Things To Do
in Polokwane
Polokwane, located in the Limpopo province of South Africa, is known for its vibrant culture and rich history. The city is a hub of economic activity, with a bustling central business district and thriving markets. Polokwane is surrounded by beautiful natural landscapes, including the Polokwane Game Reserve and the Makapansgat Valley.
The city also boasts a diverse culinary scene, offering a mix of traditional South African dishes and international cuisine.
- "Ngiyabonga" - Thank you
- "Unjani?" - How are you?
- "Sawubona" - Hello
- "Kodwa" - But
- "Ngicela" - Please
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $30 - $100
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $20
- ☕ Coffee: $1.50 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $2
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $25 - $60
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $20 - $40
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Visit the Polokwane Game Reserve to experience local wildlife and stunning landscapes. Take a guided tour to learn about the ecology of the area.
Explore the Polokwane Art Museum to appreciate local artists and their works. Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a nearby café.
Dinner at a traditional South African restaurant, savoring local dishes. Take a relaxing stroll through the city center to soak up the evening ambiance.
Start at the Bakone Malapa Open-Air Museum to learn about the indigenous Bakone people. Engage in interactive exhibits showcasing their heritage.
Head to the Polokwane Bird and Reptile Park for an up-close experience with exotic birds and reptiles. Enjoy a picnic lunch among the serene environment.
Return to the city for a casual dinner at a local eatery. Wind down with a movie at a nearby cinema, catching the latest releases.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage and history
- Diverse economic opportunities, especially in agriculture and commerce
- Beautiful natural surroundings and access to wildlife parks
- Growing infrastructure and accessibility
- Community-oriented with various local events and festivals
- High crime rates in certain areas
- Limited public transport options
- Economic disparities and unemployment in some sectors
- Poor road conditions in some rural areas
- Environmental challenges, such as pollution and waste management
Best Activities in Polokwane
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Enjoy a thrilling zipline adventure through the stunning forests of Magoebaskloof.
Explore the reserve on a game drive and spot a variety of wildlife including rhinos, giraffes, and antelopes.
Hike through the picturesque forest to reach the beautiful Debegeni Waterfall for a refreshing swim and scenic picnic.
Tours
Uncover the best of Polokwane with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Polokwane
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers beautiful views of the African bush and wildlife, great for photo opportunities
A historic building featuring Victorian architecture, offers picturesque surroundings for photo opportunities
Has scenic gardens and water features, ideal for capturing beautiful moments
Food in Polokwane
Polokwane Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
This air-dried meat snack, often made from beef or game meat, is a South African staple. It's a great protein-packed snack and can be found in local markets, butcheries, and supermarkets throughout Polokwane.
Must-Try!
A traditional dish consisting of maize porridge (pap) served with grilled meat (vleis). It's a hearty and filling meal that can be enjoyed at many local eateries and township taverns.
A local specialty, chotlo is a flavorful stew made with tripe, beans, and sometimes potatoes. It's best sampled at traditional African restaurants and market stalls.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Polokwane better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling market where you can find an array of street food vendors offering dishes like vetkoek (fried dough bread filled with various savory or sweet fillings), boerewors rolls, and traditional 'smiley' (grilled sheep's head). It's a great place to experience local flavors and mingle with the community.
Located in the Seshego township, this market is a hub of activity with numerous street food stalls selling dishes like grilled meats, mogodu (tripe), and other traditional African foods. It's a vibrant and authentic food experience.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Polokwane, it is important to greet people with a handshake and maintain eye contact. It is also customary to use the appropriate greeting based on the time of day, such as 'Dumela' (good morning) or 'Dumelang' (good afternoon).
Respect for elders is highly valued in Polokwane. It is important to address older individuals with their appropriate title, such as 'Mma' for a woman and 'Rra' for a man, followed by their surname, as a sign of respect.
It is important to be mindful and respectful of local customs and traditions in Polokwane. This may include participating in traditional ceremonies, respecting sacred sites, and following local customs during social interactions.
Safety
Tipping in Polokwane
Ensure a smooth experience
In Polokwane, South Africa, it is common to tip service workers such as waiters, taxi drivers, and hotel staff. The typical tipping amount is between 10-15% of the total bill.
Payment in Polokwane, South Africa, is commonly done using cash, credit/debit cards, and mobile payment methods. Many businesses accept card payments, but it's always a good idea to carry some cash for smaller vendors and transportation.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring is a great time to visit Polokwane as the weather is warm and pleasant. The city is in full bloom with colorful flowers, and outdoor activities are enjoyable.
Summer is the peak tourist season in Polokwane with hot and humid weather. Visitors can enjoy outdoor adventures, wildlife viewing, and cultural events during this time.
Autumn in Polokwane brings cooler temperatures and the landscape begins to change color. It's an ideal time for outdoor activities and exploring the natural beauty of the region.
Winter in Polokwane is mild and dry, making it a great time to explore the city and its surroundings. Visitors can enjoy cultural festivals, traditional foods, and indoor attractions.
Polokwane at Night
Hiking in Polokwane
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A well-known nature reserve offering various hiking trails through lush vegetation and wildlife.
Experience scenic hiking trails with beautiful views and diverse flora and fauna, located a short drive from Polokwane.
A popular hiking route that offers a moderate challenge and showcases the natural beauty of the surrounding area.
Located near Mokopane, this reserve offers a range of trails, perfect for hiking enthusiasts looking for adventure.
One of the largest canyons in the world, offering breathtaking views and challenging hikes, about 1.5 hours from Polokwane.
Aiports
How to reach Polokwane by plane.
The largest international airport in South Africa, located approximately 330 km from Polokwane, servicing both domestic and international flights.
The primary airport serving Cape Town, located approximately 1,150 km from Polokwane, known for domestic and international flights.
Located approximately 600 km from Polokwane, serves Durban and international destinations.
Situated about 850 km from Polokwane, it services access to Port Elizabeth and various international routes.
Located approximately 345 km from Polokwane, this airport serves domestic flights and some limited international services.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority demographic group in Polokwane, comprising various ethnic sub-groups predominantly from the Sotho, Tsonga, and Venda cultures.
A smaller but significant demographic group, often with mixed ancestry, including Khoisan and European heritage.
A relatively smaller demographic group, primarily of European descent, including Afrikaners and English-speaking South Africans.
A minor demographic group, primarily consisting of descendants of indentured laborers and traders from India.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is extremely popular in Polokwane, with many local clubs and vibrant support from the community. The city has a passionate fan base and hosts various matches.
Rugby is another major sport in Polokwane, with local teams participating in regional leagues. It enjoys significant support and community engagement.
Cricket has a strong following in Polokwane, with local leagues and schools playing a vital role in grassroots participation.
Netball is a popular sport among women in Polokwane, with various clubs and schools actively participating in competitions.
Athletics is widely promoted in schools and community events, with local athletes participating in regional and national competitions.
Basketball is growing in popularity, especially among the youth, with several local courts and programs being established.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Polokwane.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While traditional South African cuisine often centers around meat, many restaurants in Polokwane offer vegetarian and vegan-friendly dishes. Look for options like butternut soup, vegetable curries, and hearty salads.
Several cafes and eateries in Polokwane cater to gluten-free diets, providing dishes such as grilled fish with vegetables, rice-based meals, and gluten-free desserts.