Mapungubwe National Park

Mapungubwe landscape over the Limpopo valley
Photo: Bernard Dupont / CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

At the confluence of the Limpopo and Shashe rivers, where South Africa, Botswana and Zimbabwe meet, Mapungubwe is a UNESCO World Heritage Site protecting the remains of a sophisticated 13th-century African kingdom alongside dramatic sandstone formations, riverine forest and baobabs. Elephant, leopard and lion roam the park, making it a rare combination of deep history, striking scenery and genuine wildlife.

Ratings

Wildlife Density: ★★★☆☆    Infrastructure: ★★★☆☆    Photography: ★★★★☆
Adventure: ★★★★☆    Exclusivity: ★★★★☆    Value for Money: ★★★★☆    Scenery: ★★★★★

Location: Far northern Limpopo; near Musina & Alldays; SA–Botswana–Zimbabwe tri-border
Key wildlife: Elephant, leopard, lion, white rhino, eland; rich birdlife
Best for: History & culture, scenery, self-drive, birders
Best time: April–September (dry, cooler)

More about this reserve will be added here over time.