the waterberG
"Often described as the undiscovered gem of the South African safari circuit."
The Waterberg District is one of South Africa’s most beautiful mountainous regions and is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site because of its indigenous flora & fauna, ancient rock art, and geological sites.
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Located in the Limpopo Province of South Africa, approximately 3 hours drive from Johannesburg, the Waterberg District encompasses approximately 600 000 hectares of pristine wilderness, with popular game reserves such as Welgevonden, Marakele, Mabalingwe, and Lapalala making up a big portion of the region.
LIMPOPO
PROVINCE
the waterberg
SOUTH
AFRICA
The Waterberg Mountains stretch along
DISCOVER
the vast splendor
and scenic valleys.
spectacular vistas
The extensive rock formation was shaped by hundreds of millions of years of riverine erosion to yield diverse bluff and butte landform. The sandstone formations could retain groundwater enough to make a suitable environment for primitive man. The cliff overhangs offered natural shelters for these early humans. The first human ancestors may have been at Waterberg as early as three million years ago.
"Almost the size of the Kruger National Park, the UNESCO Waterberg Biosphere Reserve has it all."
the biosphere reserve
The Waterberg Biosphere Reserve, formally launched in 2001, is one of some 400 UNESCO-registered biosphere reserves established around the world. It is the only “savanna” reserve of this type in southern Africa. It is a partnership between different reserves and settlements in the area to create an ecosystem reconciling conservation with sustainability and human development.
RICH
biodiversity
"The reserve houses an immense treasure of archaeological, cultural, and biological diversity."
"The region offers numerous outdoor activities for the adventure-seekers."
vaalwater
Limpopo, south africa
The charming, local village of Vaalwater is situated just 16 km south of the Khulu Khulu Reserve.
A 25 minute drive from our reserve will take you into the heart of the village which is located on the southern edge of the rugged Waterberg Mountain Range - 'water mountains' in Afrikaans.
The village forms part of the commercial municipality of Modimolle, which means 'The Spirits have eaten' after the tradition of offering food to the forefathers' spirits by tribes in the area.
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The Mokolo River is also nearby. The region is known for its export grapes and soft fruits as well as other importent products such as peanuts and maize.
Vaalwater is a popular jumping-off point for travels to the Waterberg Massif and Botswana, itself becoming a minor destination for tourism. There are a variety of craft, art, and gift shops, as well as cafes and restaurants.
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Even though it has a small population, Vaalwater is growing thanks to a variety of game, nature reserves, accommodation and working farms that are developing in the region.
PLACES TO VISIT
The Black Mamba Art Gallery
A pleasant bistro and arts & craft complex, The Black Mamba is a renowned gathering spot in Vaalwater.
The shop is a great outlet for unusual, funky and original African arts and crafts from all over the continent. It also has books, clothing, earthy décor and small gifts.
Bush Stop Café
The Bush Stop Café is a great place to enjoy a relaxing cappucino in the shady and peaceful garden. This is also the perfect place for travelers who need to relax and take a break and eat some wholesome food with great breakfasts on offer and freshly prepared lunches including salads from their herb garden!.
