In the vibrant heart of South Africa’s Limpopo Province, Polokwane emerges as a captivating blend of history and modernity, offering a gateway to the myriad wonders of the north. Just a stone’s throw from Johannesburg and the iconic Kruger National Park, Polokwane is an essential hub for explorers and culture enthusiasts alike. Its year-round splendid weather and rich cultural tapestry are displayed through an array of monuments, museums, and lively cultural sites, painting a vivid picture of its heritage and contemporary zest.
Polokwane is not just an urban retreat but a launchpad to an array of natural wonders. From the thrilling encounters at the Meropa Entertainment World to the serene beauty of the Polokwane Game Reserve and the historic depths of Makapan’s Valley, the city offers a unique blend of experiences. Whether you’re looking to delve into the life of majestic wildlife, enjoy the tranquility of lush botanical gardens, or immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of local history and culture, Polokwane beckons with an array of activities and sights that promise to enchant and enlighten any visitor. Check out our list of 10 Best Places to visit in Polokwane.
1. Meropa Casino & Entertainment World
Picture: Facebook / @Micheala Byliefeldt
First on our list of places to visit in Polokwane is Meropa Casino. Offering a premier gaming and leisure experience just a short drive from Polokwane. This vibrant destination welcomes visitors with the promise of all-day entertainment, ensuring that the thrill of the game is always within reach, as the casino floor remains open daily to cater to night owls and early birds alike.
Meropa Casino isn’t just any casino; it’s a sophisticated escape into a world of excitement and luxury. Equipped with cutting-edge technology, the casino offers a seamless gaming experience, where traditional coin slots are replaced by smart cards, providing a sleek, coinless journey into chance and fortune. With a selection of 12 gaming tables and 324 state-of-the-art slot machines, including the enthralling Dream Machine and Poker Magic, the casino floor is a playground for the adventurous, offering both smoking and non-smoking areas to suit all preferences. Whether you’re drawn to the spin of the American Roulette or the strategy of Blackjack, Meropa Casino delivers an unforgettable experience where every moment is a chance to win big.
Address: 59 Prov Roodepoort St, Ivypark X14, Polokwane
2. Bakone Malapa Open-Air Museum
Picture: Facebook / @Mokgehle Tlou Nel Kganyago
The Bakone Malapa Open-Air Museum is a captivating window into the traditional life and culture of the Northern Sotho people, situated just outside Polokwane. This living museum vividly reconstructs the Bakone lifestyle from 250 years ago, offering visitors an immersive experience through its two homesteads or lapas. Here, you can witness firsthand the ancient arts of fire making, maize grinding, and beer brewing. Artisanal crafts such as pottery, basketry, and beadwork are not only demonstrated but also available for purchase, making the experience both educational and interactive.
More than just a cultural exhibition, the Bakone Malapa Museum is a vibrant narrative brought to life by skilled storytellers and guides. As you wander through the traditional homesteads, you’re transported back in time, gaining insights into the Bakone clan’s history and lifestyle. The museum isn’t just about the past; it’s a celebration of living culture, offering a glimpse into the modern ways of the Northern Sotho family alongside historical insights. With its comprehensive tours and engaging activities, a visit to Bakone Malapa is an enriching journey through the soul of South Africa’s heritage, ensuring every visitor leaves with a deeper understanding and appreciation of this rich cultural tapestry.
Address: R37, Chuenespoort Road, Polokwane, 0700
Read more: 10 of the Best Things to do in Polokwane
3. Magoebaskloof Tubing
Picture: Facebook / @Magoebaskloof Adventures
Embark on an extraordinary journey with Magoebaskloof Adventures, where tubing becomes an exhilarating blend of serenity and adventure. Set amidst the upper reaches of an indigenous forest, this experience transports you through the scenic beauty of the Groot Letaba River valley, with its majestic waterfalls cascading down into the river below. As you glide from platform to platform, the tranquility of the surroundings envelops you. Knowledgeable guides enrich the journey with insights into the local flora and fauna, making each moment an educational delight. With vibrant wildflowers, soaring Kingfishers, and a diverse ecosystem, this adventure is perfect for families, nature enthusiasts, and thrill-seekers alike, promising an unforgettable experience for all ages.
