Have you ever thought about going on a road trip? I recently had the opportunity to take a journey through the Waterberg, and let me tell you, it was a truly unforgettable experience. In this article, I want to share with you the reasons why I believe a road trip through the Waterberg is something that everyone should consider.
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The Beauty of Nature
One of the key reasons for taking a road trip through the Waterberg is the stunning natural beauty that you will encounter along the way. From the moment you set off, you’ll be surrounded by breathtaking landscapes, with rolling hills, lush greenery, and an abundance of wildlife. It’s a place that truly showcases the wonders of our natural world.
Unplugging and Connecting
In today’s fast-paced world, it’s easy to become overwhelmed and disconnected. A road trip through the Waterberg provides the perfect opportunity to unplug from the daily grind and reconnect with yourself, your loved ones, and nature. Whether you’re hiking through the wilderness, sitting by a campfire, or simply enjoying the peacefulness of the surroundings, you’ll find that the time spent in the Waterberg is invaluable for recharging and recentering.
Exploring the Unknown
When someone mentions a road trip, what comes to mind? Adventure, discovery, and the thrill of the unknown. That’s exactly what you can expect when you embark on a journey through the Waterberg. You’ll have the opportunity to explore hidden gems, stumble upon hidden viewpoints, and witness nature in its purest form. It’s a chance to venture off the beaten path and experience something truly extraordinary.
Finding Inner Peace
If you’re looking for a place that can bring you a sense of inner peace, look no further than the Waterberg. The tranquility that envelops this region is truly unmatched. From the stillness of the morning mist to the calming sounds of chirping birds, every moment spent in the Waterberg is an invitation to find solace and serenity. It’s an oasis of calm in a frenzied world.
Creating Lasting Memories
Finally, a road trip through the Waterberg offers the opportunity to create memories that will last a lifetime. Whether it’s watching a sunset over the horizon, marveling at the vastness of the starry night sky, or sharing a laughter-filled evening around a campfire, these are the moments that will stay with you forever. It’s a chance to disconnect from the daily routine and immerse yourself in the present, creating memories that you’ll cherish for years to come.
So, if you’re looking for an adventure that combines the beauty of nature, the opportunity for self-reflection, and the chance to create lifelong memories, then a road trip through the Waterberg is the perfect choice for you. Pack your bags, hit the road, and get ready for an experience that will leave you in awe. The wonders of the Waterberg await you.
Hey there, I’m Lindokuhle Nkosi, and I want to share with you an exciting adventure I had exploring the beautiful Waterberg area in Limpopo. I took a unique path that not many people know about, and along the way, I captured some amazing photographs. Join me as I recount my journey with the help of Teagan Cunniffe and Thanda Kunene’s stunning images.
The sight of sunflowers leaning towards the sunlight on the R516 road to Bela Bela is a captivating image. It reminds me of the countless quotes and musings about the road less traveled, which have inspired people for centuries. These quotes speak of a road that stretches endlessly, surrounded by a landscape that allows one’s imagination to run wild. But what were these travelers really looking for? What did they hope to discover along this road?
The connection between restlessness and the road is undeniable. It’s as if they are bound together, forever intertwined. It was with this same sense of curiosity and restlessness that we embarked on a journey along the lesser-known back roads to the Waterberg district in Limpopo.
Did you know that Hartbeespoort is less than a 30-minute drive from Fourways? It’s a beautiful place built around an arch-type dam where the wealthy from Johannesburg go to have fun. The mountains surrounding the dam are dotted with lodges, resorts, and holiday homes, creating a picturesque scene. But let me tell you, finding a quiet spot for brunch on the water’s edge is not as easy as it sounds.
I remember driving around for almost an hour, searching for that perfect spot. We wanted somewhere peaceful and by the water, but it seemed like everything was private property or belonged to big homes and companies. Just when we were starting to lose hope, a lady in a white 4×4 approached us. She had a distinct accent, reminiscent of Eastern Europe, and she seemed to know the area well.
“On the water’s edge, you say?” she asked, a hint of disbelief in her voice. “Well, that used to be possible, but not anymore. Nowadays, it’s all private property and estates. However, I know a place you might like. It’s just over there.”
She pointed us in the direction of a small, L-shaped building. Curious, we decided to give it a try. To our delight, we stumbled upon BisiBean Coffee Roasting Co., a charming coffee shop and roastery. The coffee was excellent, the food was tasty, and the prices were reasonable. It turned out to be the perfect spot for our much-needed brunch.
