Limpopo in South Africa is famous for its quirky baobab trees. Still, it’s also a great holiday destination offering plenty of malaria-free game parks, brilliant bird watching, fascinating mountain ranges, untamed bush landscapes and rich cultural heritage. It's home of the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Mapungubwe, a big drawcard for visitors who come to see the archaeological site with findings that date all the way back to the Stone Age. Known as the Gateway to Africa, Limpopo borders Mozambique, Botswana and Zimbabwe, making it an ideal base from which to explore these exciting destinations.
Why we love holidays in Limpopo
- Within close proximity to Johannesburg and Pretoria, Limpopo is ideal for weekend getaways.
- The province is home to some of Africa’s best game reserves, including the Kruger National Park.
- Attend the Magoebaskloof Spring Festival to see colourful orchids and flowers.
- See the legendary baobab trees, including the oldest in the world – it’s been there for over 3,000 years!
- Enjoy Amarula, the South African liqueur made from the Marula tree that is indigenous to the Limpopo area.
The country’s northernmost province, Limpopo is home to wide-open spaces where the Big 5 roam free. The region also boasts monumental mountains such as the Waterberg and the Soutpansberg, hundreds of species of birds and plenty of hiking trails with breathtaking panoramas on display. Let’s not forget its archaeological treasures, one of which is a UNESCO-listed site Mapungubwe National Park, a location that offers the opportunity to visit Zimbabwe, Mozambique or Botswana as well, and landscapes that make exploring a treat.
Home to one of South Africa’s most famous attractions, the legendary Kruger National Park, the country’s northernmost province, Limpopo, is an exciting holiday destination with a plethora places to visit and things to do. Limpopo attracts all sorts of holidaymakers – wildlife lovers, adrenaline sports enthusiasts, history buffs, birdwatchers, music lovers… you name it. Whatever type of Limpopo holiday package you’re after, you’ll find plenty to do here, whether it’s viewing the Big 5, discovering the oldest baobab in the world, unearthing myths and legends or simply playing a game of golf on a championship course.
Things to do in Limpopo
- Visit the Cave of Hearths, home to Stone Age artefacts.
- Explore Lake Fundudzi and Thathe Vondo Forest.
- Discover Thulamela, ruins of an ancient stone-walled city.
- Enjoy excellent birdwatching in Modjadji Nature Reserve.
- Visit the Makapan’s Caves and learn about the Ndebele people.
- Discover the oldest baobab in the world.
- Visit the elephant sanctuary near Bela Bela.
- Take a helicopter ride to the top of Hangklip Mountain to tee off at the legendary Extreme 19th, the world’s longest and highest Par 3.
- Take an adrenaline-packed canopy tour in Magoebaskloof.
- Try a dawn hot air balloon safari in Entabeni Safari Conservancy or Mabula Private Game Lodge.
- Go on a horseback safari in Polokwane.
Limpopo province features Stone Age archaeological treasures, exquisite orchids and wildflowers and famous trees including the marula and the baobab, plus a variety of activities from golf and white-water rafting to ziplining. With such a variety of holiday experiences, it’s challenging to decide what type of holiday package to choose. So contact us to help you plan a trip to this magnificent part of the country.
When is the best time to visit?Â
- Limpopo is a year-round destination.
- In summer, the bush is beautifully lush and green.
- Winter is best for game viewing in the Northern Kruger National Park and other reserves, as it is easier to spot game in the sparse bush.
Getting there Â
- Flight duration from Johannesburg to Polokwane: 50 minutes.
- Flight duration from Johannesburg to Hoedspruit: 55 minutes.
- Flight duration from Johannesburg to Phalaborwa: 1 hour, 10 minutes.
What can I do to be a responsible traveller?
- Wherever possible, buy local food and souvenirs and support local artisans.
- Avoid single-use plastic; instead, take fabric shopping bags with you.
What do I do in an emergency?
- Contact the Thompsons Holidays 24-hour care line to assist.
