Thohoyandou Travel Guide

Explore the natural beauty and cultural richness of Thohoyandou in Limpopo, South Africa with our comprehensive travel guide. Discover the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay, and more!


Introduction to Thohoyandou

Thohoyandou is a town located in the Limpopo province of South Africa. It is known for its vibrant cultural heritage and stunning natural beauty. The town is the capital of the Vhembe district municipality and is situated at the foot of the Soutpansberg mountain range. The town has a rich history dating back to the Venda Kingdom ruled by the Thohoyandou people. Today, Thohoyandou is a popular tourist destination with plenty of things to see and do.

List of Places to Visit in Thohoyandou

Thohoyandou has plenty of attractions for visitors to explore. From culturally significant museums to natural wonders, there is something for everyone. Here are some of the best places to visit in Thohoyandou:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Thulamela Archaeological Site: This ancient site is located within the Kruger National Park and is a must-see for visitors interested in history and archaeology.
  • Venda Cultural Village: This ethnographic village is a living museum that showcases the traditional way of life of the Venda people.
  • Thathe Vondo Forest: This sacred forest is believed to be home to ancestral spirits of the Thohoyandou people.

Natural Attractions of Thohoyandou: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Hanglip Forest Reserve: This reserve is home to a variety of wildlife, including giraffe, zebra, and wildebeest, as well as numerous hiking trails.
  • Phiphidi Waterfalls: This stunning waterfall is located near the Thathe Vondo Forest and is a popular spot for swimming and picnicking.
  • Lwamondo Hill: This hill offers panoramic views of the town of Thohoyandou and the surrounding countryside.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Thohoyandou

Thohoyandou is an excellent destination for hiking and biking enthusiasts. With a variety of trails ranging from easy to challenging, visitors can explore the stunning natural surroundings of the town. Some of the best hiking and biking routes in Thohoyandou include:

  • Soutpansberg Hiking Trail: This 70 km hike takes visitors through the scenic Soutpansberg mountain range and offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
  • Vhembe Wilderness Trails: These trails wind through the Hanglip Forest Reserve and offer visitors a chance to spot wildlife such as giraffe, zebra, and wildebeest.
  • The Kruger Park Mafunyane Trail: This trail is located within the Kruger National Park and is a great spot for birdwatching.

Best Things to Do in Thohoyandou: Activities and Tours

There are plenty of things to do in Thohoyandou, from exploring the cultural heritage of the town to enjoying outdoor adventures. Here are some of the best things to do in Thohoyandou:

  • Visit the Venda Cultural Village: This living museum offers visitors an opportunity to experience the traditional way of life of the Venda people.
  • Take a guided tour of the Thulamela Archaeological Site: This ancient site is located within the Kruger National Park and is best explored with a knowledgeable guide.
  • Visit Phiphidi Waterfalls: This stunning waterfall is a popular spot for swimming and picnicking.

Week-Long Itinerary for Thohoyandou

Thohoyandou has plenty to offer visitors, and a week-long itinerary is an excellent way to explore the town fully. Here is a suggested week-long itinerary for Thohoyandou:

Day Activity
1 Visit the Venda Cultural Village, learn about Venda history and traditions
2 Hike the Soutpansberg Hiking Trail to see panoramic views of the countryside
3 Visit Thulamela Archaeological Site located in Kruger National Park
4 Explore the Hanglip Forest Reserve and go birdwatching
5 Visit the Thathe Vondo Forest and see the ancient trees
6 Take a guided tour of the Phiphidi Waterfalls and go for a swim
7 Relax and explore the town at your leisure

Food and Drink Scene of Thohoyandou

Thohoyandou has a vibrant food and drink scene with plenty of local dishes to try. Here are some must-try dishes and beverages in Thohoyandou:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Mopani Worms: This traditional dish is made from the larvae of the mopani moth and is a delicacy in the region.
  • Venda-style chicken: This chicken dish is cooked with tomato and onion sauce and served with pap, a maize porridge.
  • Boerewors: This sausage is a South African favorite and is commonly sold on the streets of Thohoyandou.

Local Beverages

  • Ting: This refreshing drink is made from fermented mielie-meal and is popular in the region.
  • Marula beer: This beer is made from the fruit of the marula tree and is a popular alcoholic beverage in the area.

