With big game reserves, art galleries, shopping centers and insights into indigenous peoples, Polokwane has much to offer nature and culture lovers. The capital of the Limpopo province is also noted for its parks, wide streets, coral trees and jacarandas.
Polokwane is one of the largest cities in the north of the country, a major commercial hub amid a rural wildness. It came to global prominence when it hosted 2010 FIFA World Cup soccer matches.
Go to the downtown center for a tour of its fascinating cultural attractions. Browse traditional and contemporary paintings and sculptures by Tsonga, Venda and Pedi artists at the Polokwane Art Museum. Then visit the Sculpture Art Park for sculptures that focus on the music of indigenous African groups and Boers, descendants of Dutch-speaking settlers. At the Hugh Exton Photographic Museum, study photographs that chart the first 50 years of Polokwane's history.
Travel further back in time when you tour the Bakone Malapa Open-Air Museum, just north of the city. The cultural attraction is a reconstructed 18th-century village of the BaSotho culture. Walk into traditional homesteads that are made of bricks, mortar, mud and cow dung and watch woodcraft and pottery demonstrations. While you are here, study artifacts from Stone Age tribes.
Drive south of the city center for 10 minutes to reach the Polokwane Game Reserve. Enjoy a safari on foot along the hiking trails or in your car. Among the wildlife that can be seen here are white rhinos, giraffes and many bird species. The reserve also has ranger guided tours and overnight accommodation.
Polokwane has lots more leisure activities to occupy your free time. Watch a game of rugby or soccer at the Peter Mokaba Stadium, shop at the Savannah Mall and dine in one of the many restaurants.
The city is a few minutes by car from Polokwane International Airport. Get around on foot or by taxi, rental car and public transport. Book a vacation at this year-round South Africa destination for art, history, indigenous culture and wildlife.
