Mapungubwe National Park

Overview

Are you a history buff? Then, this national park should be at the top of your bucket list! Situated in the Limpopo Province, close to the Botswana and Zimbabwean border, Mapungubwe is known to be the center of the first kingdom in Southern Africa that flourished between 1200 and 1290 A.D. In 2003 the park was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its cultural significance. Archaeologists discovered the famous Golden Rhino on the Mapungubwe Hill in the park, as well as remnants of a community dating back to the Iron Age with various artifacts.

Besides being rich in history, this national park is also rich in wildlife. The diverse landscape of riverine forests, mopane woodlands, and savannahs along the Limpopo River is also home to the Big Five, as well as giraffes, zebras, meerkats, duikers, kudus, elands, and over 400 bird species. Eager birdwatchers can keep an eye out for the Pel’s fishing owl and Kori bustard.

Various guided tours and game drives are available for visitors who want to go on safari or learn more about the national park’s heritage. Visitors can also experience the park from a different point of view with guided tree-top walks.

Mapungubwe National Park offers scenic views of the Limpopo River and the surrounding landscape, making it the perfect safari getaway. If you would like to stay in the national park, luxury lodges, self-catering chalets, and camping sites are available.