As the journey continues, the gecko-tubing trip offers a unique perspective of the Letaba River gorge’s dramatic landscapes. Starting deep within the gorge, the adventure leads you through pristine waters and over the pulse-racing rapids. Experienced river guides ensure your safety while you embrace the thrill of cliff jumping or the challenge of navigating waterfalls. This adventure isn’t just a journey through nature; it’s an exploration of your own spirit of adventure. Perfectly positioned between Polokwane and Tzaneen, Magoebaskloof Adventures is more than just a pit stop; it’s a destination where unforgettable memories are made, whether you’re on a family vacation, part of a corporate team-building exercise, or simply seeking a day filled with excitement and wonder.
4. Debengeni Falls
Picture: Facebook / @Micheal Johnson
Nestled in the lush Magoebaskloof of the northern Drakensberg Mountain Range, Debengeni Falls presents a picturesque spectacle of nature’s untamed beauty. As the Ramadipha River dramatically cascades 80 meters into a vast, deep pool, the sheer force of nature is on magnificent display. This serene haven, an epitome of the pristine allure found throughout the Limpopo Province, offers more than just a visual feast. It’s a sanctuary where the harmony of nature’s elements and the rich cultural tapestry converge, inviting visitors to immerse themselves in its tranquil yet powerful presence.
Debengeni Falls is not only a feast for the eyes but also a hub for various activities that cater to nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. The area surrounding the falls is a treasure trove of ecological diversity, boasting over 40 species of indigenous trees and a rich birdlife that includes the likes of the grey wagtail and the scaly-throated honeyguide. For those seeking a burst of adrenaline, the challenging 17-kilometer Debengeni Downhill Ride offers mountain bikers an exhilarating journey through rainforests and tea plantations. However, visitors are urged to tread carefully; the rocks at the waterfall’s base are notoriously slippery, emphasizing the need for safety consciousness amidst the enjoyment of Limpopo’s natural wonder. This is a great addition to our list of places to visit in Polokwane, but visitors must always strive to remain safe.
Address: Tzaneen
5. Bouncy Croc Crocodile farm
Picture: Facebook / @Bouncy Croc Crocodile Farm, Naboomspruit
Just a stone’s throw from Polokwane lies the Bouncy Croc Crocodile Farm, a unique destination that blends adventure with family-friendly fun. As you step through the Bouncy Croc entrance, you’re welcomed into a world where you can indulge in delicious meals at the Crocodilian restaurant and browse through an array of souvenirs, from cuddly crocodile toys to exclusive handmade Nile crocodile products. For the daring, there’s even a selection of crocodile meat delicacies. The farm offers a rare opportunity to get up close with some of nature’s most formidable aquatic predators, providing visitors with an unforgettable encounter.
Inside the commercial crocodile farm, the adventure truly begins as you’re given the chance to hold and touch a juvenile Nile crocodile, creating perfect photo opportunities to capture the moment. Additionally, Bouncy Croc is home to some of the world’s most fascinating reptiles, including the formidable Anaconda, the Ball python, and the Jungle Carmen python. With an informative tour guide to answer all your questions and ensure a comfortable experience, even the chance to savor crocodile dishes in the excellent restaurant, Bouncy Croc offers an exciting and educational experience for visitors of all ages.
Address: Marken Road Buffelsdoorns Mookgophong
6. Polokwane Game Reserve
Nestled on the outskirts of Polokwane, the Polokwane Game Reserve stands as one of South Africa’s largest municipal reserves, a haven for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. This sprawling sanctuary is home to 52 species of animals, roaming freely amidst the bushveld and winding paths. Visitors are often thrilled to spot the rare white rhino, majestic sable antelope, and elegant giraffes, alongside nearly 200 species of birds that make this area a vibrant avian paradise. The reserve is not just a wildlife haven but also a testament to the conservation of the Pietersburg Plateau false grassland, offering a diverse array of over 110 types of grasses, 280 floral species, and 68 different trees, making it an ecotourism hotspot.
The Polokwane Game Reserve is more than just a wildlife sanctuary; it’s a gateway to exploring the rich biodiversity and unique ecosystems of the Limpopo region. With its proximity to Johannesburg, it serves as an ideal retreat for city dwellers seeking an escape into nature. The reserve offers a plethora of walking trails, including a challenging 20-kilometer hike with overnight accommodation, allowing visitors to immerse themselves fully in the serene African wilderness. Frequent sightings of white rhinos and a myriad of game species across the vast expanses of open savannah and acacia trees provide an exhilarating experience for all. As the day begins to heat up, the reserve’s northern slope reveals a stunning aloe forest, adding another layer to its natural beauty and making Polokwane Game Reserve a must-visit destination for those keen to explore the great outdoors.
