Discovering the Authentic Waterberg: A Local’s Perspective

Hey there! So, you’re interested in the stunning Waterberg region, huh? Well, buckle up and get ready for an insider’s guide to this special place. Trust me, once you explore its wonders, you won’t ever want to leave.

First things first, let’s talk about why the Waterberg is so darn amazing. Picture this: rolling hills, vast plains, and breathtaking landscapes as far as the eye can see. It’s a paradise for nature lovers, adventure enthusiasts, and anyone seeking a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.

Now, I gotta warn you – the Waterberg can be a bit perplexing. There’s just so much to do and see! But don’t worry, I’ve got your back. Together, we’ll unravel the mysteries and unearth the hidden gems that make this place truly unique.

Alright, let’s dive right into the good stuff. One of my favorite things about the Waterberg is its wildlife. Imagine being surrounded by graceful giraffes, majestic elephants, and mighty lions. It’s like stepping into a real-life Nat Geo documentary! Whether you’re a seasoned safari-goer or a first-timer, this place will blow your mind.

But hey, the Waterberg is more than just wildlife – it’s a playground for adventure seekers. Are you into hiking, biking, or horseback riding? Great, then get ready to conquer the rugged trails and witness awe-inspiring vistas at every turn. Oh, and did I mention there are adrenaline-pumping activities like zip-lining and abseiling too? Yup, you’ll definitely be getting your heart rate up in this neck of the woods.

Now, let’s talk culture. The Waterberg is home to vibrant communities with rich traditions and fascinating stories. You’ll have the chance to meet friendly locals, taste traditional cuisine, and immerse yourself in their way of life. Trust me, there’s nothing quite like hearing ancient tales around a crackling campfire under a star-filled sky.

Oh, and let’s not forget about the jaw-dropping scenery. The Waterberg is blessed with natural wonders that will leave you speechless. From stunning waterfalls and serene lakes to breathtaking viewpoints that offer panoramic vistas, this place is a photographer’s dream come true. Just make sure you have enough memory on your camera – you’ll be taking a lot of photos!

So, there you have it – my insider’s guide to the real Waterberg. I hope I’ve piqued your curiosity and sparked a sense of adventure within you. Now it’s your turn to experience this magical place for yourself. Trust me, you won’t be disappointed.

Guess what? There’s a place, not too far from Johannesburg, that’s an absolute haven for wildlife lovers like you and me. I’m talking about the Waterberg – a spot that holds a special place in my heart. You see, I’ve been going there since I was a kid. Both of my grandfathers were even born in the area! One on a farm in Naboomspruit (now Mookgopong), and the other under a tree on a cattle farm just outside Nylstroom (now Modimolle). The way I see it, the true essence of the Waterberg is a beautiful blend of those two worlds.

Imagine driving through the Waterberg, a place I know like the back of my hand. It’s like a familiar song that I can hum along to without missing a beat. With each kilometer marker that I pass, I can’t help but feel a sense of excitement building up inside me.

There’s this one bend in the road, about 240 kilometers from Joburg, where the landscape suddenly changes. I see the sign indicating a reduced speed limit of 70km/h, and I know that something incredible is about to reveal itself. I take my foot off the gas pedal and steal a quick glance to my left.

Standing tall and proud, like a group of sisters, are the stunning Seven Sisters mountains. Their shapes are so alike, as if they were created from the same mold. They serve as guardians, welcoming me into the Waterberg plateau.

As I continue on, the road starts to climb, snaking its way through the mountains. It feels like an adventure, with the red walls of the peaks encircling me. For a brief moment, my phone loses signal, and the radio falls silent. It’s in this very moment that I know I’ve truly arrived in the heart of the bushveld. The air feels different, and I can almost taste the savory biltong.

