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The Limpopo province is one of the most diverse and exciting destinations in South Africa. From wildlife to nature and culture, there is something for everyone.

About Limpopo

Limpopo is the northernmost province of the country, and its capital city is Polokwane. The name “Limpopo” has its etymological roots in the Nguni language, meaning “strong gushing waterfalls”.

The province covers an area of 125,755 square kilometers and has a population of approximately 5.6 million people. Limpopo is bounded by Botswana to the west, Zimbabwe to the north, and Mozambique to the east. The Vaal River forms the province’s southern boundary.

Why should you take a roadtrip to Limpopo?

Limpopo is one of the most beautiful and diverse provinces in South Africa (and I’m a little biased because it is my home province). From the majestic Drakensberg Mountains to the wildlife-rich Kruger National Park, there is something for everyone in Limpopo.

Here are five reasons why you should take a road trip to this incredible province:

1. The scenery is breath-taking

The Drakensberg Mountains provide a backdrop for the rolling hills and lush vegetation, while the Kruger National Park is home to an abundance of wildlife. There are also numerous game reserves and national parks where you can see rhinos, elephants, lions and other African wildlife up close.

  • Marakele National Park
  • Mabalingwe Nature Reserve
  • Welgevonden Nature Reserve
  • Kruger National Park
  • Mopholoholo Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre
  • Mapungubwe National Park
  • Sondela Rehab Centre
  • Modjadji Cycad Reserve

2. There is plenty to do

Whether you want to go on safari, hike in the mountains, or simply relax by the pool, there is plenty to keep you busy in Limpopo. There are also numerous cultural activities and attractions, such as museums, art galleries and traditional villages where you can learn about the local culture and history.

  • Mukondeni Pottery Village
  • Bakone Malapa Open-Air Museum
  • Debegeni Waterfall
  • Echo Caves
  • Magoebaskloof Hinking Trails
  • Big Baobab (Gravelotte)
  • Arend Dieperink Museum

… and if you want to hike:

  • Louis Changuion Hiking Trail
  • Lesodi Hiking Trail
  • Blyde River via Dientjies Falls
  • Magoebaskloof Hiking Trail
  • Lephalale Mountain Trail

3. The food is delicious

Limpopo is home to some interesting traditional delicacies…

  • Mopani worms – dried, roasted or in a dish
  • Magege or roasted termites – dried, roasted or in a dish
  • Chicken feet & heads (walkie-talkies) with samp and beans
  • Thihove – samp and fresh peanuts ‘frikkadels’
  • Tsophi – round balls of butternut and pap
  • Umqombothi – home-brewed beer

PS. I won’t be joining you for mopani worms anytime soon!

You might want to add these to your trip:

  • Zwakala Brewery
  • Qualito Craft Distillery
  • Geluksfontein Goat Cheese Farm
  • Wegraakbosch Organic Farm
  • Kuhestan Organic Farm

4. Adventure by car or through the air

Whether you want to swing between trees, hike in the mountains or try your hand at a 4×4 adventure.

  • Letaba 4×4 Eco-Trail
  • Luvuvhu 4×4 Eco-Trail
  • Makuya 4×4 Self-Drive Trail
  • Great Limpopo Wilderness Trail

… and if you want to zipline:

  • Magoebaskloof Canopy Tours
  • Waterberg Zipline Adventures

There are so many reasons to take a roadtrip to Limpopo and I haven’t even scratched the surface in this post! So what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and hit the road!

The SANI brand was established in 1997. SANI Car Rental is a South African homegrown car rental company. Vehicles available to rent include compact cars, economy cars, premium cars, people carriers and SUVs. SANI Car Rental serves customers throughout South Africa including at all major local and international airports. Visit SANI Car Rental at Polokwane International Airport.

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I didn’t expect to see Maasai in Zanzibar, so it was a bonus. I first spotted a Maasai walking on our trip from the airport and then at the hotel.
The Maasai people, as you know, are known as brave warriors that would go as far as take a kill from lions. They are born hunters and learn to use quite primitive (but effective) weapons. Their traditional clothing always include red, but also some blue – and consists of 2 sarongs, a belt to hang their weapon from and sandals.
The first full day on the island, after we received the news of my father-in-law’s passing, I spent my time taking photos and chatting to the beach walkers. Then I met Ngulele, one of the Maasai. He noticed that I walked around on my own with 2 cameras and he stopped to ask if all was OK. I briefly chatted to him and expressed my wish to take photos of the Maasai at the resort – and asked if he could organize this. He quickly agreed.
That night I was sitting outside watching the sunset when he stopped to chat with me. He told me that he goes home once a year depending on when the low season is at the hotel. He usually only goes home for a month at a time. He said that most of the guys did the same and that we can take the photo the following night.
The following night they all arrived. The excitedly chatted to each other and loved that I specially asked to take photos of them. However, next moment one of the Maasai was snapping pictures while I got to be in the picture holding a traditional weapon. These pictures were taken after the sun set… so I’m super chuffed they came out so well!

That photo session with the Maasai, was the most memorable moment of the trip to Zanzibar.

After that I took photos of some of the Maasai (as I found them in daylight) with my Instax. A thank you that they could give to someone special at home.