TL;DR - Our version of "I'm not reading all that, *SparkNotes pls.”
Embark on a festive road trip from Johannesburg to Limpopo for stunning scenery, cultural experiences, and outdoor adventures.
- Routes:some text
- The N1 is fast, with scenic bushveld views and stops like Peet Se Padstal and Mologa River Lodge.
- The R101 is more scenic, featuring small-town charm, wildlife, and hidden gems like Thaba ya-Metsi Country Estate.
- Highlights in Limpopo:some text
- Polokwane: Cultural museums (e.g., Bakone Malapa), game reserves, and family-friendly attractions like the BouncyCroc Crocodile Farm.
- Bela-Bela: Relax at hot springs, try cultural tours, or visit conservation centres for elephants and cheetahs.
- Magoebaskloof: Enjoy ziplining, canopy tours, hiking, and culinary delights like artisanal cheese and craft beer.
- Hidden gems: Explore the Wolkberg Wilderness Area, Modjadji Cycad Reserve, and Blouberg Nature Reserve, home to rare wildlife and breathtaking landscapes.
- Essentials: Prepare for the 4-hour drive with car checks, snacks, cash, sun protection, and a plan for accommodations.
It's time to escape the hustle and bustle of Joburg’s streets, but where should you head?
When you think about road-tripping through South Africa, Cape Town, the coasts of KZN, and the Eastern Cape are usually the first places that come to mind.
What if we told you that the trek from Johannesburg to Limpopo is equally spectacular?
North of Jozi's towering skyscrapers lie natural wonders, a deep sense of connection with the environment, and areas of deep relaxation to unwind. Oh, and remember the cultural spots to understand the area better. All of these quite literally define the concept of chilled vibes—Limpopo.
Take your first step towards a historical adventure in one of the many museums found in Polokwane, and be amazed at the majesty of our natural environment in places like Magoebaskloof.
And after all that exhilarating adventuring, why not relax in the hot springs at Bela-Bela? As you can tell, a world of fun, relaxation and wonder awaits you in Limpopo.
Pre-Travel Checklist: Road Trip Essentials for a Smooth and Fun Journey
There’s much to prepare for your plus-minus 400km drive to your beloved Limpopo destinations. We know you're anticipating this trip, and to make it even better, here are some recommendations on what essentials to pack (and we don’t just mean snacks).
Here’s what to keep in mind on your fun-filled journey.
Car preparations
If you can't imagine 400 km, let us help—the trip is about 4 hours via car, 5 hours via bus, and 1 hour 45 minutes via plane (who knew?). The first thing to do is to make sure your tank is full. Fill up sooner rather than later to avoid waiting 45 minutes to an hour for the next petrol station.
No one wants to walk on the side of the road looking for fuel in the DECEMBER HEAT.
A spare tyre and tools are also needed for any breakdown, ensuring you’re not stranded on the N1 or R101. A family road trip from Johannesburg to Limpopo should run smoothly. Check your tyre pressure, oil, and water at a petrol station near you to avoid ruining your good vibes.
If you're pedantic, schedule your car service at the end of the year to ensure your car is in tip-top condition for any road trip.
Plus, if you have comprehensive car coverage with Pineapple, our 24/7 emergency roadside assistance will make it less painful. Should something terrible happen, such as a flat or burst tyre, dead battery or fuel assist, should you find yourself in trouble.
Plus, our coverage fully covers theft and natural disasters, ensuring peace of mind during your trip.
The essentials
You're human; you need food and water to survive, but let’s be real—we all forget the basics sometimes. A checklist of packing essential items is a lifesaver!
- Cash: How else are you going to pay for your holiday fun? Seriously, though, bring enough for petrol, snacks, and other emergencies, like if your card declines at a tollgate.
- Snacks: A long drive is ahead, so preparing snacks to nibble on during the journey is essential. Don’t forget water; we’re not camels.
- Protection from the elements: This is Limpopo. The sun will be extra friendly to you, whether or not you like it. Sunscreen, hats, and anything that will keep you cool is a must.
- Tech: Bring your charger, phone, and camera to capture all the beautiful moments. Don’t forget that selfie stick, too (that's still a thing, right?).
- Accommodation: You’ll be driving a lot. Along the way, check all accommodation options, such as lodges, hotels, and bed and breakfasts.
Know the drive
Knowing where you’re going before heading there will save you from headache-inducing situations. Google Maps and Waze can help you get to where you want.
Plus, the apps can help you find petrol stations and any venues you can stop to visit along the way. Knowing these will help avoid pitfalls like running out of petrol or heading into unfriendly areas.
Best Routes for a Scenic Drive
Limpopo has so many hidden gems you’d be surprised why the major highway isn’t jam-packed every festive season (well, to be fair, it is at certain times).
Take a look at the different ways to enjoy the mesmerising natural scenery. One is straightforward but filled with enjoyable views, while the other is more scenic.