When I first starting visiting Vaalwater, I remember going to Baber’s Butchery to buy meat and droëwors. It was a tradition for us. And then we would head over to the small Spar next to the Total garage to get our supplies. The town had these towering grain silos right in the center, and we would always stop by to buy yellow mealie meal for our breakfast. Behind the grain silos was the Agrimark, where we’d go to buy lucerne, salt lick, and other supplies for our small game farm. While my dad took care of the boring stuff, my mom, my sister, and I would explore The Black Mamba. It was so much fun, looking around while enjoying some biltong. Sometimes, if I was really lucky, I would find a necklace, a piece of printed fabric, or a ring made from bone that I absolutely loved.

Whenever I’m passing through, I always make a point to stop at the shop. Vaalwater is not only a place I’ve been visiting for years, but it’s also a gateway for travelers heading to Botswana. However, it wasn’t until recently that I had the opportunity to meet the owner of the shop. I can still vividly recall when the shop used to be in the old garage building, right where the Spar is now located. Nowadays, it has found its new home in a face-brick outdoor shopping complex, which has quickly become the heart of Waterberg safari life.

At The Black Mamba, you’ll discover a variety of colorful and unique crafts.

I’ve known Hilda Mahlako, the shop assistant, ever since the store first opened. Even though we haven’t been regular visitors since 2010 when we sold our farm, she always makes a point to ask about my mom and sister. Just as I’m about to leave, Hilda says, ‘I remember you when you were just a little kid.’ She demonstrates by gesturing with her hand, pinching her fingers together and pointing upwards so as not to crush a child’s spirit. She holds her hand beside her to show how tall I’ve grown since then. I happily leave the shop with a small mat made from Chappies wrappers and two red necklaces crafted from lucky beans. And the great thing is, each necklace only costs R15!’

When I think of Vaalwater, I can’t help but notice how it has changed over time. Nowadays, there’s a small mall, but what really makes this place special is that there’s still only one stop street and no traffic lights. It’s those little things that bring me joy.

Even though I can’t go back to the farm anymore, there are still two places in the Waterberg that hold a special place in my heart: Lindani Lodges and Matamba Bush Campsite. These places remind me of a different time, when the Waterberg was filled with swamps and enormous lakes.

What truly defines the Waterberg for me are its colorful rocks, covered in lichen. When I gaze upon them, I can almost see the waves frozen in time. It’s a sight that never fails to amaze me. And the best part? I can experience this natural wonder at both Lindani Lodges and Matamba Bush Campsite.

Not only do these places offer stunning scenery, but they also provide warm hospitality and great value. It’s the perfect combination that keeps me coming back for more.

Imagine a scene at Lindani Lodge: a group of impalas gathers, their hooves tapping on the ground. It’s a place that holds special memories for me. When I was younger, my grandparents would whisk my sister and me away to Lindani Lodges during school breaks. We had the time of our lives, pedaling our bikes, searching for dung beetles and collecting porcupine quills. One of our favorite activities was visiting Bwana, the orphaned black rhino, at conservationist Clive Walker’s home in the nearby Lapalala Wilderness Reserve.

Lindani was where my passion for conservation began to blossom. As I stumbled upon a stack of nature magazines, my curiosity stirred. I begged my grandpa to subscribe me to EnviroKids, the Wildlife & Environment Society of South Africa’s magazine. From that moment on, I dedicated myself to learning about the wonders of nature. Clive Walker became my hero, and I devoured his books on animal tracks and animal droppings. I even penned my own wildlife poems and sketched drawings of magnificent creatures like the kudu.

Little did I know that years later, destiny would bring me back to Lindani Lodge in a whole new capacity. As a photographer for Getaway, I had the incredible opportunity to capture my childhood idol, Clive Walker, on film. But that wasn’t all. Clive introduced me to his latest project, the Waterberg Living Museum, a place where the rich biodiversity of the Waterberg region comes to life.

As I meet up with Hilda at The Black Mamba, we head off to explore the museum site. Clive, who is leading the project, takes me on a tour, showing me the various buildings and a pathway that connects them. The museum is a tribute to the rich natural and human history of the Waterberg region. Clive has big plans for the site, including a research center and an outdoor coffee shop.