I spread the map out on the table, pondering our route as I take a few bites of food. The owner of the place, a friendly brunette, notices our deliberation and guesses that we are from Johannesburg. She gathers a few friends who join us at the table, each of them offering their own opinions on the best route to take, potholes to avoid, and the notorious arrogance of Johannesburg inhabitants. We bid them farewell and continue on our journey.
After a few minutes of driving, we realize that we forgot to double-check our directions. I pull over outside a shop called Tan’ Malie se Winkel, just past the Harties bridge. Feeling the effects of our lighthearted banter, I walk into the store with the map in my hand and approach the counter.
A grumpy old man wearing a plaid brown shirt barely acknowledges my presence before curtly asking what I need. He seems eager to get rid of me, as if I’m an unwanted intruder. And in that moment, it hits me like a bolt of lightning: “We’re not in Kansas anymore, Toto,” just like Dorothy in The Wonderful Wizard of Oz.
So, here’s the deal. We’re cruising along the R556, heading towards Thabazimbi, and things start to change. We leave behind the hustle and bustle of Harties and enter a more rugged landscape. This is mining territory, my friend. The earth is parched, and a railway track cuts its way through the barren land.
Now, some folks know this road as the one that leads to the Oppikoppi music bash in Northam. Others see it as the gateway to Sun City or the Pilanesberg National Park. But for now, what catches my eye are the drilling sites, the towering structures, and those dusty mounds that stand as reminders of the mines.
Every now and then, we encounter hitchhikers looking for a lift. The road is their lifeline, their chance to get from one place to another. It’s like a whole different world out here, you know?
But here’s where things take a bit of a turn. We reach the gates of Sun City, thinking we’re finally on track. Only to realize, uh-oh, we’re lost. But no worries! We put on our big-city thinking caps and spot some signs directing us to the Pilanesberg National Park. Aha! We’ve got a plan.
So, off we go, following those signs and tracing our way back onto the R510. And just like that, we’re back on track, ready for our next adventure.
A cow enjoying the sunset off the R510. Photo by Teagan Cunniffe.
When I look out of the car window, the world becomes a different place. It transforms into multiple layers of movement, with people bustling by, seeking shelter from the blazing sun under umbrellas. Street signs reveal the way to mines and townships built upon them. And in the distance, nature passes by slowly, inviting me to keep moving forward, like a never-ending tapestry of the North West.
I’m sitting in a wheelbarrow with my buddy, waiting for customers at the entrance of Zebula in the Waterberg region. This place is like a paradise of colors. The sand starts off a tan color, but then it transforms into a dazzling white. And as you venture further, you’ll see a whole spectrum of whites, reds, yellows, and browns. It’s like a dance of colors that tells a story of the earth’s fertility and barrenness.
We left Thabazimbi and took a turn onto a gravel road. We crossed over some railway tracks and found ourselves at the Angasii Game Lodge. This place is hidden deep within the thick bush, away from all the noise of the busy road. It’s so peacefully quiet here.
The next morning, after a nice stroll around the farm, I head into town for breakfast. Thabazimbi relies on the mining industry, and you can see plenty of affordable B&Bs and guest houses along the streets. However, the food options in town are not too exciting. There’s only one place open, the Koolstoof Restaurant, which offers average pub and grill food with a few home-cooked dishes. Besides the mining professionals, Thabazimbi is also a popular spot for hunters. The lodges in the area promote it as a selling point, and many game breeders, reserves, and predator parks have very loose regulations when it comes to wildlife and hunting. Some even offer cheetah walks or elephant encounters. But personally, I feel uneasy about these parks and their treatment of animals, so I hit the road and head towards Bela Bela on the R511.
I was absolutely captivated by the jumble of different things I saw inside Thabazimbi’s Koolstoof Restaurant. I couldn’t help but snap a photo to remember the moment. It’s amazing how a simple snapshot can transport you back to a unique experience.
An old bus sits quietly on the side of the road near Bela Bela. The route I’m driving on is beautiful, surrounded by lush greenery. Along the way, I pass farms, hay bales, and little shops. It feels like I’m in a movie. The landscape is so alive and fertile. And as cars drive by, I feel a sense of reassurance that I’m not heading towards the end of the world. In fact, I’m tempted to stop the car, take a moment to look around, and maybe even snap the perfect selfie with the stunning red Waterberg mountains in the background. But as I continue on, I arrive in Bela Bela, and it’s a different story. This place offers a wide selection of places to stay, but honestly, it seems like the small-town charm has been lost. It’s as if someone came in with bulldozers, wiping away the quaintness and replacing it with shopping malls, chain stores, and fast-food joints.
A few kilometers outside of town, though, the area really stands out. The Waterberg biosphere is a vast wilderness. There are over 100 different kinds of mammals, more waterbirds than anywhere else in the country, reptiles and fish, and an abundance of plant species.
