Located not far from the confluence of the Ga-Selati River and the Olifants is Phalaborwa, a scenic town that is full of endless possibilities and acts as a popular tourist destination in the Limpopo Province. Different kinds of travelers are accommodated in cool hotels and Airbnb vacation rentals as they experience the best of what Phalaborwa has to offer. Nature lovers and adventure-seekers from all over the world come here to explore attractions such as Grietjie Nature Reserve, Phalaborwa Adventures, Marakapula Reserve, Dinidza River Lodge plus many more. The tranquil, romantic vibe means that honeymooners spend a lot of time mingling with nature. It’s also a melting pot of vibrant cultures, contemporary art, and exciting social activities. Check out below the best things to do in Phalaborwa, South Africa.
1. Be in awe at Mine View Point
It’s not every day that you get to see a hole on the ground that is so huge, astronauts can actually see it from the International Space Station—yup, that’s what Mine View Point is all about! This open cast copper mine opened in 1964 but was eventually closed in 2002. At a whopping 2 kilometers (1.2 miles) wide and 450 meters (1,476 feet) deep, it’s the biggest man-made hole in Africa and the biggest copper mine in the world.
Mine View Point
Address: Phalaborwa, 1390, South Africa
2. Meet Africa's wildlife
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Witness Africa’s wildlife in their natural habitat when you join the fun at Bushbaby Adventures Tours, Safaris & Photography. You can go on a full-day (9-10 hours) or a half-day (6 hours) safari—either way, you’ll be in for an adventure as you get to see and photograph lions, leopards, elephants, rhinos, African Buffalos, and many other wild animals. Overnight tours are also offered where you can experience sleeping in the African wild in either a hut or a tent.
Bushbaby Adventures Tours, Safaris & Photography
Address: 18 Jakkalsbessie St, Phalaborwa, 1390, South Africa
3. Learn the art of pottery at Afrikania Pottery
Inspired by passion and dedication, the idea of this place was sparked by a unique pattern and the golden heart of wanting to lend a helping hand. Natives from different tribes have been united for a long time here, showcasing their art skills while at the same time making a living. The unique pattern was widely employed on clay homestead and cooking utensils to increase their aesthetic value. Today, this mind-blowing technique has evolved and it is now used on a variety of clay works like pots, plates, and other home decorations. You can buy your loved ones some souvenirs and presents here.
Afrikania Pottery
Address: PO Box 1257, Phalaborwa 1390, South Africa
Website: Afrikania Pottery
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4. Sample the creamy liqueur at Amarula Lapa
South Africa is a land blessed with a myriad of mind-blowing attractions. From the lovely Savanna jungles teeming with wildlife to breathtaking waterfalls and enchanting wineries, there are a lot of adventures to keep thrill-seekers and honeymooners on their toes. Located along First Avenue in Phalaborwa is this quiet, peaceful winery - Amarula Lapa - that is known for producing the popular Amarula spirit. There’s no better way of enjoying an outdoor adventure with your loved one than by treating your taste glands to the silky, creamy liqueur.
Amarula Lapa
Address: 4311 First Avenue, R40, Phalaborwa, 1390, South Africa
Website: Amarula Lapa
Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 8am - 5pm; Sat: 8am - 4pm (closed on Sun)
5. Explore the Masorini Village Museum
Perched on the amazing Masorini Hill, approximately about 11 km (6.84 miles) from Phalaborwa entrance, is an ancient village that existed even before the early settlers. If you are looking for an outdoor activity to keep you entertained, pack your hiking gear and visit this Stone Age village. Travel back in time as you learn about ways in which the early man used to survive in the jungle. Priceless materials such as dome-shaped clay furnaces are some of the clues about early man’s activities. Enjoy breathtaking views on top of the hill or find a spot and enjoy a picnic.
Masorini Village Museum
Address: Phalaborwa, South Africa
Website: Masorini Village Museum
6. Play golf at Hans Merensky Golf Course
Are you a golf lover enjoying a vacation in Phalaborwa? Take your loved ones and head to the Hans Merensky Golf Course that borders the famous Kruger National Game reserve. It is a pristine golf course that features a breathtaking, lush green terrain and a romantic atmosphere. Picnickers and love birds come to spend time enjoying the fresh air and the tranquility in the course. Due to its close proximity to the game reserve, you may come across wild animals like giraffes, warthogs, gazelles, and zebras in their natural habitat. Make sure to take some photos for memories.
