Tourism Information
Polokwane Tourism 015 290 2010
Fax 015 290 2009
Polokwane, capital of the Limpopo, is the largest metropolitan complex in the north and a major economic centre. Its proximity to the neighbouring countries of Botswana, Zimbabwe, Mozambique and Swaziland, as well as its convenient distance from the Kruger National Park and Magoebaskloof makes it a perfect gateway and good destination in itself.
The town was established in 1886 after the Voortrekkers had to seek a healthier and safer area south of the Soutpansberg Mountains and Piet Joubert found the highland plateau above the town of Mokopane ideal. It soon became an important staging point for destinations to the north. When gold was discovered at Eersteling in 1871, the economy of the town grew and flourished.
In earlier times the open grasslands and hills of the central region were inhabited by nomadic tribes. The Zulu general Mzilikazi, who fled from the Zulu King Shaka, will have travelled through the area on his way north to establish a kingdom in Bulawayo.
Although it is about 120 years old, Polokwane is a fast-growing and modern city, given its proximity to Gauteng and the rich agricultural district surrounding it. It is a lively city with a good infrastructure and amenities. It offers many different attractions with a number of museums and historical sites presenting the history and cultural heritage of the northern territory.
It is also a city of art and culture. Apart from its extensive art collection, the city has more public sculptures per capita in its parks than anywhere else in South Africa.