You’ll find luxury lodges, traditional family resorts, farm stays, tented camps, and golf resorts that all provide a way to experience nature. Each one competes to offer the best views of the rugged landscape.
As I walk home with my family under the scorching heat of the Waterberg region, we carry sticks in our hands. These sticks will be used to create unique one-string guitars, a testament to our resourcefulness and creativity. Thanda Kunene captures the moment in a photograph, freezing the joy and determination in our faces.
Our journey leads us to a charming stone cottage nestled within the Bateleur Nature Reserve. This hidden gem is managed by a delightful and peculiar couple. When they realize that we have only brought beer and no food, they graciously offer to prepare breakfast and supper for us, without any charge. Their kindness warms our hearts, but unfortunately, this warmth is not evenly spread among all the guests. Traveling as a black person in this part of the country can still be challenging. The remnants of prejudice linger in the air, a reminder that not everyone embraces diversity.
These small towns we encounter on our journey present a unique set of obstacles. It feels as if we have stepped back in time, almost 50 years ago, when prejudice had no shield. In this world, even when it seems welcoming, it ensures that you are aware of your place. It takes more than a desire to explore and a filled wallet to navigate these hurdles. It also requires strength and resilience.
Despite the challenges, we forge ahead, leaving the dusty roads behind. For now, we find solace in the eco-friendly units nestled in the heart of the reserve. This sanctuary attracts hikers from all over the world who seek to explore its magnificent trails. It’s a testament to the universal allure of nature’s beauty, transcending divides and bringing people together.
When it comes to walking, some people just love it. They find joy in strapping on their shoes, hitting the pavement, and exploring the great outdoors. Walking can be a wonderful way to connect with nature, get some exercise, and clear your mind. However, for those of us who aren’t big fans of walking, there are plenty of other ways to enjoy the outdoors.
One of my favorite alternatives to walking is finding a spot to game watch. Instead of putting in all that effort to walk, you can kick back and relax while still enjoying the beauty of the outdoors. I like to find a comfortable spot on the veranda, where I can take in the view and watch the world go by. It’s the perfect way to end a long day on the road.
There’s something special about sitting on the veranda, just taking it all in. You can watch as the sun dips below the horizon, painting the sky with brilliant hues of orange and pink. You can listen to the sounds of nature – the birds chirping, the leaves rustling in the breeze. It’s a peaceful and serene experience, and it’s the perfect way to unwind after a busy day.
So, if you’re like me and walking isn’t really your thing, don’t worry. There are plenty of other ways to enjoy the outdoors. Find yourself a nice spot on the veranda, kick back, and relax. Take in the sights and sounds of nature. It’s a simple pleasure, but sometimes those are the best kinds of pleasures.
When I visited Bela Bela, I couldn’t help but be captivated by the breathtaking sunsets. There’s something truly magical about watching the sun dip below the horizon, casting a warm glow over the landscape.
Exciting Things to Do in Waterberg
1. Explore Marakele National Park
If you’re a nature lover like me, you’ll absolutely adore Marakele National Park. Located just outside Thabazimbi, this SANParks reserve is home to an incredible array of wildlife. From majestic elephants to mighty big cats, there’s something for everyone here. But what really sets Marakele apart is its Cape vulture population. With around 800 breeding pairs, it’s an absolute haven for bird enthusiasts. And the best part? A day pass is a steal at just R36 per adult and R18 per child (under 12).
2. Get Your Adrenaline Pumping at Thaba ‘Nkwe
Looking for an exhilarating adventure? Look no further than Thaba ‘Nkwe. With its well-marked trails, this mountain biking hotspot is gaining popularity as the new golf. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned rock hopper, you’ll find a trail that suits your skill level. And as you pedal through the rugged terrain, keep an eye out for graceful zebras, wildebeests, and other plains game. It’s an experience like no other. Give them a call at 0147722710 to plan your visit.
3. Soar Through the Treetops
Have you ever wanted to see the Waterberg from a bird’s-eye view? Well, with Waterberg Zipline Adventures, you can get pretty close! They offer a thrilling canopy tour that allows visitors to soar through the trees like an eagle. It’s an incredible experience that shouldn’t be missed. And the best part? It’s only R385 per person. Give them a call at 0735912280 to book your adventure.
4. Visit the Sondela Wildlife Centre
If you’re passionate about wildlife, you won’t want to miss the Sondela Wildlife Centre. Located just outside Bela Bela, this center cares for sick, injured, and orphaned animals until they can be released back into the wild. They provide a safe haven for rhinos, leopards, and caracals that are found in distress in the area. You can join a game drive for only R70 per adult, or R35 for children. It’s a great way to see these beautiful creatures up close. Give them a call at 0147368900 to check in on the get-well-soons.