Hans Merensky Golf Course
Address: 1390 Phalaborwa, South Africa
Website: Hans Merensky Golf Course
7. Enjoy camping at Mtomeni Safari Camp
Discover one of the hidden gems - Mtomeni Safari Camp - in Phalaborwa perched on the banks of the majestic Letaba River, offering a big-five experience near the popular Kruger National Park. Campers, hikers, adventure lovers, and thrill-seekers visit to write a beautiful chapter in their adventure book. There’s a wonderful playground to keep the kids entertained and free parking space for guests. Visitors can access barbeque facilities, a grill, and a beautiful terrace where they can enjoy some quality bonding time. The camp comes with nicely furnished rooms with amazing patios and free toiletries for those who would love to spend some time there.
Mtomeni Safari Camp
Address: Groot Letaba River Rd, South Africa
Website: Mtomeni Safari Camp
8. Traverse the Olifants River on a boat
Are you a water activities enthusiast who is looking to enjoy an out-of-this-world boating activity in Phalaborwa? Pack your picnic gear and drive your family to Olifants River. This is one of the most popular tourist destinations in South Africa. It’s a four-star hotel that offers the opportunity to admire nature while traversing the tranquil waters of the Olifants River. Sit back and relax with your drink and enjoy close to three hours of a boat cruise. Don’t forget to bring your camera because you’ll encounter wildlife such as elephants, giraffes, hippos, and crocodiles in their natural habitat. This trip is worth every penny.
Olifants River Safaris
Address: Plaas Shiela, Phalaborwa, 1309, South Africa
Website: Olifants River Safaris
9. Learn mining techniques at Foskor Mine Museum
Farming, mining, and tourism are some of the major economic activities in the Limpopo Province of South Africa. It’s also a land with a variety of and breathtaking geographical features and that’s why tourists love it so much. In order to appreciate and promote the mining culture and tourism in this place, Foskor Mine Museum was erected. Visitors get to learn the process of mining minerals such as copper and iron ore. There’s also an emphasis on ancient smelting techniques. You’ll get to see “the Big Hole,” a super large opencast mine. You can’t afford to miss this opportunity.
Foskor Mine Museum
Address: Kopper Steet, Phalaborwa, South Africa
Website: Foskor Mine Museum
10. Enjoy dinner at Buffalo Grill & Bistro
Are you planning to take your loved one for a romantic dinner and don’t know the best joint in Phalaborwa? Don’t worry, just visit Buffalo Grill & Bistro and the rest will take care of itself. This is a romantic restaurant nestled in a tranquil, lush green neighborhood along Raasblaar Street. Enjoy a variety of sumptuous South African cuisines that will leave your taste glands tingling. Their colorful menu features a variety of mouthwatering selections such as chips with fried steak egg, yummy burgers, fried rice, liver with onions, pasta, salads, soups, and appetizers. There’s also a great selection of drinks.
Buffalo Grill & Bistro
Address: 1 Raasblaar St, Phalaborwa, 1390, South Africa
Website: Buffalo Grill & Bistro
Opening hours: Mon - Sat: 11am - 9pm; Sun: 11am - 8pm
11. Taste craft whisky at Qualito Craft Distillery
Are you a wine lover yearning to have a glass of the finest South African whisky? Nestled in a scenic place on Potgieter Street in Phalaborwa, this is one of the most popular breweries in the area. Qualito Craft Distillery is famous for producing a variety of the finest craft drinks including gin, whisky, vodka infusions, and vodka crush among others. Spirits are expertly distilled over time in order to produce world-class quality. Confuse your taste glands with a taste of Single Grain Heimer craft whisky or just the Grey Hawk classic craft Gin.
Qualito Craft Distillery
Address: 36 Potgieter St, Phalaborwa, 1390, South Africa
Website: Qualito Craft Distillery
Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 10am - 4pm; Sat: 10am - 3pm (closed on Sun)
12. Get a glimpse of the Big Five with Nandzana Safaris
Enjoy the Big Five experience when you book an exclusive tour of the popular Kruger National Park with Nandzana Safaris. This is a specialized tour and guide company that is nestled in a charming environment on Kwartel Street in Phalaborwa town. The company features day safaris that are shared and only restricted to daytime and custom safaris that come with an exclusive safari vehicle at your preferred time. With an experienced and well-informed tour guide, you will traverse the park viewing animals such as elephants, zebras, giraffes, lions, and rhinos in their natural habitat. Please make sure to take some pictures.
Nandzana Safaris
Address: 19 Kwartel St, Phalaborwa, 1389, South Africa
Website: Nandzana Safaris
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
Explore the hidden gems in Phalaborwa
Whether you are on a vacation with your family, a honeymoon, or on a business trip, the town of Phalaborwa always has something exciting to offer its visitors. From warm hospitality to mind-blowing adventures like exploring the Big Five in a national park, you’ll definitely enjoy an unforgettable experience.
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