Every day offers opportunities to explore the rich mosaic of cultures, as well as the artistic traditions and archaeological treasures of the Limpopo Province. This province is home to the dynasty of the Rain Queens, internationally renowned African artists and archaeological World Heritage Sites. Local guides & communities tell stories in diverse voices, and ensure local benefit.
Your Itinerary
Days 1-2: Arrive in Johannesburg. We meet you at the airport and assist you to take reception of your hired car, and to find your way to a comfortable guesthouse. Spend two days recovering from the flight and exploring Johannesburg, a melting pot of cultures from all over Africa and the world.
On a guided tour, learn about the city’s dramatic history, its central role in the struggle against apartheid, and the vibrant new urban culture found on its streets. We visit key heritage sites and meet locals with stories to tell. Optional theatre evening. Visit the Cradle of Humankind World Heritage Site where 40% of all fossil records of our hominid past have been excavated.
Day 3: Depart Johannesburg and head north towards the Limpopo River. Stop at Makapan’s Valley, and extension of the Cradle of Humankind World Heritage Site, to learn about it’s rich fossil record of human existence. Also hear the story of conflict between the AmaNdebele and Boers, and the siege of Chief Mokopane and his people in one of the caves.
After another scenic stop for lunch, proceed to Shiluvari Lakeside Lodge at the heart of the Venda/Shangaan/Tsonga/ Northern Sotho cultural mosaic. Enjoy a sunset cruise on Lake Albasini.Shiluvari overlooks the lake, and is beautifully decorated in warm, natural tones and using the works of local artists and crafters.
Day 4: Using Shiluvari as a base, travel with a local guide to visit world-renowned artists whose work in clay and wood is influenced by the rich mythology and spirituality of their cultures. Meet artists, crafters and other community members and experience the open kindness and warmth of the people of Limpopo Province. End the day hearing stories, watching traditional dance and enjoying local cuisine at a community-based Tsonga cultural village.
Day 5: Today you further explore the area, this time with a focus on significant Venda cultural and spiritual sites.Visit the Dzata Ruins, Thate Vhonde sacred forest, and possibly even a Venda healing ceremony. Or alternatively spend the day hiking and bird watching.
Day 6: Travel into the Kruger Park to The Outpost, an award-winning, uniquely designed luxury lodge in the far north of the Park. Each living Space can be opened on three sides to the elements and an entirely private view. The land here belongs to the Makuleke community who successfully reclaimed it, and The Outpost employs community members, provides an income stream to the community, and will one day be handed over to the Makuleke. Here in the northern Kruger Park wildlife abounds, and it is possible to see rare species such as the Tsessebe and Nyala on game drives & walks.
Day 7: After an early game drive/walk and relaxed breakfast, local guides take you on a guided tour to the Thulamela archaeological site, linked to the Great Zimbabwe culture. Golden jewelry and trade goods found here indicate that the city was part of an international trade route. Nearby Crooks Corner, at the confluence of the Limpopo and Levhuvhu rivers, was once part of the Ivory route. Optional: visit the Makuleke community. Enjoy an evening game drive or simply relax as you watch night transforming the landscape from your private, elevated deck.
Day 8: Depart from The Outpost and drive to The Coach House. Here you exchange the African Bushveld for the lush forests and mountains of the Magoebaskloof, called after Chief Makgoba. Enjoy the beautiful views, comfortable accommodation and excellent spa facilities. Stroll through the grounds keeping an eye open for local bird species.
Day 9: Visit the royal village of the Modjadji dynasty and hear tales of the Rain Queen. Visit the Cycad Forest and take an optional hike. Optional: play a game of gold on a unique course close to nature, do a cultural tour of the local village, or simply unwind.
Day 10: You are now headed back towards Johannesburg, but stop for a final night at Zebra Country Lodge. Here you can visit a Ndebele village where a female chief and other women have decorated their homes in the distinctive colorful and geometric style of the AmaNdebele. Spend the evening star gazing and listening to African Star Lore.
Day 11: A 1 and a half hour drive returns you to Johannesburg International Airport, from where you depart for home.
Notes:
Airfare is not included in the tour price.
Cost: R17 000 per person excluding flights to South Africa
Includes:
- accommodation,
- activities,
- 2 meals a day,
- vehicle hire.
Also see tour packages in:
Africa
South Africa
Archeology/History
Cultural Journey
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