Limpopo is an exotic province in South Africa, boasting a wealth of nature, wildlife attractions and rich history. As a result, many travellers flock to the region to discover the country’s Big 5, among other exciting animals. Limpopo boasts a history that goes back to the Iron Age. Explore the ruins of ancient kingdoms. Get into touch with nature at various nature reserves. There are so many in Limpopo that you might need to book several holidays to explore them all. All this hints at the wealth of activity that awaits in Limpopo.
Considering the vastness of the Kruger National Park, do you have an idea where to start? It might take time to plan where to go first and then progress from there. With so much to discover, it will take days to get the complete picture of the province. Therefore, planning your travel itinerary before you go would be wise. Then, why not go through this guide on the top things to do in Limpopo?
Before getting into it, don’t you want to check out the best restaurants in Polokwane?
Planning to visit Limpopo? Check out these pages:
Top 8 Things to Do in Limpopo
1. Moholoholo Animal Rehabilitation Centre
We start with this animal rehabilitation centre at the base of the famous north-eastern Lowveld Drakensberg mountain range. The Moholoholo Animal Rehabilitation Centre provides nature lovers with a unique experience. As a result, you can indulge in a relaxing time as you meet many endangered animals. Furthermore, the centre offers accommodation, game drives and bush walks.
Opening times: 2 – 2.5 hour tours at 9.30 am and 3 pm
Cost: Visit the centre’s website for detailed information
Contact: 015 795 5236
Address: Moholoholo Campsite 333 Sabie Street, Limpopo
Perhaps you’re looking for a different place to stay. Check out this accommodation near the Drakensberg.
2. Kruger National Park
Next up on this list of the top 20 things to do in Limpopo is the well-known Kruger National Park. It’s clear why this park is well-liked, given that it receives almost a million visitors each year. Everyone will find something to enjoy in the garden, from cosy campgrounds and resorts to secluded backcountry camping. Other activities include wilderness trails, 4×4 trails, mountain biking trails and more.
Opening times: Entrance and camp gates open between 4.30 am and 6 am and close between 5.30 pm and 6 pm, depending on the month of the year.
Cost: South African adults (with ID) pay R115, SADC Nationals (with passport) pay R230, International Visitors pay R460, and children spend half.
Contact: 013 735 4000
Address: Kruger National Park has ten gates. Get directions.
Do you prefer to stay somewhere else? Take a look at accommodation nearby Kruger National Park.
3. Debengeni Falls
Up for a truly natural Limpopo experience? Visit Debengeni falls. Located in the northern section of the Drakensburg, fresh water falls into the Ramadipha river at a never-ending pace. Although Debengeni falls is unquestionably stunning, beware of the slippery slippery rocks and the waterfall drop-off. Enjoy a refreshing picnic or take a pleasant hike through the demarcated trail.
Opening times: Monday – Sunday, 8 am – 5 pm
Cost: R30 per person
Contact: 015 276 4880
Address: Tzaneen, On R71 near Selati De Hoek Sawmill, Limpopo. Get directions.
4. Hippo Jessica
Number 4 on our guide to the top things to do in Limpopo is purely for animal lovers. Indeed, a visit to this nature reserve will tell you about an incredible story of a hippopotamus rescued as a baby. Furthermore, Hippo Jessica offers you a precious opportunity to interact with Jessica. For instance, an interesting fact about Jessica is that she loves rooibos tea!
Opening times: Monday – Saturday, 9 am – 11 am, and Sunday, 9 am – 11 am
Cost: Contact the owners at 015 817 1865
Address: Essex Road (at the bridge over Blyde River, look out for the sign), Hoedspruit, Limpopo
ALSO READ | 20 Things to do in Hoedspruit
5. Hoedspruit Endangered Species Centre
The Hoedspruit Endangered Species Centre is a haven for rare, vulnerable, or endangered animals, focusing on cheetahs and rhinos. At the same time, the centre is a non-profit organisation that relies on donations from visitors and sponsors. Furthermore, this venue offers guided tours and game drives. As a result, you can get up close with the animals and learn about the conservation efforts made by this centre.
