Groblersdal

Groblersdal is a farming village in Limpopo just across the border with the province of Mpumalanga, 60 kilometers from the huge Loskop Dam. With a length of 27 kilometers, this dam is the longest dam in the southern hemisphere, the area is 2350 hectares and the dam ensures the irrigation of agriculture in the area. Crops such as citrus fruits, cotton, grapes, tobacco, grain and vegetables are grown. From Pretoria it is about 170 kilometers to Groblersdal, a short 2-hour drive.

Groblersdal is part of the so-called ‘Cultural Heartland’. There are several Ndebele villages in the area that are characterized by the paintings on the houses and the women often wear beaded jewelry. You can also visit the Botshabelo Mission Station with its Ndebele museum near Middelburg (88 km). This area is also interesting because of its history, the Boer War partly took place here and the Boer War route runs through the area. There are several so-called game farms around Groblersdal, but the most famous place to see wildlife is the Loskop Dam Nature Reserve.

The Loskop Dam Nature Reserve is located around the dam and is the habitat of more than 70 different animal species, including three of the Big Five: rhino, leopard and buffalo. Other animals in the reserve are: giraffe, kudu, hippopotamus, moose and many different types of goats. Bird watchers can keep their eyes open for, among others, the osprey, kingfisher, timber hoopoe and bee-eater. The dam is not only popular with bird lovers but also with fishermen. You can go on a boat trip with a guide to spot wildlife or opt for a ‘boat cruise’ at sunset.

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