Polokwane Travel Guide: Your Ultimate Limpopo Adventure

Planning Your Trip to Polokwane

Country: South Africa
Province: Limpopo
Timezone: GMT+2
Languages spoken: Sepedi, English, Afrikaans, Tsonga, Venda
Currency: South African Rand (ZAR)
Weather/Climate: Get an idea of what to expect throughout the year:
- January: Hot, average temperature 26°C (79°F)
- April: Mild, average temperature 22°C (72°F)
- July: Cool and dry, average temperature 16°C (61°F)
- October: Warm, average temperature 24°C (75°F)

Discovering Polokwane: A City Overview

Polokwane, meaning “Place of Safety,” is the vibrant capital of Limpopo Province. It’s a city where modern life meets the stunning natural beauty of South Africa. Think of it as a gateway to the northern reaches of the country and beyond. Polokwane has a fascinating history, especially its role in the Anglo-Boer War. Today, it’s all about diverse experiences – from amazing wildlife encounters and outdoor adventures to exploring local culture and enjoying some retail therapy. Its location and good infrastructure make it a popular spot for both business and leisure travelers. With a friendly vibe, Polokwane offers a genuine South African experience and a peek into the heart of Limpopo. It’s definitely one of the fastest growing cities here, with a really interesting mix of cultures.

When to Visit Polokwane: The Best Time to Go

Seasonal pros and cons:
- Spring (September-November): The weather is great, perfect for being outside. Plus, the wildflowers are blooming!
- Autumn (March-May): Mild temperatures and fewer crowds. Ideal for spotting wildlife.
- Summer (December-February): It gets hot and humid, with the occasional thunderstorm. But everything is lush and green.
- Winter (June-August): Dry and cool, the best time for wildlife viewing as the vegetation is less dense.

Getting To and Around Polokwane: Flights, Visa & Transportation

Flights: Polokwane International Airport (PTG) handles domestic flights. If you’re coming from abroad, you’ll usually fly into Johannesburg’s OR Tambo International Airport (JNB) and then catch a connecting flight or drive to Polokwane.
Trains: Passenger train service to Polokwane is limited.
Visa details: Make sure to check the South African Department of Home Affairs website for the latest visa requirements based on your nationality.
Airport transfers: Airport shuttle services and car rentals are readily available at Polokwane International Airport.

Polokwane’s Rich History: A Fun Fact

Did you know? During the Second Boer War, Polokwane, then called Pietersburg, was the last capital of the Boer Republic, Transvaal. It even served as the seat of government for a while after Pretoria fell to the British.

Famous Faces From Polokwane

Cassper Nyovest (Rapper) calls Polokwane home!

Top 10 Attractions in Polokwane: Must-See Spots

Polokwane Game Reserve – A huge wildlife reserve where you can see animals and go bird watching.
- Address: Roodepoort Road, Polokwane
Bakone Malapa Northern Sotho Open-Air Museum – Experience the traditional lifestyle and culture of the Bakone people in this living museum.
- Address: On the R37 Road to Burgersfort, Polokwane
Zwakala Brewery – Sample unique African-flavored beers with tours and tastings at this craft brewery.
- Address: Plot 37, Leeukuil Farm, Roodepoort, Polokwane
Meropa Casino & Entertainment World – Try your luck at the casino or enjoy restaurants and live shows.
- Address: N1 North, Polokwane
Polokwane Bird and Reptile Park – Get up close to a diverse collection of bird and reptile species.
- Address: Corner of Grobler and Dorp Street, Polokwane
Irish House Museum – Explore Irish and Afrikaaner history from the 1800s.
- Address: 78 Burger Street, Polokwane
Chuene Crocodile Farm – See these fascinating aquatic reptiles up close.
- Address: Polokwane
Cheune Dam – A large dam that is used for recreational purposes.
- Address: Polokwane
The African Roots Adventure and Backpackers Lodge – An adventure activity center and backpackers lodge.
- Address: Polokwane
Polokwane Art Museum – Discover local and African art.
- Address: Library Gardens, Corner Hans van Rensburg and Bodenstein streets, Polokwane

