POLOKWANE – You do not need the ocean or an overseas ticket to enjoy a memorable holiday.

Limpopo offers a wide range of local attractions that are perfect for day trips or weekend getaways.

Grab your sunglasses, pack your sunscreen and join us as we explore some of the province’s must-visit spots.

Polokwane Museum (The Irish House)

Located across from the Polokwane Civic Centre and the Hugh Exton Photographic Museum, this historic building dates back to the early 1900s.

The museum showcases artefacts from the Iron and Stone Ages and includes popular exhibits that explore the origins and cultures of Limpopo’s people.

Polokwane Game Reserve

There is no need to travel far for a safari experience. At the Polokwane Game Reserve, visitors can hike, cycle or drive through the reserve while keeping an eye out for wildlife.

Braai facilities and the scenic Pietersburg Plateau make it ideal for outdoor relaxation.

Warmbaths (Bela-Bela)

Bela-Bela offers an array of family-friendly activities, including cable water-skiing, river rides, speed slides and a wave pool.

Visitors can also enjoy spa treatments, jacuzzis, game drives and heated swimming pools.

Additional attractions include mini golf, squash and tennis courts, children’s play areas, splash zones, super tubes and more.

Eersteling Monument

Situated about 18km from Polokwane on the road to Mokopane, Eersteling marks the site of South Africa’s first commercial gold mining operations. The original chimney was erected in 1873, and the site was declared a National Monument in 1938. It remains an important historical landmark and a worthwhile visit.

The Sagole Baobab Tree

Known as a natural symbol of Limpopo, the Sagole Baobab in Thohoyandou is the largest baobab in South Africa — and the world. Carbon-dated at around 1 200 years old, the tree stands 22m high with a circumference of 33m. Its unique shape has contributed to the legend of the “upside-down tree”.

Zanna Bird and Reptile Park

Pack a picnic basket and spend the day among birds, snakes, lions and a variety of reptiles at this Polokwane-based park.

Wildthingz at Meropa Casino

Cool off in the pool, learn about birds and enjoy shaded areas perfect for relaxation. It is an ideal venue for families and groups of friends.

Mokopane Biodiversity Conservation Centre

About 40 minutes from Polokwane, this 1 300ha centre focuses on education, conservation and research. It forms part of the National Zoological Garden and hosts breeding enclosures, a game reserve and camps dedicated to the protection of species such as the black rhino, tsessebe, lemur and roan antelope.

Magoebaskloof

Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy zip-lining through indigenous forests, canopy tours and mountain biking in this scenic region.

Madi a Thavha Mountain Lodge (Louis Trichardt)

Visitors can experience quad biking, paintball, hiking and forest zip-lining at this mountain retreat.

Tzaneen and Magoebaskloof Farms

These regions are known for mango, avocado and macadamia farms, as well as tea plantations.

The Wegraakbosch Dairy Farm offers tours and cheese tastings.

Bakone Malapa Open-Air Museum

This cultural site offers insights into Northern Sotho traditions and allows visitors to participate in craft-making and storytelling.

Ribola Art Route (Vhembe)

Meet local artists including Mashamba Pottery, Pilato Scrap Artists, Manyike Woodcraft and Twananani Textiles along this celebrated art route.

Venda cultural experience

Explore sacred sites such as Lake Fundudzi and the Thate Vondo Forest.

Guided tours explain Venda beliefs, myths and traditions.

Tzaneen and Ebenezer Dams

These dams are ideal for hot summer days and offer fishing, picnics and boat cruises.

Nandoni Dam (Thohoyandou)

Popular for scenic boat cruises, Nandoni Dam remains one of Limpopo’s favourite leisure destinations.