Northern Kruger & Venda Culture
The Northern Kruger National Park is complemented by the diverse terrain of this region and includes mopane woodlands, fever tree forests, acacia thickets and some of the largest and oldest baobab tree.
A unique advantage of this area and location is that it is not accessible by the general Kruger public.
The region's rich historical and cultural heritage can be explored by guided visits to Crooks Corner and the Thulamela archaeological site overlooking the Luvuvhu River. Artefacts dating from 1460 to 1640 have been found tying them to the last phase of the Zimbabwe culture. In the late 19th century, the historic Ivory Route passed alongside the Luvuvhu River to Crooks corner at the confluence of the Limpopo and Luvuvhu rivers and the border of Mozambique, Zimbabwe and South Africa. A visit to Thulamela is a half day excursion.
Day 1: Limpopo
Depart Johannesburg or Pretoria travelling north for the magnificent Magoebaskloof area, 13 km from the little town of Haenertsburg. This area is categorised by awesome views of surrounding mountains, rivers, waterfalls and the vast reaches of the beautiful Ebenezer Dam.
Accommodation: Magoebaskloof Hotel
Set in the dramatically beautiful Magoebaskloof area of Limpopo, the hotel offers guests a chance to enjoy an idyllic and relaxing break in the country. Friendly personal service and comfortable accommodation are a hallmark of the hotel. (approximate driving time 4 hrs)
Day 2: Kruger National Park
After an early breakfast you will depart driving through the cultural area of the Pede people towards the Punda Maria gate of the Kruger National Park. After entering the Kruger Park you will drive north for the most Northern section of the Kruger National Park. (approximate driving time is 6 hrs, this includes the slow drive through the Park).
Accommodation: The Outposts Game Lodge
The Outpost lies in a vast wilderness area in the northernmost part of Kruger National Park. This region, called the Makuleke Region, is bordered to the north by the Limpopo River and Zimbabwe and to the east by Crooks Corner and Mozambique. Italian born architect Enrico Daffonchio designed The Outpost. Using simple, clean lines and combining elements of steel, concrete and open space, the unashamedly contemporary design of The Outpost emphasises its beautiful surrounds but blends and preserves the wilderness that is its home.
Day 3 & 4
Day program includes early morning game drive, breakfast, lunch, afternoon tea, game drive and dinner.
Day 5 & 6: Waterberg
After an Early breakfast depart for The Soutpansberg mountains near Louis Trichardt in the Limpopo Province (approximate driving time is 3 ½ hrs)
Accommodation: Leshiba Wildernesss
Leshiba Wilderness lies in a hidden valley on top of the Soutpansberg mountains in Limpopo Province, one of the country’s most unique bio-diverse environments. Transcending expectations, this private reserve is something special, family-run, offering a uniquely African experience with luxury touches, warm hospitality and rich memories. Leshiba offers a unique, authentic and holistic African experience.
Climb above clouds and walk with rhino in a diverse mountaintop environment. Stay at the Venda Village Lodge, unlike anything else in Africa; a hand sculpted, luxurious, artistic wonderland. All this encapsulating sustainable and responsible tourism.
Day 7: Gauteng
After an early morning breakfast depart for Johannesburg for your onward journey. (Driving time about 5 hours). You will be dropped at the airport for your flight out.