Makhado

Formerly known as Louis Trichardt South, this town serves as an important commercial and cultural hub in the Limpopo Lowveld. It offers a blend of local hospitality, traditional markets, and access to surrounding wildlife areas.

Things to do

• Musina Border Post Market — Explore the bustling cross-border trading hub where local crafts, fresh produce, and traditional goods are sold by vendors from both South Africa and Zimbabwe.
• Wylies Poort Scenic Drive — Drive through this historic mountain pass offering panoramic views of the Limpopo Lowveld and access to nearby nature reserves and hiking trails.
• Makhado Museum & Cultural Centre — Visit this local museum to learn about the region's history, traditional Venda and Sotho heritage, and the area's colonial past.
• Nandoni Dam — Enjoy fishing, picnicking, and birdwatching at this large water body, a popular spot for both locals and visitors seeking water-based recreation.
• Mapungubwe National Park (day trip) — Visit this UNESCO World Heritage Site approximately 70km away to explore ancient settlement ruins, wildlife, and three-country views where South Africa, Botswana, and Zimbabwe meet.
• Local Craft Markets — Browse traditional Venda beadwork, pottery, wooden carvings, and woven baskets at markets throughout town, supporting local artisans directly.

Food to try

• Limpopo Biltong & Droëwors — Sample locally-cured dried meat specialties that are staples in the Lowveld, often found at markets and local shops with distinctive regional smoking techniques.
• Mopane Worms (Amacimbi) — Try these high-protein caterpillars, a traditional delicacy prepared grilled or in stews, representing authentic Limpopo bush cuisine.
• Sadza with Relish — Enjoy the regional staple of maize meal served with vegetable or meat-based relish, a comfort food central to local dining culture.
• Vetkoek with Savory Filling — Taste fried bread filled with minced meat, onions, and spices, a beloved street food and everyday meal throughout the Lowveld.
• Traditional Venda Pap — Experience creamy maize porridge served with local vegetables, legumes, or butter, reflecting generations of Venda culinary tradition.

Local customs & good to know

• Greet with Respect — Always greet locals with a handshake and acknowledge elders first; Tshivenda or Sesotho greetings are appreciated even if English is widely spoken.
• Visit Markets Early — Arrive at local markets and trading posts in the early morning when selection is best and vendors are most receptive to visitors and conversation.
• Ask Permission for Photography — Always request permission before photographing people, particularly in traditional areas and at cultural events, as this shows respect for local customs.
• Observe Dress Code — Dress modestly when visiting cultural sites and markets; covering shoulders and knees is recommended and shows respect for the predominantly traditional communities.

Nearby

• Dendroceros Gorge — 59 km
• Entabeni Waterfall — 84 km
• Louis Trichardt — 90 km
• Musina — 97 km