Missing video
Sorry, this video could not be found.
Ancient cycads date back to the time of the dinosaur
Modjadji Cycad Reserve
Aerial view - Modjadji Cycad Forest, Limpopo
© South African Tourism
Did you know?
Modjadji village has been ruled by a series of Rain Queens since the 16th century, the only matriarchal tribe in southern Africa.
The Modjadji Cycad Reserve is set in the foothills of blue-green mountains above the village of Modjadji, near Tzaneen. The Modjadji Cycad Reserve is home to the biggest concentration of the rare endemic cycad, Transvenosus encephalartos, in the world. The Modjadji Cycad Reserve is also part of the realm of the legendary Rain Queen.
The 560-hectare Modjadji Cycad Reserve is a unique natural forest that remains unspoiled and very much like it was, in prehistoric times when mammal-like reptiles roamed the area using these plants as their main food source. Some of the cycads here reach heights of 13 metres and bear cones that weigh in at a hefty 34 kilograms, making them the giants of their species. The plants seed between December and February, the best time to view them.
Go a gentle hike through the reserve, which has a series of paths that lead up and down the mountains slopes. You may also spot game such as blue wildebeest, waterbuck, nyala, impala and bushbuck, and some of the 170 bird species recorded here. There is a small museum at the cycad reserve, and a little shop selling refreshments and curios.
You can also take a guided tour of the village of Modjadji, that was settled in the 16th century by the original Rain Queen Modjadji. The legend goes that the Karanga tribe fled here from Zimbabwe, matriarchal tribe whose queen possessed special rain-making powers. It is said that the Rain Queen and her fellow travellers were enchanted by the cycad forests here, and the beautiful Bolobedu mountains, and decided to start a new kingdom.
The newly formed tribe of the Bolobedu named their Rain Queens 'the Modjadji' and they have reigned ever since. Revered for her rain making powers, the Modjadji Rain Queen was said to have struck fear even in the heart of the mighty Zulu warrior, King Shaka.
Travel tips & Planning info
Who to contact
Modjadji Cycad Reserve
Tel: +27(0)82 200 4596
Limpopo Parks and Tourism Board
Tel: + 27(0)15 290 7355
Email: info@golimpopo.com
How to get here
From Tzaneen take the R36 to Modjadjiskloof. Follow the signs to Modjadji village and to the cycad reserve
Around the area
The Kruger National Park is an easy drive from Tzaneen
The Wolkberg Wilderness area is a great spot for swimming, hiking and picnicking
Tours to do
Tree top canopy tour in Magoebaskloof
Cultural tours in Modjadji village
What to pack
Sunscreen, hats, walking shoes and a camera. Insect repellent is also handy although this is not a malaria area.
Where to stay
There are many B&B's, guesthouses, lodges and hotels in and around the nearby town of Tzaneen.
What to eat
Yum Yum restaurant and deli in Tzaneen is an excellent lunch stop, offering contemporary fusion cuisine in a pleasant setting