Where to Stay in Thohoyandou: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Thohoyandou has a variety of accommodation options for visitors to choose from. From hotels to guesthouses, there is something to suit every budget. Here are some of the best places to stay in Thohoyandou:

  • Peermont Metcourt Hotel: This hotel is located near the Thohoyandou CBD and offers guests comfortable rooms and excellent food.
  • Mount Azimbo Lodge: This lodge is located on a hill overlooking Thohoyandou and offers guests stunning views of the town and the surrounding countryside.
  • Jaheni Lodge: This guesthouse is located in a tranquil area just outside of Thohoyandou and offers guests a peaceful escape from the town.

What to Buy in Thohoyandou: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Thohoyandou is known for its vibrant craft industry, and there are plenty of local products to buy as souvenirs. Here are some of the best products to buy in Thohoyandou:

  • Traditional Venda cloth: These brightly colored cloths are hand-woven by local artisans and are a staple of the Venda culture.
  • Wooden carvings: These carvings are made from local wood and feature various animals and cultural symbols.
  • Beaded jewelry: These unique pieces of jewelry are made from colorful beads and are typical of the Venda culture.

Local Culture and Customs of Thohoyandou

Thohoyandou has a rich cultural heritage, and visitors should take the time to learn about the customs and traditions of the Venda people. Here are some key aspects of the local culture and customs in Thohoyandou:

  • Respect for ancestors and the spiritual world is an essential part of Venda culture.
  • The Venda people are known for their artistry, particularly in the areas of music, dance, and craft.
  • The Venda language is still spoken in the area and is an essential part of the cultural identity of the people.

Best Time to Visit Thohoyandou

The best time to visit Thohoyandou is during the dry winter months between May and September. The weather is mild and pleasant, making it an excellent time for outdoor activities like hiking and biking.

Do’s and Don’ts of Thohoyandou

Do:

  • Learn about the local culture and customs and be respectful of them.
  • Try traditional Venda dishes and beverages.
  • Take part in a guided tour to learn more about the history and environment of the area.

Don’t:

  • Take photographs of people without their permission.
  • Wear revealing clothing in public places.
  • Be disrespectful to local customs and traditions.

Safety and Health

Safety in Thohoyandou

Thohoyandou is generally a safe place to visit. However, visitors should take the same precautions they would in any unfamiliar place, such as:

  • Avoid walking alone at night.
  • Keep valuables out of sight.
  • Be aware of your surroundings at all times.

Health in Thohoyandou

Travellers to Thohoyandou should take precautions to protect themselves from malaria, which is prevalent in the region. It is recommended to take anti-malaria medication and wear long-sleeved clothing and insect repellent when outdoors.

Getting to Thohoyandou: Transportation Options and Logistics

Thohoyandou is accessible by air and road.

Airports Near Thohoyandou

  • Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport: This airport is located 350 km from Thohoyandou and is the closest international airport.
  • Polokwane International Airport: This airport is located 160 km from Thohoyandou and is a domestic airport.

Bus Stations Near Thohoyandou

  • Makhado Bus Station: This station is located in the town of Makhado, 32 km from Thohoyandou, and offers both long-distance and local bus services.

Other Options

  • Car rental: Visitors can rent a car at Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport or Polokwane International Airport and drive to Thohoyandou.

How to Get Around in Thohoyandou

The best way to get around Thohoyandou is by car. Visitors can rent a car at Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport or Polokwane International Airport, or hire a car in Thohoyandou.

Where to Go Next from Thohoyandou: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

There are plenty of nearby destinations and excursions in the region that visitors can explore once they have finished exploring Thohoyandou. Here are some suggestions:

  • Kruger National Park: This world-renowned wildlife reserve is located only a few hours from Thohoyandou and is worth the visit.
  • Mapungubwe National Park: This park is a UNESCO World Heritage site and is known for its unique landscape and diverse wildlife.
  • Magoebaskloof: This picturesque area is located south of Thohoyandou and is characterized by lush forests, waterfalls, and scenic mountain passes.

Conclusion

Thohoyandou is a vibrant destination that is rich in culture and natural beauty. With plenty of attractions to explore and activities to enjoy, visitors are sure to have a memorable trip. By following our comprehensive travel guide, you will be able to get the most out of your trip to this stunning part of South Africa.