Mapungubwe National Park Travel Guide

Discover the culturally rich and diverse natural attractions of Mapungubwe National Park in Limpopo, South Africa. This guide offers a detailed itinerary, tips on food, accommodations, and transportation, and highlights the best activities to do in the park.


Introduction to Mapungubwe National Park

Located in the northern province of Limpopo in South Africa, Mapungubwe National Park is a cultural and natural heritage site. The park is 28,000 hectares in size and borders Zimbabwe and Botswana. It is named after the ancient city of Mapungubwe, which existed over 800 years ago and was an important trade center. The park was established to protect its unique biodiversity and rich cultural heritage.

Mapungubwe National Park is an ideal safari destination where visitors can experience the dynamic wildlife of Africa. Besides, the park boasts a diverse range of outdoor activities, such as hiking, birding, and hot air ballooning. This guide highlights the best things to see and do in Mapungubwe National Park.

List of Places to Visit in Mapungubwe National Park

The park is a treasure trove of cultural and natural attractions. Here is a list of places you shouldn’t miss when visiting Mapungubwe National Park:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Mapungubwe Hill
  • Interpretation Centre Knowledge
  • Masebe Nature Trail

Natural Attractions of Mapungubwe National Park: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Limpopo River Floodplain
  • Tshugulu Lodge’s Biodiversity Walk
  • Confluence Viewsite
  • Maloutswa Bird Hide

Hiking/Biking Routes of Mapungubwe National Park

Mapungubwe National Park is a paradise for hikers and mountain bikers. You can explore the park on foot or on two wheels. Here are some of the best trails that offer scenic views of the park:

  • Bambandyanalo Trail (5 kilometers round trip)
  • Mapungubwe Mountain Bike Trail (12 kilometers one way)
  • Tshugulu Lodge Biodiversity Walk (4 kilometers)

Best Things to Do in Mapungubwe National Park: Activities and Tours

Mapungubwe National Park offers exciting things to do and places to explore. Here are some of the must-try activities and tours:

  • Safari drives to see the Big Five: lion, leopard, elephant, rhino, and buffalo.
  • Hot air balloon rides over the park
  • Bird watching
  • Mountain biking and hiking
  • Cultural tours with trained guides

Week-Long Itinerary for Mapungubwe National Park

Here is a proposed itinerary for a week-long visit to Mapungubwe National Park:

Day 1: Arrive in the park, take a safari drive, and check-in at the lodges. Day 2: Take a cultural tour to learn about the ancient city of Mapungubwe and its significance. Day 3: Enjoy a game drive early in the morning and then go for a hike or a mountain bike ride in the park. Day 4: Take a hot air balloon ride over the park and enjoy a picnic breakfast overlooking the Limpopo River. Day 5: Explore the floodplain by foot and go bird watching along the way. Day 6: Relax in the lodge or camp and enjoy a sundowner at confluence viewpoint. Day 7: Depart after Breakfast.

Food and Drink Scene of Mapungubwe National Park

When visiting Mapungubwe National Park, you’ll have the opportunity to try a wealth of local and regional dishes. Here’s an overview of some of the must-try foods and drinks:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Biltong, a type of cured meat
  • Potjiekos, a slow-cooked stew
  • Pap, a maize meal porridge
  • Samosas, a fried pastry filled with spiced vegetables or meat

Local Beverages

  • Rooibos Tea, a caffeine-free herbal tea that’s rich in antioxidants.
  • Amarula, a cream liqueur made from the marula fruit.
  • Wines from the Limpopo Valley, produced in the fertile valley areas of South Africa.

Where to Stay in Mapungubwe National Park: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Mapungubwe National Park offers a range of accommodations that cater to different tastes and budgets:

  • Tshugulu Lodge
  • Mapungubwe Hill Lodge
  • Leokwe Camp
  • Mazhou Camp
  • Vhembe Wilderness Camp

What to Buy in Mapungubwe National Park: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

There are plenty of souvenirs and local products that you can bring back home from Mapungubwe National Park to remember your visit. Some of these include:

  • Handcrafted Wooden Crafts
  • Traditional Khuba Basotho Blankets
  • Beaded Jewelry and Crafts
  • African Mask and Sculptures

Local Culture and Customs of Mapungubwe National Park

When visiting Mapungubwe National Park, it’s essential to learn more about the local culture and customs. The Venda and Tswana tribes are the dominant ethnic groups in the region. The cultural heritage of the park is preserved in the Interpretation Centre Knowledge where you can learn about the history and traditions of these communities.

Best Time to Visit Mapungubwe National Park

The best time to visit Mapungubwe National Park would be from April to September, during the dry winter season. During this time, the animals congregate around water sources, making them easier to spot on safari drives.

Do’s and Don’ts of Mapungubwe National Park

Do:

  • Listen to the park rangers and follow their instructions.
  • Keep yourself updated with the weather forecast.
  • Carry adequate water and sunscreen.
  • Respect local cultures and customs.

Don’t:

  • Litter in the park.
  • Approach wild animals too closely.
  • Hike or bike outside designated trails.

Safety and Health

Before visiting Mapungubwe National Park, there are a few safety and health precautions you should take.

Safety in Mapungubwe National Park

  • Always keep a safe distance from wild animals.
  • Stay within the designated areas of the park and follow the park’s rules and regulations.
  • Carry adequate water and sunscreen and wear protective clothing when hiking.

Health in Mapungubwe National Park

  • Make sure that you have all the necessary vaccinations required for visiting South Africa, and carry a medical kit with basic essentials.
  • Don’t drink tap water.

Getting to Mapungubwe National Park: Transportation Options and Logistics

There are several ways of getting to Mapungubwe National Park, you can reach the park by car, bus, or plane as follows:

Airports Near Mapungubwe National Park

  • Polokwane International Airport (approximately 280 km from the Park)

Bus Stations Near Mapungubwe National Park

  • Musina Bus Station
  • Louis Trichardt Bus Station

Other Options

  • Self-Driving: There are several routes to Mapungubwe from nearby cities such as Pretoria or Johannesburg.

How to Get Around in Mapungubwe National Park

The park can be traversed on foot, by bike or while on a game drive. For any excursions outside the park, it’s recommendable to rent a car with GPS navigation to explore the surrounding areas.

Where to Go Next from Mapungubwe National Park: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

There are plenty of other destinations to explore within Limpopo once you have finished visiting Mapungubwe National Park. Here are some nearby getaways:

  • Kruger National Park
  • The Waterberg Biosphere Reserve
  • The Blouberg Mountains
  • Mogalakwena Craft Villiage

Conclusion

Mapungubwe National Park is a treasure trove of cultural heritage and biodiversity situated in the Limpopo province of South Africa. The park is a perfect blend of culture, adventure, and relaxation. From wild game drives to hot air ballooning, there is something for everyone, making it an ideal destination for all sorts of travelers, and this comprehensive guide will get you started on your memorable adventure in the park.

Mapungubwe Hill Mapungubwe Hill