Things to Do in Bela Bela (Warmbaths)

Situated close to the beautiful Nylsvley Nature Reserve, Koro Creek Golf Estate offers a wonderful escape for families and golfers alike. Visitors can enjoy close encounters with wildlife on the 18-hole golf course or the game reserve – there is something for everyone. Warm, sunny winters and fantastic summers provide year round opportunities for golfing and other pursuits in a malaria-free playground. The 860-hectare nature reserve alongside the estate is going to be incorporated into the estate allowing wildlife to roam free. Koro Creek Golf Course is a 6825 metre par 72 championship course featuring four tee boxes on every hole to accommodate every level of golfer. Fairways narrow as you enter onto the green - be sure to bring your putting game! The clubhouse has all the amenities including a restaurant and all the amenities that members and visiting golfers require.

Load up the family and take them to visit Mystic Monkeys & Feathers Wildlife Park on your next holiday. Friendly guides will take you on a fascinating tour of the enclosures where you will learn more about chimpanzees, white lions, tigers, cheetah and 38 playful primate species. The park is also home to numerous colourful exotic birds and lemurs. The park boasts 50 species of lemurs of which 17 are on the endangered species list including the brown, ring-tailed and ruffed lemurs. Mystic Monkeys & Feathers Wildlife Park is open 365 days a year from 9am to 4pm. Guided tours usually take two to three hours. Also on offer are informal play sessions, a curio shop, short game drives and school tours.

For the birds! Twitchers take note – get ready for a birding bonanza when the Nyl River floods the Limpopo wetlands. The birding watching is awesome, particularly in the Nysvley Nature Reserve. Now an internationally renowned RAMSAR site, the 4,000-hectare Nylsvley Conservancy is part of South Africa's largest flood-plain that stretches 70 km from Modimolle to Mokopane. The reserve is home to 72 mammal species, including rare Roan Antelope. High rainfall years bring a mind-boggling 80 000 migratory water birds to the floodplains, with up to 420 recorded species. Nysvley Nature Reserve is a haven for 37 Red-Data species, hence its significance as a RAMSAR site. You can easily spot as many as 365 species in the reserve itself which has five bird hides. The prolific bird life and plant species makes it a great attraction for bird-lovers, researchers and tourists at any time of year. And it’s not all about birding, it’s a great place for a weekend getaway or day outing. There are a few dirt roads for game-viewing, extensive walking, hiking, and mountain biking trails as well as campsites and picnic spots. +27 (0)14 743 1074 www.nylsvley.co.za

A winning combination of golf and the unsurpassed beauty of the Waterberg landscape make playing on Euphoria Golf Course a unique golfing experience. The soothing surroundings in no way diminish the challenging aspects of the Annika Sorenstam-signature 18-hole championship course. Designed to preserve the indigenous fauna and flora, the estate also features wide golf corridors to ensure privacy to golfers and residents alike. Clubhouse facilities are in keeping with the overall world-class experience, offering the elegant Sundowner Deck Restaurant and terrace, perfect for enjoying the stunning views. A nifty cableway links the club house to the mountain estate and restaurant.

If you’re in Vaalwater looking for unusual handmade products made by locals look no further than Kamotsogo Craft Art. Although the artwork is contemporary, inspiration is drawn heavily from numerous African aesthetics and cultures. This wonderful empowerment initiative of the Clive Walker Foundation continues contributing to the meaningful improvement of lives and families within the local community. Originally established in 2006, this social investment plan nurtures employment opportunities and empowers women through the production, marketing and sales of their unique merchandise.

Almost the size of the Kruger National Park, the UNESCO Waterberg Biosphere Reserve has it all. Close encounters with amazing wildlife, vast open spaces, rich biodiversity and the romance of the bushveld contribute to an unforgettable African wilderness experience. This magical part of South Africa offers discoveries as diverse as its visitors – fascinating people and places are all within easy reach. Stretching from Marakele National Park in the south west to Wonderkop Nature Reserve in the north east of Limpopo, the reserve houses an immense treasure of archaeological, cultural, and biological diversity. The small town of Vaalwater serves as the gateway to this UNESCO Biosphere Reserve characterized by undulating hills and endless views. Explore it on foot, horseback or in your vehicle – you won’t forget it!

Popular for weekend getaways, Doorndraai Nature Reserve’s offers decent fishing, birding, hiking, game drives, boating and picnicking. The Doorndraai Dam is part of this 7 000-hectare nature reserve situated on the Sterk River and in the foothills of the Waterberg. The dam is a popular largemouth bass angling site with a camping site, chalets and a conference centre. It’s also home to a wide variety of wildlife and 300 species of birds. Twenty-three species of raptor have been recorded in the reserve. Look out for Osprey, resident African Fish Eagle, Martial Eagle, Verreauxs' Eagle and Tawny Eagle. Many waders, herons, ducks and Common Whimbrel can be seen on the open shoreline.

