Limpopo is the kind of province that is a treat for drivers who are willing to take the scenic route.
Jura Bakx/Unsplash
South Africa’s northernmost province stretches from the Waterberg in the south to the Limpopo River and Zimbabwean border in the north. Rather than treating Limpopo as a place to drive through on the way to Kruger National Park, turn the journey itself into the holiday. Here are five road trips that show off different sides of the province.
1. The Waterberg road trip
Mokopane → Vaalwater → Marken → Thabazimbi
The Waterberg is a natural starting point for a Limpopo road trip, particularly if you are travelling from Gauteng. The N1 brings you towards Mokopane, from where the R518 heads through the Waterberg towards Marken. This is one of the province’s most scenic drives, with the road passing through the Waterberg Mountains and the distinctive Red Beds. These rusty sandstone formations began forming around 1.9 billion years ago, with their colour caused by iron particles in the rock. Allow time for wildlife viewing, hiking and stops at nature reserves. The Waterberg is also part of a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, with conservation areas and private reserves scattered across the landscape. Nylsvley Nature Reserve, an internationally recognised wetland, is another worthwhile detour for birders.
2. The Magoebaskloof mountain drive
Polokwane → Haenertsburg → Magoebaskloof → Tzaneen
The R71 east from Polokwane provides a dramatic change of scenery. The relatively open landscape gradually gives way to the cooler, greener mountains around Haenertsburg and Magoebaskloof before descending towards Tzaneen. Known as the Land of the Silver Mist, Magoebaskloof is characterised by forests, waterfalls, mountain scenery and fertile farmland. The area is also known for fruit farming, including avocados, blueberries and kiwifruit. Make time for a hike, a waterfall stop or a leisurely lunch in Haenertsburg. The Magoebaskloof Hiking Trail is another option for travellers wanting to swap four wheels for two feet. The three-day, 50km trail passes through indigenous forest, grassland, rivers and waterfalls.
3. The Tzaneen and Modjadji road trip
Tzaneen → Modjadjiskloof → Modjadji → Bolobedu
From Tzaneen, head towards the mountains and the world of the Modjadji people. The region combines lush scenery with one of Limpopo’s most distinctive cultural landscapes. The Modjadji Cycad Reserve protects an extraordinary concentration of ancient cycads. These plants are among the oldest surviving seed plants on Earth, and the reserve is particularly impressive when the cycads produce their orange seeds during summer. The area also provides an opportunity to learn about the Modjadji tradition and the Rain Queens of the Balobedu people. A guided cultural experience can add important context to the landscape and its history.
4. The Soutpansberg and Vhembe road trip
Makhado → Elim → Thohoyandou → Lake Fundudzi → Thathe Vondo
For travellers interested in culture, mountains and landscapes with a strong sense of place, head north to the Soutpansberg. Makhado, formerly known as Louis Trichardt, sits beneath the Soutpansberg and makes a useful base for exploring the region. From here, routes lead towards Venda cultural sites, artists’ studios, forests and mountain landscapes. Lake Fundudzi and the Thathe Vondo Holy Forest are particularly significant within Venda traditions. Because several sites have cultural and spiritual importance, travellers should visit respectfully and use local guides where appropriate. The route can also incorporate the Ribola Art Route, where visitors can meet local artists and craftspeople.
5. The northern Limpopo wildlife and heritage road trip
Makhado → Musina → Mapungubwe National Park
This is the road trip for travellers who want to combine wildlife with archaeology and some of Limpopo’s most unusual scenery. Continue north towards Musina, where the landscape becomes hotter and drier and baobabs become increasingly prominent. The Musina Nature Reserve protects one of South Africa’s notable concentrations of these enormous trees. From Musina, continue towards Mapungubwe National Park. The Mapungubwe Cultural Landscape is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and preserves evidence of a powerful southern African kingdom that flourished between about AD 1220 and 1300. One of the most memorable stops is the Confluence Viewpoint, where the Limpopo and Shashe rivers meet and the borders of South Africa, Botswana and Zimbabwe converge.
Limpopo’s great strength is its variety. The best way to experience it is to slow down, leave room for detours and let the landscape become part of the journey.
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