Taung Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, food and drink scene, where to stay and how to get around in Taung, plus practical information that will help you plan your trip to this charming town in South Africa.


Introduction to Taung

Taung is a small town located in the North West Province of South Africa. It has a rich cultural and historical heritage dating back to the prehistoric era. The town boasts a range of attractions including natural landmarks, museums, and outdoor adventures that make it an ideal destination for families, solo travelers, and couples alike.

List of Places to Visit in Taung

Taung has a range of places to visit that cater to every taste and interest.

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  1. Taung Skull Heritage Site: showcases the skull of a 2.5 million-year-old human ancestor.
  2. Magog Cultural Village: offers an immersive cultural experience of the Tswana people’s lifestyle, arts, and crafts.
  3. Taung Heritage Route: a self-driving tour that takes visitors through the town’s historical and cultural landmarks.

Natural Attractions of Taung: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  1. Marico Eye: an oasis in the desert, with crystal clear water suitable for swimming and a picnic.
  2. Taung Dam: ideal for fishing, birdwatching, and kayaking.
  3. Taung Gorge: a picturesque canyon that offers visitors breathtaking views and hiking opportunities.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Taung

Taung provides hiking and biking enthusiasts with a range of scenic trails to explore. The top three routes are as follows:

  1. Taung Dam Hiking Trail: a 7km route that takes hikers through the mountains and around the dam.
  2. Molopo Eye Hiking Trail: a 14km route that takes hikers around the breathtaking Marico Eye.
  3. Magogong Hiking Trail: a 6km route that winds through the village, showcasing the Tswana people’s unique culture and traditions.

Best Things to Do in Taung: Activities and Tours

Here are some of the top things to do and tours to try in Taung:

  1. Taung Cultural Experience Tour: an immersive tour of the Tswana culture, including traditional singing and dancing performances.
  2. Taung Skull Tour: a tour of the Taung Skull Heritage Site, including a guided tour of the Cradle of Humankind World Heritage Site.
  3. Taung Outdoor Adventure Tour: a tour that combines hiking, camping, birdwatching, and kayaking at the Taung Gorge and Dam.

Week-Long Itinerary for Taung

Here’s a suggested itinerary for a week spent in Taung:

Day 1: Arrival and check-in at accommodation Day 2: Visit Taung Skull Heritage Site and take the Taung Skull Tour Day 3: Hike the Molopo Eye Hiking Trail and have a picnic at Marico Eye Day 4: Take the Taung Cultural Experience Tour and visit Magog Cultural Village Day 5: Go fishing and kayaking at Taung Dam Day 6: Take the Taung Outdoor Adventure Tour and explore Taung Gorge Day 7: Departure

Food and Drink Scene of Taung

Taung has a range of local dishes and beverages that visitors should try.

Must-Try Dishes

  1. Pap and boerewors: a traditional South African meal of maize meal and spiced lamb sausage.
  2. Potjiekos: a slow-cooked stew cooked in a three-legged cast-iron pot.
  3. Samp and beans: a staple food of the Tswana people, consisting of corn kernels and legumes.

Local Beverages

  1. Umqombothi: a traditional African beer made from maize, sorghum, and water.
  2. Amarula Cream Liqueur: a creamy and sweet liqueur made from the marula fruit.
  3. Rooibos Tea: a caffeine-free tea made from the rooibos plant, which is native to South Africa.

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

Taung offers a range of accommodation options for visitors, including hotels, hostels, and guesthouses. Here are some top recommendations:

  1. The Royal Suite Hotel Taung: a four-star hotel that offers luxury accommodation and amenities.
  2. Taung Inn: a budget-friendly guesthouse located in the center of the town, close to all attractions.
  3. Molopo Lodge: a tranquil lodge located on the banks of the Taung Dam, ideal for an outdoor adventure experience.

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

Visitors to Taung can purchase a range of local products and souvenirs, including:

  1. Handcrafted Tswana pottery: exquisite pottery made using traditional techniques by the Tswana people.
  2. Biltong: a traditional South African snack of cured and dried meat.
  3. African tribal art: sculptures and carvings made by local artisans showcasing the rich African culture.

Local Culture and Customs of Taung

The Tswana people are the majority ethnic group in Taung, and their culture and customs play a vital role in the town’s day-to-day life. Visitors should dress modestly and seek permission before taking photographs of locals.

Best Time to Visit Taung

The best time to visit Taung is during the dry and cool season, which runs from May to September. During this period, temperatures are mild, and outdoor activities are comfortable to partake in.

Do’s and Don’ts of Taung

Do:

  1. Respect the town’s culture and customs.
  2. Dress modestly, especially when visiting cultural and religious sites.
  3. Try the local dishes and beverages.

Don’t:

  1. Take photographs of locals without their permission.
  2. Litter or damage the town’s natural landmarks.
  3. Disrespect the town’s cultural heritage.

Safety and Health

Safety in Taung

The town is generally safe, with a low crime rate. Visitors should, however, take precautions to protect their valuables, especially when hiking or visiting crowded areas.

Health in Taung

Visitors should ensure that they are up-to-date with their routine vaccinations, and consider getting vaccinated against hepatitis A and B, and typhoid. It’s advisable to carry insect repellent in case of mosquito bites and wear sunscreen to protect against sunburn.

Getting to Taung: Transportation Options and Logistics

Taung is accessible by road and air. Visitors can take a flight to the Mahikeng Airport, located 74 kilometers east of Taung, and take a taxi or bus to Taung. Alternatively, visitors can take a long-distance bus from Johannesburg or Pretoria to Taung.

Airports Near Taung

  1. Mmabatho International Airport
  2. OR Tambo International Airport

Bus Stations Near Taung

  1. Taung Taxi Rank
  2. Mmabatho Bus Rank

Other Options

Taxis and rental cars are readily available in Taung for visitors who prefer to move around at their own pace.

How to Get Around in Taung

The town is small and easily accessible on foot. Visitors can also make use of the local taxis and buses to move around.

Where to Go Next from Taung: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Visitors can explore the following neighboring destinations from Taung:

  1. Mafikeng: a city located 62 kilometers from Taung, known for its historical landmarks.
  2. Lichtenburg: a town located 73 kilometers from Taung, known for its agricultural activities and maize farming.
  3. Madikwe Game Reserve: a wildlife reserve located 147 kilometers from Taung, offering visitors an opportunity to see Africa’s wildlife up close.

Conclusion

Taung is an underrated gem in South Africa’s North West Province, offering visitors a chance to experience the country’s rich cultural and natural heritage. Whether you’re interested in history, hiking, or outdoor adventures, Taung has something for everyone.