I’m really impressed by what I see, and I have no doubt that this project will be a huge success. I’m eagerly looking forward to visiting again once the museum is open. It’s going to be an amazing experience!

Let me introduce you to Clive Walker, an incredible watercolor artist. He recently showed me some fossils that he plans to exhibit at the upcoming Waterberg Living Museum.

Right now, it’s Christmas, and my family and I are spending the holidays at Lindani. We chose to stay in the three-bedroom Skebenga Lodge, which is conveniently located near the Palala River and a peaceful dam filled with beautiful lilies. Being here brings a mix of nostalgia and contentment. We reminisce about the moments spent on the farm, sharing stories and laughter.

We are making the most of the delicious meals prepared in the Lindani kitchen. They offer a variety of freshly made dishes like stews and quiches that you can simply warm up. While we enjoy our own cooking on the grill, it’s a special treat to have milk tart, apple crumble, and freshly baked seed bread to enhance our meals.

Matamba is a unique destination, unlike any other camping experience you might have had. It allows you to truly connect with nature in a more refined way. While many people see it as a quick pitstop on the way from Joburg to Botswana, I believe Matamba is worth staying at for a whole weekend. Each campsite is nestled within beautiful indigenous woodland, creating a serene atmosphere. You’ll have the chance to observe peaceful sable and graceful giraffes in their natural habitat. Plus, every campsite comes with an ample supply of firewood, perfect for cozying up under the dazzling night sky and enjoying a delicious braai.

Imagine standing under the vast expanse of a night sky, filled with countless stars twinkling above you. Now picture yourself taking a refreshing shower in an outdoor bathroom surrounded by the peaceful sounds of nature. That’s the kind of experience you can have at Matamba Bush Camp.

As I drive back to Johannesburg, a story by a South African travel writer named Dana Snyman comes to mind. He embarked on a journey to discover the true essence of the bushveld. Traveling through different places like Britz, Thabazimbi, Bela-Bela, and Lephalale, he was on a mission to find it. In his story, there’s a line that I often read when I’m back home, nestled next to my bookshelf. It resonates deeply with me: ‘The Bushveld isn’t a place … the Bushveld is in your heart.’ I couldn’t agree more. And luckily, in the Waterberg region, there are a few hidden gems of pristine beauty that I can explore whenever I need a reminder.

Where do the locals go?

Clive Walker, conservationist

Bonjour Cafe: A Hidden Gem

Hey there! I’ve come across this amazing cafe that I just have to share with you. It’s called Bonjour Cafe, and let me tell you, it is excellent. It’s like a secret spot that most travel enthusiasts flock to. Believe me, it’s worth a visit!

There’s another place called La Fleur, which is more than just a coffee shop. They serve excellent food as well. So, if you’re looking for a place to grab a bite, La Fleur is definitely worth considering.

Hilda Mahlako, shop assistant

Zeederberg Centre and Kamatsogo NGO Shop: Hidden Treasures

Hey, have you ever been to the Zeederberg Centre? It’s a local shopping hub where you can find everything you need. It’s a popular spot among the locals. And while you’re there, make sure to check out the Kamatsogo NGO Shop. The talented ladies there do some beautiful embroidery and sewing. It’s definitely worth a visit!

Sam van Coller, lodge owner

St John the Baptist Church: A Sunday Serenity

Good day! I’d like to share my favorite Sunday morning ritual with you. I always attend the service at St John the Baptist Church. The church building itself is a masterpiece designed by Herbert Baker. It’s a tranquil and peaceful place to start your day. If you’re in the area on a Sunday morning, I highly recommend stopping by.

3 Hidden Gems Along the Way

When you’re in the mood for some local fruit, you should definitely visit Waterval Padstal. It’s located about 22km from Modimolle on the R33 to Vaalwater. You can get a box of peaches there for just R35 when they’re in season. And keep your eyes peeled along the roadside, because they sometimes have other seasonal fruits like watermelons and golden marulas for sale.

