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Travel Directory |
Limpopo Province ~ Regions |
The Limpopo Collection |
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WaterbergThe majestic Waterberg wilderness area offers an unrivalled African bush experience. The region is close to the Gauteng metropolitan area (only two and a half to three hours' drive), the absence of malaria and an excellent tourism infrastructure make the region a sought-after holiday destination. The waterberg Range, so called because of the many rivers, streams and wetlands, is the collective name for the Sand River Mountains, the Hoekberg, the Swaershoek Mountains and the Moepel Range. The southern slopes of the mountains are characterised by vertical cliffs and awesome rock formations, whilst the northern slopes descend gradually to the vast bushveld savannah plains beyond. The mountains stretch for 150km in an arc from Thabazimbi in the west, past Modimolle to Mokopane in the east. Besides spectacular mountain scenery, the Waterberg offers a fascinating range of indigenous trees and shrubs and incorporates many game and nature reserves. The area offers sanctuary to some 75 mammal species, including the big 5, as well as the African python and the Nile crocodile. With more than 350 bird species, the Waterberg is a birdwatcher's paradise. The Waterberg has a long history of human occupation and has been inhabited by a succession of people over hundreds of thousands of years. From Stone Age people, to the San (bushmen), Khoikhoi herders and Iron Age people, all have left their traces in the form of paintings or iron smelting furnaces. The region is rapidly emerging as one of the most important San rock art sites is South Africa and boasts many fascinating rock paintings and geological sites to visit. :: Lephalale --------------------------------- MORE INFORMATION +27 (0)14 763 2193 --------------------------------- Situated on the Mokole River about 60km from the Botswana border and the Stockpoort Border Post. Lephalale has mild winter months and moderate summer evenings. The absence of malaria is an added bonus for tourists who visit the area. Coal mining is the economic mainstay of the town. The Kumba Grootegeluk opencast coal mine is the largest mine of its kind in South Africa and provides ISCOR in Pretoria. The Matimba Power Station is the largest dry-cooled power station in the world. DISTANCES & WEATHER: From Polokwane - 230km From Pretoria - 280km From Johannesburg - 350km Summer temperature - 19.9 - 32.5 degrees celcius Winter temperature - 7.7 - 24.5 degrees celcius ATTRACTIONS & ACTIVITIES:
:: Mokopane --------------------------------- MORE INFORMATION +27 (0)15 491 845 --------------------------------- The town is named after the Ndebele chief Mokopane (also known as Makapan) and was previously known as Potgietersrus. Mokopane serves a rich agricultural area in which wheat, tobacco, cotton, beef, maize, peanuts and citrus are farmed. The Zebediela Citrus estate, 55km to the south east, is one of the biggest citrus farms in the southern hemisphere. Just 2 hours from Johannesburg, the town acts as a perfect getaway destination. DISTANCES & WEATHER: From Polokwane - 57km From Pretoria - 215km From Bela-Bela - 270km From Naboomspruit - 45km Summer temperature - 17.7 - 29.3 degrees celcius Winter temperature - 6.9 - 22.1 degrees celcius ATTRACTIONS & ACTIVITIES:
:: Modimolle --------------------------------- MORE INFORMATION +27 (0)14 717 5211 --------------------------------- The town of Nylstroom has been renamed to Modimolle. Modimolle is the commercial centre of the Waterberg district and is famous for its export of grapes and soft fruits such as peaches and watermelons. The pleasant climate with hot summers and moderate winters makes Modimolle a year round holiday destination. Only 1 and a half hours drive from Johannesburg on the N1 to Zimbabwe. The route from Bela-Bela to Modimolle along the 101 route offers both an alternative to the toll road and exceptional scenery. DISTANCES & WEATHER: From Polokwane - 148km From Pretoria - 130km From Bela-Bela - 27km From Naboomspruit - 45km Summer temperature - 33 degrees celcius Winter temperature - 19 degrees celcius ATTRACTIONS & ACTIVITIES:
:: Bela-Bela ----------------------------- MORE INFORMATION +27 (0)14 717 5211 ----------------------------- Bela-bela means 'Boiling Place' in Sotho. In English it is known as Warmbaths, its official name until 2002 when it was changed to Bela-bela. The pleasant mild climate during the winter months and the average of 286 sunny days every year, make the town a popular holiday destination. The town is only an hour's drive from Gauteng and lies on the Springbok Flats on the highway to the North. Bela-Bela is world-renowned as a holiday and health destination. The hot mineral springs bubble out of the earth at about 22 000 litres per hour. The temperature of the water is a pleasant 53°C and is rich in sodium chloride, calcium carbonate and other salts that have healing properties. DISTANCES & WEATHER: From Polokwane - 144km From Pretoria - 100km From Johannesburg - 170km Summer temperature - 15.7 - 29.3 degrees celcius Winter temperature - 6.7 - 24 degrees celcius ATTRACTIONS & ACTIVITIES:
CapricornThe city of Polokwane (Pietersburg) is the capital of the Limpopo and the commercial and industrial centre of the Great North. It lies within the heart of the Capricorn region of the province - the bottom of the tropic of capricorn crosses this region. The Pietersburg Game Reserve offers visitors the opportunity to walk or drive to see the 21 species on offer. White Rhinos are regularly encountered. The Pietersburg Bird Sanctuary has over 280 species and is a must for all visitors. The 18 hole golf course will ensure that the ardent golfer wouldn't be disappointed. South Africa's newest civil airport, Gateway International, will ensure that tourism will grow in the Limpopo at an increased rate. The historical and cultural attractions of the region are equally varied. They embrace Scan rock art, a host of legendary characters who made history in the region, the Voortrekkers who arrived here to escape an oppressive regime in the Cape and their conflict with the locals who considered this magical region their home and weren't always eager to share it. Visitors will gain insight into the tapestry of human drama that unfolded on this land through archaeological evidence unearthed and preserved, the legacy left by the San in their rock art and relics preserved in the many museums and memorials of the region. :: Polokwane --------------------------------- MORE INFORMATION +27 (0)15 290 2010 --------------------------------- Polokwane, the vibrant capital of the province, is one of the fastest growing cities in the southern hemisphere. Founded in the gold rush days of the 1880s, it has witnessed Stone Age nomads, Iron Age settlements, European migrations, wars and political upheaval. For the tourist in today's peaceful times, it promises an abundance of fascinating historical sites and attractions. Polokwane meaning "Place of Safety" is a fitting name for the capital of Limpopo Province, known as the "Home of Peace", the largest metropolitan complex in the north and a major economic centre. DISTANCES & WEATHER: From Pretoria - 261km From Johannesburg - 319km From Phalaborwa - 198km Summer temperature - 16.7 - 27.7degrees celcius Winter temperature - 5.3 - 20.5 degrees celcius ATTRACTIONS & ACTIVITIES:
:: Origstad --------------------------------- MORE INFORMATION +27 (0)15 290 2010 --------------------------------- Rich in History... Rich in Culture... Rich in Nature... Nestled in a fertile valley in the Mpumalanga Drakensberg between Lydenburg and the Abel Erasmus Pass, lies the oldest town on the Panorama Route, Ohrigstad. It was officially founded in 1845 by Voortrekker leader Andries Potgieter and at one time, served as the capital of the Zuid-Afrikaansche Republiek. Relics of Iron Age and Stone Age civilisations found in the area however, indicate that the Pedi and San groups lived here thousands of years ago. Today Ohrigstad is mostly a farming community and a diverse range of crops are produced. Ohrigstad lies in a malaria-free area and has a moderate climate. It has stunning natural scenery and a tranquil, peaceful environment. DISTANCES & WEATHER: From Pretoria: 345 km From Johannesburg: 375 km From Phalaborwa: 143 km From Polokwane: 175 km Summer temperature: 20 to 33 degrees Celcius Winter temperature: 8 to 22 degrees Celcius ATTRACTIONS & ACTIVITIES:
Soutpansberg:North of the Soutpansberg lies the broad valley of the Limpopo River. This is the home of the mighty baobabs which rise like tousle-headed giants out of the mopane woodland. Here, in the grey, green, greasy waters of the Limpopo the elephant child got its trunk. The larger towns in the area are Makhado (Louis Trichardt), Musina (Messina), Morbeng (Soekmekaar) and Thohoyandou. The rich culture of the Vhavenda people pervades this attractive yet often harsh region. The history of the Vhavenda may be traced in the stone walls that fortified the sandstone hills, and in the stone statues raised up into various shapes for more mystical purposes. Old caves reveal evidence that humans lived in these fortresses within living memory. Superb wood carvings, decorated clay pots, paintings, weavings and basketware are produced by talented artists and craftspeople. Spectacular scenery, warm hospitality, wildlife and comfortable accommodation make the Limpopo an almost unbeatable destination. Flowing across from the northwest and framing the northern border of this province lies the Soutpansberg area - a fertile region where baobabs guard the varied countryside and where rockart and caves entice the visitor to uncover its romantic and historical past. One of the main geographical features of this region is the Limpopo, the country's third most important river, which forms South Africa 's northern border. This life-giving river provides sustenance to the predominantly hot, dry lands through which it meanders and its many tributaries support several small, thriving tropical fruit farming villages in the region's northern areas. The Soutpansberg is also known for its myths & legends. :: Alldays ------------------------------- MORE INFORMATION +27 (0)15 516 0040 ------------------------------- The Alldays-region stretches from Vivo (between the Soutpansberg and the Blouberg) in the south, to Waterpoort in the east, the Limpopo River in the north and the Mogalakwena River (meaning "river of fierce crocodiles") in the west. The small rural town of Alldays serves an area of private game and hunting farms characterised by beautiful bushveld, a profusion of game and excellent resorts. Besides the "Big Five", giant trees are another noteworthy feature of the area. A baobab at Bakleikraal - 21 metres in circumference, a wild fig in Alldays - bigger than the famous Wonder Tree in Pretoria and a Nyala tree that covers a surface of 100 square metres, are of particular interest. The Venetia Diamond Mine is the biggest producer of diamonds in South Africa at present. Mapungubwe is another famous landmark. On this saddle-backed hill, called "the hill of the jackal", golden artefacts were found in ancient royal graves. The artefacts illustrating the flourishing trade and advanced social systems of African kingdoms in the 13th century are on display at the University of Pretoria. Other historical treasures include the San artworks in the mountains and the graves at Pontdrift. A ferry ("pont") - after which the border post Pontdrift is named - was used by elephant hunters of old to cross the Limpopo . The remnants of the first ferry can still be seen. Visitors to Pontdrift are elevated in carts and taken over the river to view hundreds of elephants. DISTANCES & WEATHER: From Polokwane - 207km From Musina - 120km Summer temperature - 18.4 - 29.1 degrees celcius Winter temperature - 8.4 - 23.5 degrees celcius ATTRACTIONS & ACTIVITIES:
:: Musina --------------------------------- MORE INFORMATION +27 (0)15 534 3500 --------------------------------- Messina has changed it's name to Musina. Musina has the distinction of being the most northern town in South Africa and the main port of entry from North Africa into South Africa . It is situated 540 m above sea level in the midst of the well-known Limpopo Valley. The dry bushveld provides excellent climate for the cultivation of citrus, mangoes and tomatoes as the main agricultural products.In autumn, dates are harvested and a truly unique product is produced, namely date liqueur. The harvest is small therefore the liqueur is still very exclusive and not available anywhere else in the world. Two other attractions for which Musina is known worldwide, are the baobab trees and impala lilies. The Tshipise mineral baths, a popular holiday resort, offers first-class accommodation and amenities. Fishing is a popular pastime and there are many fine angling spots in the area. DISTANCES & WEATHER: From Polokwane - 98km From Pretoria - 175km From Johannesburg - 220km Summer temperature - 14 - 29 degrees celcius Winter temperature - 6 - 26 degrees celcius ATTRACTIONS & ACTIVITIES:
:: Makhado --------------------------------- MORE INFORMATION +27 (0)15 516 0040 --------------------------------- Previously known as Louis Trichardt, Makhado is an important commercial, industrial and residential centre in the northern region, a true "gateway to Africa". Situated at the foot of the densely forested Soutpansberg Range near the Zimbabwean border and the Kruger National Park. Several routes around Louis Trichardt highlight the interesting aspects of the area, such as the fruit route to farms where a variety of fruit and nuts are produced, the arts and craft route in the Elim area where sisal mats, candles, silk-screen prints, batik articles, traditional Venda pots and wood carvings are made. It is also possible to see the life of the Shangaan people. DISTANCES & WEATHER: From Polokwane - 109km From Pretoria - 378km From Johannesburg - 436km Summer temperature - 18.4 - 29.1 degrees celcius Winter temperature - 8.4 - 23.5 degrees celcius ATTRACTIONS & ACTIVITIES:
:: Thohoyandou ------------------------------- MORE INFORMATION +27 (0)15 516 0040 ------------------------------- This far northeastern corner of the Limpopo became the home of migrant tribes seeking peace and sanctuary. In this "pleasant land" of Venda , they found high mountains, peaceful valleys, an abundance of clear water and some of the finest indigenous forests in southern Africa . In the silence of these forests many legends were born, telling of the spirits of the water and the sacred guardians of hidden lakes and ancient burial places. The VhaVenda culture is steeped in the spirit world and finds expression in the dances, woodcarvings, pottery and the decoration of their buildings. The Venda people are regarded amongst the finest artists in Africa and their original works are collected worldwide.The most well known Venda dance is the domba that is performed during initiation ceremonies. The domba drum is a prized possession, intricately carved in wood. Generations of carvers have kept this craft alive, and an open-air workshop near Mutale is worth a visit. This is the lush agricultural centre of Venda , with its banana plantations, acres of sub-tropical fruit, tobacco and maize lands. Coffee and tea plantations grace the higher slopes. It is a well-populated area, dotted with tidy villages. Each home expresses the character of its owner with low encircling walls being delightfully decorated with traditional motifs.In Vendaland itself there are many fascinating tourist attractions. Visit the sacred lake of Fundudzi that lies at the heart of VhaVenda mysticism. From time immemorial it has been regarded as a spirit world and in the past a great white python accepted human sacrifices in the form of young maidens before it would command the much-needed rains for the region. Lake Fundudzi lies hidden from view in a valley and may be visited only with permission from the Priestess of the Lake. It can be seen from the road winding up through the surrounding hills. The Thathe Vondo Forest , with its giant hardwoods, tumbling streams with canopies of tree ferns and creepers, is an impenetrable and mysterious place. It contains the Sacred Forest , where one may not walk for fear of angering the ancestral spirits. Even the VhaVenda common folk are forbidden here, as it houses the burial place of the chiefs of the Thathe clan. Throughout the Land of Legend you will be welcomed in traditional African manner. You will sense the compelling links with the past in the traditions and dances and you will be filled with the mystery of Africa . The best way to see Venda is with a knowledgeable guide, available at reasonable rates. Tours can be arranged to suit visitors' requirements. DISTANCES & WEATHER: From Polokwane - 207km From Makhado - 64km Summer temperature - 19.7 - 30.3 degrees celcius Winter temperature - 10.5 - 24.2 degrees celcius ATTRACTIONS & ACTIVITIES:
Valley Of The Olifants:The Limpopo consists of a variety of habitats - semi-desert, grassland savannah, bushveld and subtropical lowveld vegetation. The Valley of the Olifants contrasts sharply with the other regions. As the name suggests, this region falls within the valley of the great Olifants River that stretches from Giyani through to the Kruger National Park. It includes towns such as Phalaborwa, Tzaneen, Hoedspruit and Bosbokrand. The Olifants Valley is an area rich in wildlife, scenery, mountains, rivers, dams, history and cultural and ethnic attractions. The contrasts in climate, scenery and landscape are both striking and dramatic. Feast your senses on the emerald green expanses of tea plantations, the shimmering sweep of marula, mopani and acacia woodlands and the majesty of royal and ancient cycads. Complementing the unspoilt natural areas are many beautiful gardens where a host of flowering plants, shrubs and trees attract and delight visitors throughout the year. The Valley of the Olifants is the name given to the eastern lowveld and escarpment region of the Limpopo. Craggy mountains, huge man made and indigenous forests, trout streams and cascading waterfalls make the region special. On the escarpment looking over the Lowveld to the border of Mozambique is a unique cycad forest, guarded by the legendary Rain Queen. In the lowveld area the visitor experiences the real Africa. This part of Africa is still unhurried and unspoilt and the full splendour of nature and wildlife can be experienced. The private game reserves offer exciting wildlife with pleasures like open vehicle drives, walks and excellent company. This area is very rich in history, Stone age relics, iron age settlements and the distant past can be observed in the carvings, weavings, paintings and pottery of the Shangaan and Pedi people. Main towns in the area are Duiwelskloof, Giyani, Phalaborwa and Tzaneen. :: Hoedspruit --------------------------------- MORE INFORMATION +27 (0)15 793 3681 --------------------------------- Bordering on the Kruger National Park, Hoedspruit lies in the heart of the central Lowveld and is conveniently situated to explore the many game lodges, game reserves and other attractions in the vicinity. Here towering cliffs meet endless expanses of bush veld, where vast plains of marula, acacia, combretum and mopane woodlands accommodate a wealth of wildlife and stretch as far as the eye can see. DISTANCES & WEATHER: From Polokwane - 211km From Phalaborwa - 82km From Nelspruit - 210km Summer temperature - 19.9 - 31.5 degrees celcius Winter temperature - 2.9 - 25.2 degrees celcius ATTRACTIONS & ACTIVITIES:
:: Phalaborwa --------------------------------- MORE INFORMATION +27 (0)15 781 7267 --------------------------------- Called the town of two summers, because it never really gets cold in this subtropical town of mild winters and warm summers, Phalaborwa is the perfect year round holiday destination. It is the home of the famous African Marula tree and Amarula Cream Liqueur. Situated within walking distance of the central gate to the Kruger National Park, it is an ideal base from which to explore the world's most famous game reserve and the many scenic attractions of the Lowveld. Various opportunities to view wildlife are available from the Phalaborwa Gate daily. The town boasts one of the world's largest opencast mines, which have become a unique tourist attraction. What makes the mine particularly interesting is that what is now a big hole, was once a notable saddle backed hill called loolekop. DISTANCES & WEATHER: From Polokwane - 250km From Pretoria - 450km From Johannesburg - 500km Summer temperature - 20.4 - 31.4 degrees celcius Winter temperature - 10.9 - 25.2 degrees celcius ATTRACTIONS & ACTIVITIES:
:: Tzaneen -------------------------------- MORE INFORMATION +27 (0)15 307 7244 --------------------------------- Tzaneen is an effective subtropical garden town with a colourful profusion of indigenous and exotic plants. The town produces the majority of the country's mango's, avocado pears, paw-paws, tea and coffee, and contributes substantially to the total production of timer, citrus, litchis and other crops. Situated below the scenic magoebaskloof, Tzaneen offers visitors a change of scenery at almost every turn of the road. The Mountainous landscape, subtropical climate, lush indigenous vegetation alternating with cultivated plantations and the largely unspoiled natural environment, make this picturesque area one of the most attractive recreation and tourist areas in South Africa. DISTANCES & WEATHER: From Polokwane - 89km From Phalaborwa - 115km From Pretoria - 362km From Johannesburg - 420km Summer temperature - 18.9 - 29.1 degrees celcius Winter temperature - 8.7 - 23.5 degrees celcius ATTRACTIONS & ACTIVITIES:
MozambiqueLocated on the South East Coast of Africa, Mozambique is fast becoming one Africa's best and most affordable beach holiday and dive destinations in East Africa. The capital of Mozambique, Maputo, sits in the far south of the country, just north of the borders with Swaziland and South Africa. There are 10 provinces in Mozambique. From north to south: Cabo Delgado, Niassa, Nampula, Tete, Zambezia, Manica, Sofala, Inhambane, Gaza, and the southern-most Maputo. Size: Total Area: 801,590 square kilometers Land: 784,090 square kilometers Water: 15,500 square kilometers Coastline: 2,470 kilometers (circa 1,535 miles) Climate: Tropical to Sub-Tropical (Note that the Tropic of Capricorn runs through the southern end of Mozambique). Crops & Natural Resources: Due to the desert-like climate, there is very little arable land and soil. Thus, the natural resources most prominent are: coal, titanium, natural gas, hydropower, tatalum, and graphite. Severe droughts, cyclones, and floods in central and southern provinces also deters crop growth. INTERESTING SITES The Capital City: Formerly called Lourenzo Marquez, Maputo is the densely populated port city that serves as the capital of Mozambique. Expansive and popular, the city is much more obliging to tourists than most others in the country – there is even an international airport within its limits. 30 kilometers south of the city is the Maputo Elephant Reserve. James Blanchard, the late American investor, began a project in the late 1990s to increase and enhance tourist facilities. He would combine safari trips with trips to nearby beaches and islands. He lost his funding, however, as the project did not progress as expected. Sadly, the elephant population that was close to 350 in the early 1970s has decreased to less than 100 today. The reserve also houses hippos and crocidiles, antelope, and almost 400 species of birds. Xai-Xai (Shy-shy): Xai-Xai is the capital of the province of Gaza, the province immediately to the north of Maputo. Dense in business, namely trade and fishing, with numerous buildings, this town with a beautiful beach is more famous for its survival. The flood of 2000 caused a significant amount of damage, but the town recovered and is already fully flourishing and growing more than ever before. Ilha Do Mocambique (The Island of Mozambique): The Island of Mozambique, known to most locals as simply Ilia (Ilha), is a small coral island sized 2.5km (1.55 miles) north to south and 600 meters (roughly 1/3 of a mile) east to west. Several of the oldest extant colonial buildings of the Southern Hemisphere remain standing here. The city continues to hold prominence as one of the most beautiful cities in South Africa, and especially for its ship building which has reigned since before Da Gama sailed by at the end of the 15th century. Ilha do Mocambique is “one of the few old towns in Africa that has by and large kept its historical appearance.” “Every historical source that I’m aware of states that the Muslim population was forced to relocate to the mainland during the four centuries when Mozambique Island was the Portuguese centre of operations in East Africa.” However, once the capital was moved and the Portuguese fled Mozambique in 1975, the Muslims slowly came back over to their home city. This gives the city a more historical feel. Fortress of Sao Sebastao – former governor’s palace and the Church of Senhora Saude. The Church of Nossa Senhora Baluarte - the only 16th century building to have survived to present day – built in 1522 & the oldest standing European building in the southern hemisphere. Beira: Beira is one of the coastal cities of Mozambique. The main attraction of this city is the Gorongoza Mountain and National Park in the northwestern corner of Beira, close to the Zimbabwe border. Here, you may see over 200 bird varieties. Once, Gorongoza held a high reserve of the nation’s wild game, which brought thousands of visitors in every year; however, the war necessitated that game be used as food, so various species of buffalo, large cat, deer, and antelope no longer inhabit the area. |
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AFRICA UNLIMITED EXPEDITIONS & TRANSFERS Specializing in tailor-made tours in Limpopo and Kruger Park as well as the exciting Bush 2 Beach Tour combining the bush of South Africa with the beaches of Mozambique. Tel. & Fax: +27 15 781 7825 E-Mail: info@africaunltd.co.za Web: www.africaunltd.co.za |
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