5. Explore Bateleur Nature Reserve
If you’re new to hiking or just looking for a leisurely walk in nature, Bateleur Nature Reserve is the perfect place for you. They offer detailed maps and advice on hiking conditions, making it easy for first-time hikers to explore the wilderness. You can enjoy a day hike for only R100 per adult or R50 per child (under 16). It’s a great way to reconnect with nature and get some exercise. Give them a call at 0140130099 to plan your adventure.
Looking for a place to stay in the Waterberg?
1. Angasii Game Lodge
Hey there! Have you heard about Angasii Game Lodge? It’s an amazing place to stay. Let me tell you all about it!
First of all, let me say that Angasii Game Lodge is a quiet and cozy place. The lodge has these cool thatched, split-level lofts that come fully equipped with everything you need. It’s like your own little paradise!
Now, let’s talk about the food. You won’t have to worry about cooking because there’s a restaurant right on the premises. They serve up some delicious meals that you won’t want to miss. But, if you’re feeling a bit lazy and just want to relax in your chalet, don’t worry! You can also get packaged meals delivered right to your door. How convenient is that?
So, how much does it cost to stay at this wonderful lodge? Well, it starts at R500 per person if you’re sharing a loft with someone else. Oh, and just so you know, meals are not included in that price.
If you’re interested in staying at Angasii Game Lodge, you can give them a call at 0147840497. They’ll be happy to help you with any questions you may have.
So what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and get ready for an amazing stay at Angasii Game Lodge!
When the sun sets at the Angasii Game Lodge, it creates a magical atmosphere that you won’t soon forget. The vibrant colors of the sky blend with the landscape, creating a picturesque view that is perfect for capturing a stunning photo. So grab your camera and get ready to witness a breathtaking sunset like no other.
1. Bateleur Nature Reserve
If you’re a nature lover and enjoy hiking, then the Bateleur Nature Reserve is the place for you. This hidden gem offers not only beautiful trails to explore but also cozy accommodations managed by a warm and welcoming couple. We were lucky enough to stay in Stone Cottage, a charming abode that runs on solar power and gas. It’s the perfect eco-friendly getaway. With prices starting at just R1000 per night, it’s an affordable option for couples looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. So why wait? Book your stay now by calling 0140130099.
2. De Kunst Huisje
If you’re searching for a quirky and tastefully decorated bed and breakfast in the heart of Bela Bela, then look no further than De Kunst Huisje. This charming B&B offers a comfortable stay and serves as an excellent base for exploring the town and its attractions. The rates start at R440 per person, making it an excellent value for money option. To book your stay, simply call 0140017238 and secure your spot.
Places to eat
1. BisiBean Coffee Roasting Co.
If you’re a coffee enthusiast, then BisiBean Coffee Roasting Co. is a must-visit. They serve top-notch coffee, carefully crafted from a blend of Ethiopian and Kenyan beans. Pair your coffee with their delicious freshly baked goods, wraps, or sandwiches for a satisfying meal. To get your caffeine fix, give them a call at 0791438511.
2. Silver Orange Bistro
If you have some extra time (and money) to spare, I recommend checking out the Altyd Mooi farm. It’s located off the R512 next to Damdoryn Spar. They offer fully catered picnics from Silver Orange Bistro, but make sure to book at least 48 hours in advance. Give them a call at 0823782948 to make a reservation.
Another great option is Leopard Lodge. The best part about this place is the view. You can enjoy your meal on the veranda while overlooking the beautiful Hartbeespoort valley. It’s a good idea to book in advance, so give them a call at 0122071130.
If you’re a craft-beer lover, you should definitely pay a visit to L’abri Fountain Brewery. It’s only a 30-minute drive from Bela Bela, located on the D908 road to Diepdrift (keep an eye out for the dirt road). They always have at least six types of beer on tap, and they can even make cocktails to order. Just make sure to call and confirm their opening times. You can reach them at 0826051492.
Welcome to L’abri Fountain Brewery, a hidden treasure nestled in the heart of thick wilderness. Here, you’ll discover a sanctuary of refreshing ales, laughter, and captivating tales from the Waterberg region. It’s time to immerse yourself in an experience like no other.
Hey there! I’m here to give you a fresh take on this article. Let’s dive in!
This cool article was published back in June 2015 in Getaway magazine. Enjoy!
Just so you know, the prices mentioned were accurate at the time of publication. However, keep in mind that they may have changed since then. It’s always a good idea to double-check with the establishments before you make any travel plans.