Address: Opposite Pietersburg Civil Aerodrome, Silicon Rd, Polokwane
Read more: Rainforests and waterfalls: Magoebaskloof uncovered
7. Polokwane Art Museum
Source: Facebook / @Polokwane Art Museum
At the heart of Polokwane lies a treasure trove of creativity and cultural heritage: the Polokwane Art Museum. This sanctuary of art houses an impressive collection, particularly rich in pieces from Limpopo’s own Venda, Pedi, and Tsonga artists. Visitors can expect to be greeted by a panorama of over a thousand artworks, each narrating tales of the region’s vibrant folklore and traditions through a variety of mediums including ceramics, paintings, and sculptures.
The museum is not only a custodian of local talent but also a platform for national artists, showcasing an array of works from renowned South African creatives. Its galleries are alive with a dynamic mix of permanent and temporary exhibitions, often featuring thought-provoking installations and photographic prints. One particularly striking exhibit is the transformed artillery; guns from wars past, melted and remolded into poignant art pieces that captivate and challenge viewers. The Polokwane Art Museum stands as a beacon of cultural preservation and artistic expression, inviting all who visit to delve into the depths of South Africa’s rich artistic legacy.
Address: Schoeman St, Polokwane Central, Polokwane
8. Splash Polokwane
Source: Facebook / @ Splash & Jump Zone Polokwane
Splash Polokwane stands as a beacon of entertainment, offering a diverse range of activities for all ages. Within this lively water park, excitement unfolds through a collection of super tubes, pools, and a trampoline park. It’s a destination where families and friends come together for a day filled with fun and relaxation. Scattered throughout the park are braai areas and picnic spots, perfectly set up for those looking to enjoy a meal outdoors in the welcoming embrace of nature.
The park’s immaculate lawns provide an ideal backdrop for visitors to spread out their picnics and enjoy the shade of towering trees. Around every corner, you’ll find thoughtfully placed benches and tables, inviting groups to gather and share in the joyous atmosphere. Central to the park’s charm is the swimming pool, a hub of laughter and splashing, all overseen by vigilant lifeguards. Splash Polokwane isn’t just a place to visit; it’s a community favorite where every visit promises a blend of thrill and tranquility, perfect for creating lasting memories. This is one of the better places to visit in Polokwane for kids.
Address: Plot 22 First Ave, Dalmada AH, 0699
9. Zwakala Brewery in Magoebaskloof
Source: Facebook / @Zwakala Brewery
Last on our list of places to visit in Polokwane, Zwakala Brewery beckons visitors with its African spirit and the inviting promise of ‘come closer.’ Established in 2016 by the community-driven Luca Tooley, this microbrewery embodies local artisanship and the pristine beauty of its surroundings. The brewery’s tasting room offers stunning mountain vistas, a selection of gourmet burgers and tapas, and an array of award-winning beers that capture the essence of the region. It’s a place where good beer merges with great company, making it a perfect retreat for families, friends, and pets alike.
At Zwakala Brewery, the commitment to local elements, like the pure mountain water used for brewing, underscores its dedication to quality and community. Visitors can immerse themselves in the convivial atmosphere, enhanced by outdoor games and a welcoming environment. With national recognition for its Lager and Weekend Special brews, Zwakala doesn’t just serve beer; it serves an experience steeped in local culture and camaraderie. Whether you’re there for a relaxed day out, a special celebration, or just a taste of adventure, Zwakala offers a memorable escape into the world of craft beer set against the backdrop of Limpopo’s natural splendor.
Address: Cheerio Road, Magoebaskloof, 0730
10. Polokwane Snake & Reptile Park
Polokwane Snake & Reptile Park is a unique enclave of biodiversity amidst the urban landscape of Polokwane, known for its extensive collection of over 280 bird species. This park offers a vivid display of both indigenous and exotic birds, alongside a fascinating variety of snakes, lizards, crocodiles, and water birds housed in meticulously maintained aquariums and pools. It’s a place where visitors of all ages can immerse themselves in the wonders of the natural world, learning about different species while enjoying the tranquil surroundings.
The park’s design emphasizes harmony with nature, featuring discreet viewing hides that allow for intimate wildlife encounters without intrusion. Scenic picnic areas are scattered throughout, providing spaces for families to gather and enjoy the calm atmosphere. At Polokwane Snake & Reptile Park, every visit is an opportunity to explore and appreciate the diversity of life, making it a cherished destination for both locals and tourists seeking a deeper connection with nature’s marvels.
Address: 118 Lawton Rd, Nirvana X1, Polokwane
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Also Read: 10 of the Best Things to do in Polokwane
