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Visit a vibrant Ndebele community where traditions live on.
Mabhoko Cultural Village, North West
A view of the Mabhoko Cultural Village.
© Voluntours
Did you know?
Ndebele women use chicken feathers and their fingers to paint their homesteads.
Mabhoko Cultural Village, or ‘Mapoch’ as it’s also known, introduces travellers to a traditional Ndebele lifestyle in a dedicated facility located just outside Klipgat in the North West province.
Here you’ll find women of the community going about the familiar business of cultural craftwork – including their famous geometric house painting and exquisite beadwork.
Mural painting has been passed down from mother to daughter for generations. Each artist reflects her own style, meaning and interpretation in her mural, so be sure to ask about designs that pique your interest. These distinctive homes make a wonderful photography subjects
Mabhoko Cultural Village is unique in that its members are make a living by simply perpetuating their centuries-old way of life and sharing it with visitors. By spending time with the villagers and purchasing their wares, you’ll be making a valuable contribution to a previously impoverished community.
Take time to meet members of the Msiza family (descendants of the chief), the Buda family (the chief’s sons-in-law) and the Skosanas, all of whom will delight in sharing their history and folklore. All villagers are descendents of the Nguni, who split from the Zulu to settle in the area surrounding present-day Pretoria.
Community members involved in the design and manufacture of cultural Ndebele items such as necklaces, bracelets, bags, shoes and plates meet daily in the village to create and display their works.
To encourage tourists to appreciate the village beyond the craft and culture, Mabhoko also offers a conference centre, information centre, restaurant and B&B.
Travel tips & Planning info
Who to contact
Mapoch (Mabhoko) Ndebele Village
Chris Buda
Cell: +27 (0) 76 140 9855
Cell: +27 (0) 73 803 2184 (Bricks Buda)
For Bicycle Project
Pastor Peter Mabasa
+27 (0) 72 510 8564
How to get here
The village lies 40km north-west of Pretoria (less than an hour's drive) in the Klipgat area of North West province.
Around the area
The Pilanesberg National Park and Madikwe Game Reserve, both in the North West province and to the north of Mabhoko, are excellent reserves to see the Big 5.
There is also lots to see in and around Pretoria (which is in Gauteng province). See the listed Tshwane Tourism and Gauteng Tourism websites.
Tours to do
The Mabhoko villagers have many activities for you to enjoy. Enjoy a bicycle tour or learn how to bead with the gogos (elder women).
Get around
It’s best to go to the village accompanied by a local guide.
What will it cost
Prices vary according to the activities you choose. Entrance is approx R35 and a guided walk is approx R85.
Length of stay
Stay overnight to enjoy the village to its full potential.
Where to stay
Perpetuate the experience by spending a night enjoying village accommodation.
What to eat
An overnight stay includes a traditional meal.
Best buys
Local Ndebele-made leather work, arts and crafts.