26/10/2023
Thohoyandou
Thohoyandou, meaning ‘head of elephant’ in tshiVenda, is the proud heart of the VhaVenda people.
The former capital of the independent homeland of the Republic of Venda, Thohoyandou is situated in the Vhembe Region of the Limpopo Province, South Africa. Located in the South of Vhembe district, Thohoyandou is on the main road between Louis Trichardt and the Kruger National Park.
With banana plantations, subtropical fruit, to***co, and maize lands, Thohoyandou is the lush agricultural center of the Vhembe region
Attractions and activities in the area include Big Tree (the largest baobab in the country), Dzata Ruins and Museum of the Drum, Kokwane Prehistoric Footprints, Lake Funduzi, Lwamondo Hill, Mphaphuli Cycad Reserve, Phiphidi Falls and Guvhukuvhu Pool, Thathe Vondo Forest, Thulamela (historical site with evidence of indigenous smelting of gold), Tshatshingo Potholes, Tshimbupfe (archaeological site containing iron furnaces).
The Punda Maria Gate entrance to the Kruger National Park is approximately 1 ½ hours drive away.
Royal Kruger Baobab Route
The name is derived from the name of the Lodge, the Kruger National Park and the mighty Baobab trees found along the route.
The 275 Km route starts from Royal Hills Lodge and Spa right into the Kruger National Park though Punda Maria Gate exiting via Pafuri Gate, proceeding through the scenic baobab trail towards Sagole back to Thohoyandou where the road lead to Phiphidi waterfalls
The Kruger National Park
The Punda Maria Gate is approximately 40km from the lodge. Travelling a further 10km, you will reach the Punda Maria Camp, in the northernmost region of the Kruger National Park.
The Camp is in the Sandveld Region, which is often described as the botanical garden