Western outpost.	50,000	Grain production leader; features the Bethal Agricultural Show and rolling Highveld plains.
Volkrust	Southern tip.	15,000	Historical town with Boer War sites; near the Volksrust Nature Reserve for hiking and birdwatching.

Note: Coverage extends to surrounding rural areas, farms, and townships. Populations are 2023 estimates from Stats SA; exact boundaries can overlap slightly with adjacent codes like 013 (for Nelspruit). For precise number lookup, use ICASA’s tools or reverse search apps.

This region’s mix of Highveld grasslands and escarpments makes it ideal for eco-tourism, with attractions like the Nooitgedacht Dam Nature Reserve (near Ermelo) offering fishing and game viewing.

History of the 017 Area Code: From Provincial Allocation to Modern Connectivity

South Africa’s telephone system evolved from colonial-era manual exchanges to a digital powerhouse. The 017 code traces its roots to the apartheid-era provincial structure:

Pre-1990s: Area codes were allocated based on four provinces (including Transvaal, where Mpumalanga was part). Ermelo’s lines used longer formats.
1990s Phased Numbering Plan: As Telkom expanded, two- and three-digit codes were introduced to handle growth. 017 was assigned to Southern Transvaal (now Mpumalanga) to distinguish it from denser areas like Johannesburg’s 011.
2007 Closed Numbering Plan: Mandated full nine-digit dialing (0 + area code + number), eliminating short codes. This change, enforced by ICASA, added the “trunk 0” for all domestic calls and boosted capacity for over 20 million lines nationwide.
Post-2010 Digital Shift: With mobile penetration exceeding 100%, 017 numbers integrated VoIP and number portability, allowing users to retain codes when switching providers.

Today, amid South Africa’s 5G rollout, 017 remains vital for rural connectivity, supporting mining (Ermelo’s coal fields) and agribusiness. Fun trivia: Ermelo’s first exchange opened in 1910, connecting isolated farms during the railway boom!

How to Dial 017 Area Code Numbers: Step-by-Step Instructions

Dialing in South Africa is straightforward but varies by location. Always use the full nine digits for accuracy.

Within South Africa

Local call (same area): Dial the seven-digit subscriber number (e.g., for 017 123 4567 in Ermelo, just 123 4567).
From another region: Include the full code—017 + seven digits (e.g., 017 123 4567 from Cape Town).
Cost: Landline-to-landline: ~R0.50–R1 per minute; mobiles: R1–R2 (check Vodacom/MTN rates).

From Abroad

International access code (e.g., 00 from Europe, 011 from US) + 27 (SA country code) + 17 (drop the 0) + seven digits.
Example: From the UK to a Standerton number (017 456 7890): 00 27 17 456 7890.
Pro tip: Use WhatsApp or Skype for free calls over data—essential in Mpumalanga’s variable coverage.

For directory assistance: Dial 1023 (local) or 109 (international inquiries).

Common Myths, Scams, and FAQs About the 017 Area Code

Is 017 a mobile code?

No—mobiles start with 07x/08x. 017 is strictly geographic landline.

Are 017 numbers prone to scams?

Less so than 08x premiums, but “wangiri” (one-ring) scams exist. If an unknown 017 calls and hangs up, don’t redial—verify via caller ID apps like Truecaller. Report to ICASA at 011 566 1444.

Can I port an 017 number nationwide?

Yes, since 2008, but it retains geographic rates for local calls.

What’s the difference between 017 and 013?

017 covers southern Mpumalanga (Ermelo); 013 is northern (Nelspruit/Kruger area).

International mix-ups?

No direct conflicts—+27 17 is uniquely South African. (Note: In some countries like the US, 017 isn’t used; closest is overlay codes.)

How do I get an 017 number?

Contact Telkom, Vodacom Fibre, or MTN—starting at R100/month for landlines.

Why Businesses Love the 017 Area Code in Mpumalanga

For companies in agriculture, mining, or tourism, an 017 number builds local trust. Ermelo’s code signals reliability in coal exports, while Piet Retief’s suits timber firms. Setup via Telkom’s business lines includes call forwarding and IVR—boosting reach to the province’s 4.3 million residents. With Mpumalanga’s GDP growth (7% annually), it’s a smart investment.

Explore Southern Mpumalanga: Local Gems Under the 017 Code

Beyond calls, visit for:

Ermelo Lake: Serene spot for picnics and boating.
Mpumalanga Route 17: Scenic drive linking 017 towns, with biltong stops.
Annual Highveld Air Show: In Bethlehem (nearby, but 017-adjacent vibes).

Final Thoughts: Connect with Confidence in the 017 Area

The 017 area code in South Africa isn’t just digits—it’s a lifeline to Southern Mpumalanga’s vibrant communities, from Ermelo’s bustling markets to Standerton’s river valleys. Whether you’re calling family, sealing a deal, or planning a trip, this guide equips you to dial right and discover more.