N1 Route – Straight to Limpopo
The N1 is a major highway connecting Johannesburg with most provinces. This route offers expansive scenery of the South African bushveld, just one of many stunning visuals you’ll encounter on the journey.
Rolling hills and picturesque mountain ranges will make you feel like the main character of a feel-good summer flick.
On your journey, stop by Peet Se Padstal, a charming South African roadside shop serving as a restaurant to take a break.
When you return to the road, the geographical wonders just keep coming. While driving along, you’ll cross the Tropic of Capricorn, allowing you to see the sun directly bathe the landscape overhead (please don’t look directly at it).
While mesmerised by the sun, visit a Rust De Winter accommodation near the N1, such as the Mologa River Lodge. It's a game lodge where you can immerse yourself in the natural world while experiencing top-notch comfort. It's a tad bit on the expensive side, but it offers a memorable experience.
Watch out for the various toll roads on your way to Limpopo. There are five toll road zones before Bela-Bela on the N1 and three more before heading to Polokwane.
R101 Route – For a Scenic Adventure
The N1 may have gorgeous scenery, but the R101 is where you can go off the beaten path. The scenic route from Joburg to Limpopo passes through small towns and villages and is filled with localised experiences.
The beautiful landscapes are nothing to scoff at, too. Sprawling farmlands, hills, and occasional wildlife will make you admire nature in ways you might not have before.
Are folks in the car tired by the longer journey? You’re in luck! The Thaba ya-Metsi Country Estate awaits. Find the lovely place on the R101 headed to Mokopane, which offers luxurious accommodations with a generous side of fun-filled activities to recharge and relax.
Bird-watching? Check. Fishing? Another check. Golfing? Absolutely! Affordable car insurance premiums starting from just R19-ish a day? Pineapple’s got you covered. In all seriousness, the country estate is packed with fun-filled activities; it even comes with a small safari adventure.
If the wilderness bug keeps biting, head to the Buffelsdrift Rust de Winter. The lodge has fun for the whole family and breathtaking wildlife experiences.
When you return to the road, let your curiosity take the wheel and check out smaller local attractions. The R101 is dotted with many stalls and shops.
Must-See Festive Spots in Limpopo
Polokwane
You thought the ride to Limpopo from Johannesburg was amazing? Hold on to your sunscreen because the fun is only getting started. Interesting fact: Polokwane was originally called Pietersburg until the name was changed (Polokwane means “place of safety” in Northern Sotho).
That said, one highlight of the city is the cultural experiences on offer. Polokwane is home to several museums:
- The Bakone Malapa Open-Air Museum offers an enriching look into the traditional lives and cultural essence of the Northern Sotho people.
- The Polokwane Art Museum houses thought-provoking pieces from Venda, Pedi, and Tsonga artists.
- The Hugh Exton Photographic Museum is housed in a Dutch Reformed church from 1890. Visitors can browse over 23,000 negatives and original photos from the photographer, showing Polokwane's appearance from 1892 to 1945.
Art and history can be fantastic, but viewing natural environments teeming with diversified and exciting life can be a lovely breather from all that deep thinking.
Polokwane is home to one of South Africa's largest municipal game reserves, the Polokwane Game Reserve. It has 3,200 hectares of rich, diversified wildlife, 50 animal species, and nearly 300 bird species.
And if that wasn’t enough wildlife for you, the BouncyCroc Crocodile Farm can be found on your way to the city. Imagine safely holding a baby crocodile (yes, we know it’s not your typical fantasy, but hear us out).
Other types of reptiles can be found on the farm. But if that doesn’t tickle your fancy, there are plenty of opportunities for family fun.
You can visit a restaurant, curio shop and a waterpark that includes baby slides, pools and (for the daring) 6m high-speed slides.
Bela-Bela
Polokwane is a phenomenal stop for a Limpopo road trip from Johannesburg, but there’s so much more to this multi-faceted part of the country. So why not head to the serene venues of Bela-Bela for some sublime relaxation?
This area tends to be quite hot, and that's an understatement.
It's so hot that Bela-Bela is home to Forever Resorts Warmbaths, a must-see location home to hot mineral springs. These springs can reach temperatures of 53 degrees Celsius, perfect for melting away all your pains and worries.
If the springs are too hot, you can always participate in exhilarating water-based activities throughout the park, such as fishing and jet skiing.
However, the more culturally inclined can take the Bela-Bela township historic tour. It lets you experience the rich local culture and visit some sweet stalls.
Suppose you didn’t grab a bite to eat while on the tour; the L’abri Farm Shop and Brewery isn’t too far away. The farmers market is filled with lush greenery, good food, and a relaxing atmosphere for you and your family to enjoy.
There are plenty of fun activities in Bela-Bela, but easy-going venues exist here. The Thabo Monate Game Lodge offers guests excellent camping, hiking, and bird-watching opportunities.