Opening times: Tours are daily at 9 am and 11 am (the duration is 2 hours, by appointment only), Cheetah focused tours occur between 7.30 am – 8 am only on Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday, and Sundays.
Cost: Adults pay R500, Pensioners R350, Children between the ages of 6-12 R250 and Children under 6 enter for free.
Contact: 015 795 5203
Address: Hoedspruit Endangered Species Centre, R40, Hoedspruit, Limpopo
6. Grietjie Private Nature Reserve
Now, we come to the 5th entry in this list of the top things to do in Limpopo. First, to clarify, the Grietjie Private Nature Reserve is a beautiful alternative for those looking for an authentic African safari experience or wildlife photographers looking for award-winning shots of breathtaking scenery. In addition, the reserve forms part of the greater Balule Nature Reserve, which, in turn, is part of the famous Kruger National Park.
Opening times: Contact Grietjie Private Nature Reserve for specified lodge times.
Cost: Entry comes with booking accommodation with lodges in the reserve. Prices vary.
Contact: 073 306 3508
Address: Grietjie Private Nature Reserve, R40, Phalaborwa, Limpopo
7. Bakone Malapa Open-Air Museum
Nothing displays the richness of history like a live museum. The Bakone Malapa Open-Air Museum is a living testament of the Bakone tribe, a sect group within the northern Sotho tribe. During this fascinating experience, you will learn how to make traditional beer, grind maize, and make a fire. Although the tour guide does not charge for his services, any donation would be appreciated by tour guests.
Opening times: Monday – Friday, 8 am – 3.30 pm; Saturday, Sunday and public holiday tours must be arranged via appointment.
Cost: R18 Per adult, R12 Per child
Address: R37, Chuenespoort Road, Polokwane
8. Adventures with Elephants
Following gorgeous photography chances, Number 8 on this list of things to do in Limpopo is all about unforgettable and educational tours with elephants. Discover more about elephants and witness their intelligence, compassion, and joy in interacting with humans. Elephant handlers who are friendly, experienced, and qualified share their extensive knowledge and passion for their charges. Choose from Elephant Swims, Elephant Interactions, Elephant-back Safaris, Starlight Safaris, or tailor-made activities such as weddings, teambuilding, corporate functions, and filming.
Opening times: Monday – Sunday (Closed on Thursdays), 8 am – 5 pm
Cost: Prices range from R2500 – R7500 for adults. Exclusive sessions and prices are available here.
Contact: 014 734 7730
Address: Adventures With Elephant, D1000 Mabula District 0480, Bela-Bela, Limpopo
More Great Things to Do in Limpopo
While we may have covered the most popular activities in the country’s northernmost province, Limpopo offers even more. The wealth of nature reserves and wildlife centres, and parks continues. But, on the other hand, there’s more if you’re looking for something different. Read on to find out.
9. Echo Caves
Situated near Ohrigstad is Echo Caves, the next item on our list of things to do in Limpopo. It opened as a tourist attraction in 1959. At present, the caves make up a National Monument. The Echo Caves are made of Precambrian dolomite rock from around 3800 million years ago. Besides the guided tours, the caves offer an on-site curio shop, restaurant, and accommodation.
Opening times: Tours are from 8.30 am to 4.30 pm
Cost: Adults – R80, Pensioners – R60, Children 13-18 – R50, Children 5-12 – R30, and Children under 5 – Free
Contact: 013 238 0015
Address: Echo Caves, Ohrigstad, Limpopo
10. Mystic Monkeys and Feathers Wildlife Park
Bring the family to see some of the most beautiful animals on the planet. For example, the wildlife park has one of Africa’s most prominent primate collections and various bird species and fierce beasts such as white lions, Bengal tigers, and cheetahs. In addition to this, enjoy guided tours too, which take 2-3 hours to complete.
