A major town in Limpopo province of South Africa, Phalaborwa is highly admired for being the base for exploration of central and northern Kruger. A vast majority of well heeled travellers willing to explore Kruger fly business class to Phalaborwa and hire a taxi or car from there. As a destination, the town doesn’t have much to offer in terms of tourist attractions, but its rich surroundings compensates for it.
Useful Information
- The best time to visit Phalaborwa is from July to October.
- Use of bottled water is recommended in order to ward off waterborne disease.
- Extensive insurance against theft, loss of property and health problems should be taken.
As safari is major draw card for the city the guests will try to see its wildlife rich countryside. Mtomeni Wilderness Trail which is spread over 42,000 hectare is well known for its elephant and buffalo population. The game reserve shares an unfenced border with Kruger National Park. The park also acts as a base for wilderness trail. Masorini Village Museum, which is 11 kilometer away from the Phalaborwa Gate, is also a place of interest. The village dates back to Stone Age but it has been restored now. Foskor Mine Museum which is situated in Limpopo should also be part of your itinerary. The province of Limpopo is surrounded by Zimbabwe, Botswana and Gauteng thus attracts a large number of travelers who come to visit this city and also visit this museum. The museum throws light on rich and long history of mining in this region. The guest can also go to visit Big Hole which has a width of 20km and depth of 450m.
No trip of Phalaborwa is said to be complete unless you visit Kruger Notational Park which is the top draw card here. And Malopeni 4x4 Trail is a medium to explore Krugger National Park. The 71 kilometre trail starts at Phalaborwa Gate and ends at the same place. One the way you will spot rich flora and fauna of this region. On the way you can find campsite and other resources. Hans Merensky Nature Reserve which is situated on the banks of Great Letaba River is also a great experience where you can explore wildlife on foot. Zebra, wildebeest, warthog, hippo, giraffe and several varieties of antelope are commonly found animals here. As it is lined with a river it attracts a large number of bird species that makes it a birdwatchers paradise. If you are fond of boat ride then take a 3 hour long boat cruise on Olifants River and take a glimpse of crocodile, hippo and elephants on the way.