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The great unknown in the far north
Adventures in Polokwane
Game drive in one of Limpopo's wild areas.
© South African Tourism
Did you know?
The African Ivory Route covers over 2,000 kilometres across the western, northern and eastern boundaries of the Limpopo province.
Adventures in Polokwane itself are perhaps limited to the fun you'll have at the casino and the energy you'll generate at the stadium, but if you're looking for a sense of real African adventure - get into a 4x4 and go!
Around Polokwane, adventure is just the rev of an engine away. The city is the perfect starting point to the old African Ivory Route - a self-drive journey through the wildest heart of Limpopo province. It features a series of rustic, self-catering bush camps that follow in the footsteps of historical characters like rain queens and elephant hunters. The cultural and natural richness of the route provide ideal off-road travelling opportunities. To avoid disrupting ecosystems, the roads are basic and cater for 4x4s only. The bush camps are well-placed within the rural areas and nature reserves for tourists to experience the beauty and character of each area.
Limpopo's rugged surrounds were made for mountain and quad bikes. Technical routes through hilly, forested terrain and wildlife sanctuaries will challenge riders of all abilities.
If it's abseiling, kloofing (canyoning) or rock-climbing you're after, head for the wild mountains of the Magoebaskloof area. Expert guides offer extreme sports in a breathtaking setting - the wild and untamed Mohlapetsi Valley. Caving is growing in popularity here too and instructors will help you discover subterranean excitement.
Extreme kloofing is not for the faint-hearted. Join the river on its downward journey, scramble over large rocks, abseil, climb, hike through forests, bum-slide, rock hop, swim, float down river and be prepared to launch yourself off the edge of waterfalls to pools below. Whatever the obstacle, you'll feel exhilarated by rising to the challenge. And if you simply have to take to the skies, try microlighting above the glorious Limpopo landscape.
Wherever you go in this province adventure opportunities will shadow your every move.
Travel tips & Planning info
Who to contact
Polokwane Tourism Information
Cnr Thabo Mbeki & Church Sts
Polokwane
Tel: +27 (0) 15 290 2010
Fax: +27 (0) 15 290 2009\
Email: tourisminfo@polokwane.gov.za
Web: www.polokwane.org.za
Thaba Metsi Adventures
Magoebaskloof and Haenertsburg
Tel: +27 (0)83 866 1546
Fax: +27 (0)86 656 9023
Email: adventures@thabametsi.com
Web: www.thabametsi.com
How to get here
Polokwane is easily accessible via good national roads such as the N1 and N11. You can also fly into this host city.
Get around
Organised adventure tours are on offer through various operators such as Thaba-Metsi Adventures.
What will it cost
A rough guide to costs supplied by Thaba Metsi Adventures: Quad biking - approx R250 per hour; Abseiling - approx R220 per person; Tubing - approx R300 per person, Magoebaskloof Canopy Tour - approx R430 per person. Prices subject to change.
Length of stay
Spend a week or two exploring the rugged terrain of the Limpopo lowveld.
What to pack
Outdoor gear. Warm clothing for evenings.
Where to stay
There are a number of lodges and camping sites in Limpopo.