Polokwane’s Hidden Gems: Off the Beaten Path

Moletjie Nature Reserve – A smaller, less crowded reserve with hiking trails and pretty views.
- Address: Near Ga-Molete village, outside Polokwane
Peter Mokaba Stadium Tour – Take a tour to see behind the scenes of this FIFA 2010 World Cup stadium.
- Address: Polokwane

Local Festivals & Events in Polokwane

Marula Festival – Celebrate the marula fruit harvest with traditional music, dance, and crafts.
Polokwane Royal Show – An annual agricultural show featuring livestock, exhibitions, and entertainment.

Day Trips & Nearby Attractions From Polokwane

Magoebaskloof – A scenic area with forests, waterfalls, and great hiking (about 1 hour 30 minutes drive).
Tzaneen – A subtropical town famous for its tea and avocado farms (about 1-hour drive).
Mapungubwe National Park – A UNESCO World Heritage Site with ancient sites and amazing wildlife (around 3 hours drive).

Picture-Perfect Polokwane: Photography Spots & Insta-Worthy Places

Polokwane Game Reserve at sunset – Capture incredible golden hour shots of wildlife.
Bakone Malapa cultural village – Photograph the traditional buildings and cultural displays.
Magoebaskloof waterfalls – Capture the stunning beauty of the waterfalls.

Where to Stay & Move Around in Polokwane

Recommended Length of Stay

Aim for 2-3 days to explore Polokwane and its surroundings.

Top Places to Stay

Budget-Friendly Options

Tudor Lodge
- Address: 40 Hans van Rensburg Street, Polokwane
SleepOver Polokwane
- Address: 63A Dahl Street, Polokwane

Mid-Range Hotels

Garden Court Polokwane
- Address: Thabo Mbeki Street, Polokwane
Fusion Boutique Hotel
- Address: 4 Schoeman Street, Polokwane
Park Inn by Radisson Polokwane
- Address: Corner of Thabo Mbeki and Burger Street, Polokwane

Luxury Hotels

Ivory Lodge
- Address: Roodepoort Road, Polokwane
Protea Hotel Ranch Resort
- Address: N1 South, Polokwane
The Polokwane Royal
- Address: 61A Biccard St, Polokwane

Getting Around the City: Transportation Options

Public transport: Limited public bus service.
Taxis: Available, but it’s best to agree on a fare beforehand.
Car rental: Recommended if you want to explore the surrounding areas.
Walking: Good for getting around the city center.

Essential Tips for Visiting Polokwane: Packing, Apps & Safety

What to Pack

Light clothes for the warm weather.
Comfy shoes for walking.
Sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses.
Insect repellent.
A light jacket or sweater for cooler evenings.

Useful Apps for Your Trip

Google Maps (For getting around)
TripAdvisor (For local tips and reviews)

Local Safety Tips & Cultural Etiquette

Be aware of your surroundings, especially at night.
Keep your valuables safe.
Respect local customs and traditions.
Ask before taking pictures of people.
Bargaining is fine at markets, but be respectful.

Polokwane’s Food Scene: Restaurants, Dishes & Nightlife

Top Restaurants in Polokwane

Ocean Basket – A popular seafood restaurant chain.
- Address: Savannah Mall, Polokwane
Cubana Latino Cafe and Lounge – Enjoy South American cuisine and a lively atmosphere.
- Address: Savannah Mall, Polokwane

Must-Try Local Dishes

Mopani worms – A local delicacy, often dried or fried. (Try it if you dare!)
Pap and vleis – A classic South African dish with maize porridge and grilled meat.

Nightlife & Entertainment

Meropa Casino – Catch live shows and enjoy the entertainment.
- Address: N1 North, Polokwane
Cubana Latino Cafe and Lounge – A popular spot for drinks and a good time.
- Address: Savannah Mall, Polokwane

Souvenirs & Shopping: What to Buy in Polokwane

Savannah Mall – Find a variety of local handicrafts and souvenirs.
- Address: Thabo Mbeki Street, Polokwane