The natural landscape of Limpopo will have one word constantly ringing through your mind: adventure.
And why not start a phenomenal one with elephants? In Bela-Bela, you can partake in a hands-on, educational and fun experience learning about the gentle giants.
If elephants are too slow for you, hanging out with some cheetahs may be more up your speed. Limpopo is also home to ZA Cheetah Conservation, a non-profit endangered species breeding centre.
The centre houses numerous endangered and threatened species, including leopards, lions, servals, caracals, African wildcats, wolves, and a Siberian tiger. However, if your focus is primarily on cheetahs, the De Wildt Shingwedzi Cheetah Ranch is a beautiful place to see cheetahs in action.
The beautiful area may have experienced a sad tragedy, but it is one you can’t miss.
Magoebaskloof
Nature lovers will marvel at what this place has to offer. The stunning mountainous region offers visitors a helping mix of relaxation, adventure, and unique experiences.
Because of its elevation, expect activities such as canopy tours and ziplining, which allow you to glide through the lush green roofs. Adrenaline junkies delight! The thrilling fun doesn’t stop there.
The Great Letaba River gorge spoils those looking for a time to unwind and thrill. The area combines hiking, swimming, and cliff jumping for a blood-pumping experience.
For seasoned hikers, routes like the Woodbush Forest Reserve and Cheerio Gardens are right up your alley.
You can walk through fields of azalea, cherry, and apple trees that bloom during spring—a perfect period for a road trip from Johannesburg to Magoebaskloof.
A massive perk of the area is trying things you might not have experienced before…
Cheese lovers, it's your time to shine. The Wegraakbosch Dairy Farm offers a fascinating cheese-making tour you won’t want to miss. Want to expand your culinary experience further? Pop by Blueberry Heights for fresh produce and a delightful café experience.
For those looking for something with a little kick, we know the place for you. Zwakala Brewery is Mahoebaskloof’s first microbrewery. It is home to award-winning beers and its famous Blueberry Gin and Tonic on Tap.
But make sure to avoid drunk driving this festive season—don’t let a poor decision ruin your holiday!
Unknown Limpopo Jewels You Might Miss
It just doesn’t stop, does it? There are more hidden gems to visit in Limpopo this festive season.
The first on the list is the Wolkberg Wilderness Area. Steep gorges and ancient cliffs can be seen as far as the eye can see. But this place's secret sauce revolves around a healthy balance of breathtaking hikes and sublime picnic spots.
Next on your list of less-popular places lies the Modjadji Cycad Reserve, home to “the largest concentration of a single cycad species in the world.” The reserve can be found in the foothills of the blue-green mountains above the Modjadji village near Tzaneen.
The reserve is home to various game species and about 170 bird species.
Next on the list of phenomenal gems is the Blouberg Nature Reserve. Rock climbing is an option for those who need more oomph in their outdoor shenanigans.
Birdwatching, of course, is a must.
The Blouberg cliffs are home to a variety of rare and endangered birds. The nature reserve is home to the biggest breeding colony of Cape vultures in the world, which hosts more than 1,000 breeding pairs.
Limpopo’s Hidden Gems – Perfect for a Festive Adventure
Few dare to brave the tough terrain of Limpopo, but as you can see, you're missing out. The journey from Johannesburg to places like Bela-Bela and Magoebaskloof itself is lovely.
The N1 and R101 can be adventures in themselves, providing scenic views from the comfort of your car. Some stops on the way give you a rich experience of the local scene.
Remember to visit the star attractions, as fun as the drive may be.
Polokwane is home to many museums that will enrich your cultural understanding of some South African cultures, as well as game reserves where you can view the wildlife within the province.
Bela-Bela offers even more relaxation with its hot springs and lodges while allowing animal lovers to interact with elephants individually.
The sprawling green canopies of Magoebaskloof should be next on your bucket list. Here, cliff-jumping and ziplining await your inner adrenaline junkie. But the area offers many ways in which you can chill.
Not heading to Limpopo? Check out our road trip guide to the Eastern Cape. Going further than Limpopo, fear not. Pineapple has you covered.
Nobody does travel advice line Pineapple. Get a Quote today!
The information provided above is for informational purposes only; you should not construe any such information as legal or financial advice.
Pineapple (FSP 48650) is underwritten by Old Mutual Alternative Risk Transfer Insure Limited, a licensed Non-Life Insurer and authorised FSP. T&Cs apply.
Team Pineapple
Team Pineapple comprises our company’s top talents, who are dedicated to creating clear, high-quality content on essential vehicle insurance topics. This diverse group, including actuaries, accountants, data scientists, and insurance professionals across South Africa, collaborates to produce enlightening and empowering articles.
Each piece is thoroughly researched, factually accurate, and rigorously reviewed to ensure quality.
*We say they’re the finest because we want them to keep writing for us!