Legend Golf and Safari Resort promises an exceptional golf and safari experience featuring a high vantage point upon which visitors may tee off! This golf and safari resort offers a 19-hole course amidst wildlife, malaria-free bushveld surroundings, and stunning panoramic views particularly of the Hangklip Mountain. Eighteen of the world’s top golfers were selected to add their design expertise to the signature course, contributing to the allure and spirit of golf in Limpopo. Situated in the Waterberg region of the Limpopo Province of South Africa, Legend Golf sets new standards for golfing and wildlife viewing. The championship golf course includes a golf academy with driving range, recreational facilities, wellness centre, sports complex and conference centre.

Lying in the heart of the Waterberg UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, the privately owned Entabeni Game Reserve promises an exciting wilderness experience for discerning travellers. Here you can take a scenic helicopter flip, gaze at the stars in the observatory, go on guided horse trails, visit the local Pedi village, enjoy sunset lake cruises and a variety of wildlife viewing activities. Known as ‘The Place of the Mountain’, this malaria-free safari conservancy has an astonishing five ecosystems. Knowledgeable and friendly guides take visitors on fascinating excursions identifying a diverse array of interesting birds and animals – so much more than the usual Big Five sightings! Explore the grasslands and stunning craggy escarpment, drive down between the cliffs past bubbling streams and down to the balmy sand wetlands – you definitely won’t get bored. And at less than a three-hour drive from Johannesburg, the reserve’s proximity and lack of the nasty anopheles mosquito makes it an alluring destination.

At just a three-hour drive from OR Tambo International Airport, Welgevonden Game Reserve is a sought after Big Five game reserve bordering the Marekele National Park in the Waterberg Biosphere. What makes it even more attractive is that it is malaria-free. Meaning ‘well found’, Welgevonden is a mountainous place of spectacular scenery, abundant wildlife and awesome birdlife that captures the essence of true wilderness. Home to white rhino, lion, leopard, elephant and buffalo, the reserve also has cheetah, sable, gemsbok, giraffe, bush pig, pangolin, warthog, black-backed jackals and many antelope species. At night you have the chance of spotting rare and unusual animals such as brown hyena, aardwolf and aardvark. With over 250 bird species including rare blue cranes, the reserve is also a birder’s dream. Welgevonden also features some superb, delicate Bushman rock paintings. Visit Welgevonden for amazing wildlife viewing opportunities, an authentic wilderness experience and a wonderful sense of the spirit of Africa.

Cycle back in time to an immaculately restored, yet living and growing community that is as much about the future as the past. Cullinan makes up part of the Dinokeng Region, which is famous for giving visitors the opportunity to see all that Africa has to offer in a day.Cullinan is 30 minutes drive from Tshwane (Pretoria) and less than an hour from Johannesburg. Clusters of original stone miner's cottages, a turn-of-the-century railway station and authentic buildings flank the jacaranda and oak tree lined avenue. The semidetached houses in Oak Avenue are built of local stone in 1904 to provide housing for the mine employees.The Edwardian setting of the Cullinan mining town has a proud involvement in heritage and conservation matters. The Second World War POW's left behind amazing art works and architectural reminders of their stay in Cullinan and the surrounding areas. The largest allied prisoner of war camp in Africa was established here and the graves of 264 Italian prisoners are still preserved.The famous South African architect, Sir Herbert Baker, also left his mark on the village, as he designed the beautiful St George's Anglican stone church in Oak Avenue. Cullinan Mine has always placed a high priority on nature conservation. Cullinan Mine also has its own game farm that conserves numerous plants, animals (including white rhinos), insects and birds.

Giddy up with Cullinan Adventure Outrides. Horses are suitable for beginners to more experienced riders. Rides usually take an hour and a half for a maximum of 10 people. Book your outrides and stay at Cullinan Backpackers.

One of the top ten zoos in the world, The National Zoological Gardens of South Africa offers animal lovers a staggering 9 500 animals to view. Situated on 85 hectares in the heart of ‘Jacaranda City’, it’s the largest zoo in the country and is home to mammals, birds, fish, reptiles and amphibians alike. The spacious grounds house some rare species of antelope, white rhino, elephant, hippos, lions, cheetah, gorillas and even bats!Over 600 000 people visit the zoo every year, and there’s so much to see. It’s worth enquiring about what tours are on offer. You can hire a golf cart or take the Zoo Choo-Choo Tractor Train if you’re not up for the six kilometres of walkways. For a birds-eye view, take the cableway and ride above the zoo and on both sides of the Apies River.The largest inland marine aquarium in the country, The Aquarium and Reptile Park, also form part of the zoo facility. Kids will love watching the endangered Komodo dragon, ragged-tooth sharks and other weird and highly poisonous beasties.Dotted around the zoo are a number of picnic spots where you can relax under giant shade trees. Braai facilities are available at the picnic area on the banks of the Apies River. You can also opt for a sit down meal at the restaurant.Visiting hours:Open seven days a week, 365 days a year. Tickets are sold from 8:30 to 16:30 daily and the zoo closes at 17:30.