Opening times: Daily (including public and school holidays) from 9 am to 4 pm
Contact: 079 875 3439
Cost: Adults pay R150, and Children (Grades 0-12, including school trips) pay R50. Teachers pay R80, and Pensioners pay R100. International adults pay $20 (USD), and children pay $15 (USD).
Address: Farm Buffelsdrift, Bela Bela, Limpopo
11. Ndlovumzi Nature Reserve
Head to Ndlovumzi Nature Reserve to find the next feature on this list of things to do in Limpopo. For example, the reserve is home to many plains game species and many bird species! For instance, look out for zebras, giraffes, nyalas, African hawk eagles, Wahlberg’s eagles, and more. Also, lodging is available inside and nearby. Because of this, you can look forward to spectacular sights all around the reserve.
Opening times: Monday – Friday, 9 am – 5 pm
Cost: Contact the Ndlovumzi Nature Reserve for prices
Contact: 078 488 4397
Address: Ndlovumzi Nature Reserve, R527, Hoedspruit, Limpopo
12. Tzaneen Dam Wall
Our 12th entry offers stunning sights and is a hotspot for fishermen. A scenic nature reserve surrounds the dam. Fishing enthusiasts describe Tzaneen Dam as “the best place in Africa for carp fishing.” It is also well stocked with Florida strain largemouth bass, and you can expect to catch one weighing three to four kilogrammes. On occasion, fishermen also catch smallmouth bass. However, not just fishermen enjoy this location. Watersport lovers and birdwatchers also flock to the Tzaneen Dam Wall.
Opening times: Daily from 6 am to 6 pm
Cost: R20 per car, R10 per adult, and R5 for pensioners and children.
Contact: 083 549 8141
Address: Groot Letaba River, near Tzaneen, Limpopo
13. Hoedspruit Reptile Centre
Discover the dedication of the Hoedspruit Reptile team, who do their best to conserve and relocate endangered reptiles. The next highlight on our list of things to do in Limpopo is the Hoedspruit Reptile Centre. To clarify, the centre does this through research and educational tours. For example, explore a variety of exhibits featuring many reptile and amphibian species. On the other hand, if you want something different, witness snake demonstrations.
Opening times: Daily (including public holidays), 8 am – 5 pm
Cost: Adults (13 and older) pay R115, Children between 4 and 12 pay R60 and those under 4 enter free of charge.
Contact: 015 795 5203
Address: R527, Blyderus, Hoedspruit, Limpopo
14. Nylsvley Nature Reserve
Including over 400 species, Nylsvley Nature Reserve is one of the best birding spots in Southern Africa. In addition, the reserve has 77 mammal species, such as a very successful Roan antelope breeding herd. Equally important, there are plenty of frogs as well as numerous insects during the summer months.
Opening times: September to April, 6 am – 6 pm, and May to August, 6.30 am – 5.30 pm
Contact: 015 293 3612
Cost: Adults pay R50, and Children and Pensioners pay R30. Daily bicycle hires are R120. Campsites are R50 per person per night.
Address: Get directions to Nylsvley Nature Reserve, Limpopo
15. Splash & Jump Zone Polokwane
We’re getting close to the end of this list of things to do in Limpopo. Splash Water Park is a fabulous family attraction located in Polokwane. The water park has multiple super tubes as well as a trampoline park and a pool to keep the little ones entertained. Also, enjoy access to picnic areas around the water park. After a great day of splashing around, feel free to visit any of the great restaurants in Polokwane.
Opening times: Daily from 9 am to 6 pm
Cost: Vistors above 13 years pay R100, Children from 3-12 years pay R80, and Pensioners pay R60.