If you drive another 11km from Waterval Padstal, you’ll arrive at Geluksfontein Cheese Farm. This place is so much fun for kids! They can feed the animals and have a great time. And let me tell you, the restaurant at the farm has the best toasted sandwiches at the most affordable prices. You can also get an old-school jaffle there. And don’t forget to buy some of their delicious goat’s cheese before you leave.

Before you reach Vaalwater, there’s another fantastic stop you should make – Mapita Farm Stall. It’s on the right-hand side, about 4km before Vaalwater. This place is known for its homemade lemonade cordial and marmalade made by locals. And if you’re feeling adventurous, they have some unique jams like pear and watermelon. You can get a bottle starting at R45.

So, if you’re planning a trip in this area, make sure to check out these amazing places. And remember, it’s always a good idea to support local businesses and try their delicious products. Happy travels!

Plan your trip:

Getting there:

To get to Vaalwater from Johannesburg, follow these simple steps. First, hop onto the N1 highway and head north. Drive for about 160km until you reach the Kranskop Toll Plaza. Take the left exit to Modimolle and continue on the R33 road through the town center.

After that, it’s just a 60km drive to Vaalwater. Make sure to stock up on ice, fuel, and food in Vaalwater, as it’s the last place to find these essentials before your final destination.

Here’s what you need to do:

Imagine cruising down dirt roads, surrounded by the majestic beauty of mountains at Marakele National Park. It’s a thrilling experience that you can enjoy by mountain biking or hiking along one of Lindani’s many accredited trails. Don’t worry if you’re just visiting for the day, you’re more than welcome! Just make sure to arrange your trip two days in advance by calling 0836315579.

If you’re looking for unique crafts from all over Africa, look no further than The Black Mamba. This charming store not only offers a wide range of unusual crafts but also has an impressive selection of books about the area and informative nature guidebooks. For inquiries, give them a call at 0737010543.

One of the must-see attractions in the area is the famous Big Five at Marakele National Park. Just half an hour away from Vaalwater, this park offers a stunning view of the Waterberg range and is home to a Cape vulture colony. It’s a one-of-a-kind experience that you can have as a day visitor (R48 pp), where you even have the opportunity to self-drive in Big Five territory. Contact them at 0124289111 for more information.

But wait, there’s more!

If you find yourself in need of a tasty omelette in a beautiful courtyard, look no further than Seringa Cafe. This local hotspot is a favorite among both residents and tourists, who often sport khaki clothing to fit in with the fashionable crowd. At Seringa Cafe, you can enjoy freshly blended juices made from seasonal ingredients, as well as delicious and affordable dishes. Don’t forget to jot down their phone number: 014-161-0643.

Lodging Options

Welcome to Matamba Bush Campsite! We offer a unique and upmarket camping experience that you won’t find anywhere else. Our Tau Camp is spread over four hectares and features four camping sites that are approximately 200 meters apart. You’ll have access to shared ablutions, a beautiful thatched kitchen area, and a small pool where you can relax and cool off. Our camping rates start at just R330 per person.

If you’re looking for something more exclusive, consider our Mara’s Camp. Tucked away in the heart of our farm, this campsite offers a truly secluded and tranquil experience. The ablutions at Mara’s Camp are uniquely decorated and built around the surrounding trees, adding an extra touch of charm to your camping adventure. Rates for Mara’s Camp start at R360 per person.

At Lindani Lodges, we have nine different self-catering options for you to choose from. For a weekend getaway with friends, our Molope tented camp is the perfect choice. It can accommodate up to eight people and rates start at just R310 per person. For larger groups, our Motseng Lodge complex is ideal. With four houses and space for up to 18 guests, it offers plenty of room for everyone. Rates for the Motseng Lodge complex start at R370 per person.

Whether you choose Matamba Bush Campsite or Lindani Lodges, we guarantee that you’ll have a memorable and enjoyable camping experience. Our facilities are top-notch, and our staff is friendly and welcoming. Book your stay with us today and start planning your perfect camping getaway!