Africa Adventure

Mapungubwe National Park

Mapungubwe National Park nestles on the border between South Africa, Botswana and Zimbabwe, where the Limpopo and Shashe Rivers meet in the Limpopo Province. As well as being rich in natural beauty and wildlife, the parkland plays an important role in South Africa’s cultural history and, as a result, is a National Heritage Site. In 2003, two years after it achieved National Heritage status, it was declared a World Heritage Site. The park itself was only opened in 2004.
The history of the area dates back to 900 AD, when it was inhabited by an advanced Iron Age community, which, it has been proved, traded with Egypt, India and China. The community prospered significantly between 1200 and 1270 AD, after which it appeared to drop off the face of the earth. It was only when archaeologists discovered the famous golden rhino, which was made of delicately carved wood covered in gold foil, and a gold sceptre and bowl that the area was placed once again on the map. The artifacts are on display at the Mapungubwe Museum at the University of Pretoria.
In terms of wildlife, Mapungubwe offers big five viewing opportunities, as well hyenas, crocodiles and hippos and a variety of antelope. There are over 400 bird species, including tropical boubou, pel’s fishing owl and kori bustard. There are also unique sandstone formations, mopane woodlands and a riverine forest, which offers guided tree-top tours. Other activities include guided tours to the archaeological and cultural sites; self-guided trails; eco routes; birding trips and night drives.