Contact: 065 872 0176
Address: Plot 22, First Avenue, Dalmada AH, Polokwane, Limpopo
16. Agatha Forest Reserve
Following that, we come back to nature reserves! With this in mind, we move on to the Agatha Forest Reserve. This exquisite reserve, near Tzaneen, is situated in the mountains above the Letsitele Valley and offers hikes and walks, mountain bike trails, mountain waterfalls and streams, birding, as well as accommodation surrounded by leafy indigenous forest.
Opening times: Daylight hours
Cost: Free
Address: 7 Kiepersol Street, Aqua Park, Tzaneen, Limpopo
17. Polokwane Snake & Reptile Park
Finally, we come to the last snake and reptile park on our guide to things to do in Limpopo. The Polokwane Snake & Reptile Park is one of South Africa’s largest reserves. To demonstrate, there are more than 280 species of fascinating and indigenous birds, snake and lizard aquariums, as well as dark pools filled with crocodiles and water birds. A few creative viewing hiding spots and appealing picnic venues make this a relaxing destination for the entire family.
Opening times: Friday – Saturday 8 am – 5.30 pm; Sunday – Wednesday, 8 am – 5 pm
Cost: R50 per person over 12 years old and R30 for persons under 12 years old
Contact: 015 230 0023
Address: 18 Lawton Rd, Nirvana X1, Polokwane, Limpopo
18. Marakele Animal Sanctuary
Prepare for a day of fun and excitement with our amazing animals! Marakele Animal Sanctuary has amazing animal viewings waiting for you, whether you want to monkey around or fly high with the birds. They are committed to connecting people with nature in the Thabazimbi area by providing a fun, safe, and educational wildlife experience. Come by for an unforgettable day.
Opening times: Wednesday, 7 am – 4 pm, Thursday – Friday, 8 am to 4 pm, and Saturday – Sunday, 8 am – 3 pm
Cost: R 100 per adult and R50 per pensioner and child (ages 4-14). Babies 3 years and under may enter for free.
Contact: 071 597 7752
Address: Kwaggasvlakte portion 51, Thabazimbi, Limpopo
19. Polokwane Art Museum
Now for the penultimate entry on this list of things to do in Limpopo. The Polokwane Art Museum houses more than 1000 works of art, including a large collection of Venda, Pedi, and Tsonga paintings and sculptures, many of which explore the area’s rich mythology. Additionally, you can also visit Polokwane’s downtown sculpture park, South Africa’s only one of its kind. The Polokwane Art Museum includes a significant collection of South African art, with a particular emphasis on work from Limpopo.
Opening times: Please contact the museum
Cost: Call 015 290 2578 for information
Address: Schoeman Street, Polokwane Central, Polokwane, Limpopo
20. AfriCamps Magoebaskloof
Looking for an upscale camping experience? Look no further than AfriCamps Magoebaskloof. Overlooking the breathtaking Magoebaskloof landscape, this lush, scenic camp space equipped with 10 fully-stocked glamping tents are sure to keep you occupied throughout your stay. The evergreen camp garden, crab apple trees, and Pin Oaks are but a few of the vast natural beauty that beckons. Enjoy this mesmerising camping site regardless of your need for adventure or choice to relax and stay in.
Opening times: Monday – Friday, 8.30 am – 4.30 pm, Closed on Saturday – Sunday
Cost: Prices start at R1440 and per couple, and can go up to R2440 per couple. Add-ons like self-catering meal packages will add more to the cost of your stay.
Contact: 021 300 5694
Address: Cheerio Road L4.2 Magoebaskloof, Haenertsburg, Limpopo
Frequently Asked Questions about Limpopo
What is Limpopo known for?
Limpopo is renowned for having amazing biodiversity. South Africa’s incredible wildlife is on display at a number of smaller, occasionally private game parks dotted throughout the province, not just in Kruger National Park.
What is Limpopo called now?
Limpopo is South Africa’s northernmost province. The Limpopo River, which forms the province’s western and northern borders, inspired its name. Polokwane is the province’s capital and largest city, while Lebowakgomo is home to the provincial legislature.