Pretoria has a complex and fascinating past. Initially the capital of the independent Boer republic of the Transvaal, it moved on to became one of the three capitals of South Africa and an international symbol of Apartheid.Then the turnabout came in 1994 with the jubilant inauguration of former President Nelson Mandela, South Africa's first democratically elected President. Suddenly the Union Buildings transformed from a symbol of white, supremacist domination to one of genuine unity in this beautiful and culturally rich city.The Union Buildings still form the official seat of South Africa's government and houses The Presidency as well as the Department of Foreign Affairs. Built at the loftiest point of South Africa's capital city, the elegant buildings preside like an ancient temple adorning and presiding over the city it governs. Designed by Sir Herbert Baker, the building was completed in 1913. Herbert Baker chose Meintjieskop for the site because it reminded him of the acropolises of Greece and Asia Minor. The overall design is influenced by the neo-classic architecture of the Italian Renaissance as well as Cape Dutch.

Legends is Pretoria’s hottest gay nightclub. Not only does Legends boast the latest music on its large dancefloor and smaller second funky floor - complete with AV screens and projectors - but it also offers all the comforts and style of cutting-edge contemporary clubbing. And the finest in DJ talent ensures that you experience only the best house music. Legends is open every Saturday, Friday, Wednesday and Sunday night.

Situated in the heart of Pretoria, the South African State Theatre is much more than just a complex of theatres hosting world-class shows ranging from Opera, Ballet, Musical, Drama, Cabaret and Children's Theatre. Functioning as a receiving house this unusual, stylish, centrally situated venue can accommodate almost any performance, function or special event. It offers a variety of exciting venues for performances, conferences, festivals, product launches, fashion shows, film festivals, weddings, parties, matric dances and farewells, lunches and dinners.

Situated in the heart of Pretoria is Duncan Yard, a distinctive boutique lifestyle centre and must-do lunch spot. Here visitors amble through quaint stores and eateries along cobbled stone walkways and castle turrets. The alfresco centre provides a unique shopping experience with over 15 restaurants and shops. Its picturesque location is reminiscent of a rustic Italian village and provides a refreshingly exotic experience. Renowned for the popular Papa’s Real Food restaurant and the Deli on Duncan’s delectable array of delicacies, Duncan Yard also features an enticing selection of stores offering boutique clothing, jewellery, indoor and outdoor décor, and carpet and florist services. Both the beauty and hair salon are idyllically situated for complete relaxation and pampering. Trading Hours: Monday to Friday 09:00 – 17:00 Saturday 09:00 – 15:00 Sunday 10:00 – 14:00 Public Holidays 10:00 – 14:00 www.duncanyard.co.za +27 (0) 12 362 2224 / 4054

One of South Africa’s top stadiums with a seating capacity for 50 000 people, Loftus Versfeld Stadium is situated in South Africa’s capital Pretoria (Tshwane). It was one of the 2010 FIFA World Cup venues, hosting five first-round matches and one second-round match. Home turf of the Premier Soccer League dynamos Mamelodi Sundowns, the Blue Bulls Currie Cup rugby team and the Bulls Super 12 rugby squad, it was also one of the primary venues for the 1995 Rugby World Cup. In addition to being one of South Africa’s premier sporting venues, Loftus Versfeld is also a thriving venue for big concerts. Tshwane, Pretoria, "Jacaranda City," ePitoli - this graceful city has enormous appeal, a fascinating history and is now a symbol of South Africa's true unity. It's an elegant, quiet city in complete contrast to its bustling neighbour, Johannesburg, which is just 50 kilomtres apart and less than an hour's drive away.

The University of Pretoria, fondly called ‘Tucs’ by students, is ranked as the leading research university in South Africa. Also one of the top three universities in the country, it draws a large number of new students every year, with 39 000 students enrolling in 2010.The university has six campuses and numerous operational sites such as the Pretoria Academic Hospital. The Hatfield campus has a beautiful setting and attractive historic buildings, making it one of the more striking universities in South Africa.Visitors usually make their way to the Ou Lettere building to view the amazing archaeological finds from Mapungubwe. Here you can see the gold rhinoceros, jewellery, figurines, pottery and other artefacts at least 700 years old.The Hatfield campus has contributed to the reputation of Hatfield as the most vibrant suburb of Pretoria with numerous trendy cafés, bars and restaurants.

The University of South Africa, or UNISA as it is commonly known, is a distance education university with the main campus and headquarters in Pretoria. You cannot miss the gigantic, mind-blowingly ugly buildings.With over 200 000 students enrolled, it is highly regarded and is one of the largest universities on the planet.Founded in 1873, UNISA was initially an examining agency for Oxford and Cambridge universities as well as something of a ‘mother ship’ to other establishing universities in South Africa. In 1946 it became a distance education university, offering certificate, diploma and degree courses up to doctoral level. It was able to remain interracial during the years of apartheid largely because it was a distance education university. Famous students and professors include:Nelson Mandela, former President of South AfricaDesmond Tutu, South African cleric and political activistRobert Mugabe, current president of ZimbabweAhmed Kathrada, South African politician and anti-apartheid activistTokyo Sexwale, South African businessman and former politician, anti-apartheid activist, and political prisonerWalter Battiss, South African abstract painter and creator of the quirky 'Fook Island' concept, UNISA Professor of Fine Art.