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Home of game and gambling
North West
Game viewing in the North West
© South African Tourism
Did you know?
The largest wildlife translocation in the world - Operation Phoenix - has seen 8 000 animals released into the Madikwe Game Reserve.
For the most part, South Africa's North West province is a vast grassland dotted with trees and views that stretch to distant horizons. It contains 2 of the country's largest game reserves, the world's largest playground and a World Heritage Site.
The Magaliesberg mountain range occupies the province's north-east corner, while the mighty Vaal River creates a natural boundary to the south.
It was here in 1924 that the skull of an early hominid was unearthed by Professor Raymond Dart at the Taung Heri tage Site, and it was in the North West province that a colossal meteorite impacted with the Earth to form the Vredefort Dome – today a World Heritage Site.
North West's capital, Mafikeng, is most famous for the 1899 Siege of Mafikeng during the Anglo-Boer War, and the founding of the Boy Scout movement. A visit to the Mafikeng Museum, Kanon Kopje and the Barolong Boora Tshidi Kgotla will help fit the historical puzzle pieces in place.
Its inland location and extensive grasslands provide the perfect setting for a number of malaria-free wildlife reserves. These include Madikwe, South Africa's fourth-largest game reserve, and the Pilanesberg National Park, both home to the Big 5 and many more southern African mammals and birds.
Magaliesberg, Hartbeespoort and Pilanesberg are popular weekend getaway spots where paragliding, windsurfing, water skiing and jet skiing attract thrill-seekers. Then there's Wondergat, an extensive underwater cave network where many divers have honed their skills.
Standing proudly incongruent to this rustic scene is Sun City, the world's largest playground, and The Lost City, an African-inspired architectural masterpiece. From the swells at the Valley of the Waves and the greens of the exceptional golf course to the massive casino and entertainment complex, this is an awe-inspiring place in which to wile away the hours.
Travel tips & Planning info
Who to contact
North-West Tourism Authority
Tel: + 27 (0) 18 397 1500
Fax: + 27 (0) 18 397 1660
Email: info@tourismnorthwest.co.za
Madikwe Game Reserve
Tel: + 27 (0) 18 350 9931/2
Fax: +27 (0) 18 350 9933
Email: madikweadmin@telkomsa.net
Pilanesberg National Park
Tel: + 27 (0) 14 555 1600
Fax: +27 (0) 14 555 5525
Email: pilanesberg@nwptb.co.za
How to get here
The North West province has air and rail links with all major South African cities. It is also easy to drive there from neighbouring provinces.
Around the area
Vredefort Dome World Heritage Site; Taung Heritage Site; Wondergat; Magaliesberg; Hartbeespoort Dam; Pilanesberg National Park; Madikwe Game Reserve; The Lost City; Sun City
Get around
The road network is extensive and well-maintained, so driving yourself around is easy. Alternatively, opt for a guided tour by bus or mini-van.
Length of stay
Anything from a weekend to 2 weeks and more, depending on how much you wish to explore.
What to pack
Always pack plenty of sunblock and a hat. Good walking shoes or hiking boots are also a must for those who prefer to explore on foot.