TOURIST INFORMATION
Mopani Region Tourism
Tel 015 307 3582
Towns: Giyani, Haernertsburg, Phalaborwa, Modjadjikloof, Tzaneen, Hoedspruit, Bushbuckridge
At the heart of Limpopo, Mopani is the name given to the eastern lowveld and escarpment region of Limpopo. The name 'Mopani' is derived from the local 'Mopane Tree' that grows in abundance in the region. In Xitsonga this tree is called "muxanatsi", in Tshivenda, "mupani" and in Sepedi is "motlhanare". The mopani worms or masonja feed on the Mopane trees. Masonja is known locally for its high nutritional value, being high in protein. The Mopani Region is renowned for its abundance of wildlife (including the 'Big Five'), craggy mountains, huge man-made and indigenous forests, trout streams and cascading waterfalls. Including towns such as Giyani, Haenertsburg, Phalaborwa, Tzaneen and Modjadjikloof, the area also boasts a plethora of historical, cultural and ethnic attractions. The contrasts in climate, scenery and landscape within this region are striking and dramatic.
Recently the region was identified by an international research company as the "destination with the greatest potential for tourism growth in our country" and selected to host South Africa's celebration of World Tourism Day in 2004. With the majestic Drakensburg escarpment towering over its vast expanse of bushveld and tropical fruit farms, this area is distinctly different from other parts of the country. It is the hub of the nation's ecotourism industry, offering unmatched adventures for visitors ready to explore its splendour. Mopani offers easy access to the northern section of the Kruger National Park via the Phalaborwa Gate. The region is a canvas of contrasts in scenery, climate and landscape. Semi-desert, grassland savannah, bushveld and lush subtropical vegetation all feature in this region, a veritable wildlife mecca. Age-old indigenous forests, the beautiful escarpment and magnificent mountain ranges of the northern Drakensberg bear testimony to the age of this magnificent area. It harbours the heartland of the Lowveld, where visitors can experience real Africa. This part of Africa is still unhurried and unspoiled, with the full splendour of nature and wildlife just waiting to be enjoyed and appreciated. Teeming with a variety of wildlife, the Mopani district is home to numerous private game reserves and conservancies offering exciting wildlife-viewing opportunities with pleasures such as open-vehicle drives and walks to create special memories.
On that side of the escarpment overlooking the Lowveld to the Mozambiquan border is a unique cycad forest, guarded by the legendary Royal Kraal of Modjadji. The cycad reserve, which falls within the Modjadji Nature Reserve in the Mopani district, provides a somewhat other-worldly atmosphere. Its cycads have been protected by generations of Modjadji Rain Queens. These species grow prolifically in the area with specimens reaching up to 13 m in height and bearing cones that can weigh up to 34 kg.
The people of Mopani take pride in offering tourists and visitors a true African experience. Eager to share the abundance of their land with visitors, their warm and friendly hospitality is a hallmark of the region, generating lasting memories for visitors.
