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Magoebaskloof's quaint hamlet
Haenertsburg, Limpopo
Ebenezer Dam in Haenertsburg.
© Bridget Hilton-Barber
Did you know?
Haenertsburg is named after CF Haenert, one of the early pioneers to the area.
Take a rural ramble around Haenertsburg, the charming hamlet at the heart of Limpopo’s Magoebaskloof Mountains. It’s a high mist and rainfall area with thick indigenous forests, rolling grasslands and incredible views.
Browse the village’s lovely shops, including arts and crafts, books, curios, fresh produce, and antiques and collectibles. There are also a few charming bistros and the iconic village pub named after Iron Crown, the district’s highest peak.
Haenertsburg is a great place to stroll for a few hours. If you’re feeling energetic, take a walk to the local cemetery for amazing views across the Magoebaskloof. A few blocks away from the village centre is the local arbour park, planted with a variety of trees from across the world and is a gentler walk for those less inclined to trudge up steep hills.
From the village, the Magoebaskloof Pass descends to the town of Tzaneen. This is one of the steepest mountain passes in South Africa, dropping over 600m in its descent, with adventure at just about every turn. There are viewing platforms, waterfalls, forests, roadside stalls and places of historic interest along the way.
The mountains and wilderness areas around Haenertsburg also offer plenty of adventure, ranging from gentle forest rambles to thrilling canopy tours. There are plenty of picnic spots and wilderness areas where you can escape for a few hours.
The area is also a popular spot for fly-fishing and birding. The nearby Ebenezer Dam, a short drive from the village, is home to a variety of watersports and the annual Ebenezer Mile marathon.
Travel tips & Planning info
Who to contact
How to get here
Haenertsburg lies north-east of Polokwane, along the R71.
Around the area
Visit the Cheerio Gardens, set around three silver dams against a backdrop of greenery. In spring the resident azaleas and cherry trees burst into colour. In winter, it is desolate but beautiful.
Tours to do
Take a tour of Wegraakbosch Farm, a local organic cheese factory where you can see how cheese all made, from cow to curd to cheese.
Get around
It's a small village so walking is the best way to get around.
What to pack
Always take an extra layer when rambling around here, the area is prone to sudden mist and rain.
Where to stay
There are plenty of guesthouses, B&B's, lodges and hotels in and around Haenertsburg and Magoebaskloof.
What to eat
Try Picasso's, a family restaurant set in a spacious wooden cabin on stilts, offering hearty country fare and a cheerful atmosphere.
What's happening
The Magoebaskloof Spring Fair occurs every September, to coincide with the colourful arrival of spring.
There is also an Holistic Fair every July.
Best buys
Visit the Pennefather complex in the village centre, which has a second-hand bookshop and a shop selling antiques, bric-a-brac and collectibles.