The best things to do in North West Province

South Africa’s North West Province is a land of beautiful landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and exciting adventure opportunities.  Located west of Gauteng, it is bordered by Botswana to the north, the Northern Cape to the west, Limpopo to the north-east, and Free State to the south. Also known as South Africa’s ‘platinum province’ due to its extensive underground mineral wealth, North West is also a significant producer of gold, diamonds, and uranium, alongside its renowned platinum output. Here are the best things to do in this diverse region.

1.Hartbeespoort

Hartbeespoort, affectionately known as ‘Harties’ by locals is a popular weekend getaway for locals and tourists. This quaint town lies at the foot of the Magaliesberg mountains, beside the Hartbeespoort Dam, and is a popular retreat for those looking for a mix of adventure and relaxation. The town offers unique attractions like an elephant sanctuary, a cheese farm, and vibrant craft markets. Visitors can also enjoy various water sports on the dam, explore the surrounding nature reserves, or take the Hartbeespoort Aerial Cableway for panoramic views of the area. Hartbeespoort’s blend of natural beauty and leisure activities makes it an ideal getaway close to Johannesburg and Pretoria.

2. Magaliesberg Canopy Tour

Magaliesberg Canopy Tour

The Magaliesberg Mountains is a magnificent mountain range stretching over 120 kilometers between Pretoria and Rustenburg. This ancient natural wonder, which is over two billion years old, is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, boasting activities like hiking, mountain biking, and bird watching, with rich biodiversity and scenic vistas. The Magaliesberg Canopy Tour offers an exhilarating adventure through the heart of the Magaliesberg Mountains. One can glide along zip lines, moving from one platform to another, surrounded by ancient, lush vegetation and breathtaking scenery.

3. The Cradle of Humankind

Replica of the Taung Child

The Cradle of Humankind, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is an archaeological treasure trove with a significant percentage of the world’s human ancestor fossils, which offers a rare glimpse into our ancient past. Although it lies mainly in the Gauteng province, part of it extends into the North West Province. Maropeng, the visitor centre, serves as a gateway to this fascinating area, and its interactive exhibits and engaging tours guide visitors through a journey of human development, highlighting significant fossil discoveries.

The Taung Heritage Site in the North West province is famous for the discovery of the Taung Child, a fossilized skull of a young Australopithecus africanus, who was believed to have been killed by a large prehistoric bird of prey, and is a significant archaeological site.

4. Bill Harrop’s Original Balloon Safaris

Hot air ballooning in Magaliesberg

Bill Harrop’s Original Balloon Safaris offers a unique way to experience South Africa’s stunning landscapes. This family-run business provides hot air balloon flights that promise breathtaking views, especially at sunrise. Floating gently over the Magalies River Valley in the Cradle of Humankind World Heritage Site, passengers will enjoy a panorama of natural beauty, wildlife, and picturesque countryside. Each flight concludes with a hearty breakfast. It’s an unforgettable experience, perfect for special occasions or simply to take in the serene beauty of South Africa from the skies. We were fortunate enough to fly with Bill Harrop himself, a few years before he passed away.

5. Pilanesberg Game Reserve

Elephant amid the spectacular scenery in Pilanesberg National Park

Nestled in the crater of an ancient volcano, Pilanesberg National Park is a popular game reserve encompassing a diverse range of ecosystems, from rocky outcrops to open grasslands. One of the closest game reserves to Johannesburg, the reserve allows day visits and visitors can explore the park through self-drives, guided game drives, or hot air balloon safaris for a bird’s-eye view of the stunning landscape. The reserve is renowned for its abundant wildlife, including the Big Five – lions, elephants, leopards, rhinos, and buffalos, and has several lodges where visitors can stay over too.

6. Madikwe Game Reserve

Lion in Madikwe Game Reserve

Madikwe Game Reserve offers an extraordinary safari experience and is one of our favourite game reserves in South Africa. Spanning 75,000 hectares, it’s one of the country’s largest reserves and a leader in wildlife conservation efforts. Renowned for its diverse ecosystem, Madikwe is home to the Big Five, along with rare African wild dogs, cheetahs and over 300 bird species. This malaria-free zone blends luxury with wilderness, featuring exclusive lodges that provide intimate encounters with nature.

7. Mahikeng

Mahikeng (Source: South Africa Tourism)

Mahikeng, the capital of the North West Province, is steeped in history and culture. Known for the famous Siege of Mahikeng during the Second Boer War, the city has a rich heritage showcased in various monuments and museums. Mahikeng is also a gateway to Botswana and an ideal stopover for travellers exploring the region. The city offers a blend of historical attractions, such as the Mahikeng Museum, and natural beauty, with the nearby Mafikeng Game Reserve providing wildlife viewing opportunities.

8. Sun City

Palace of the Lost City (Source: Nathan Hughes Hamilton: Flickr: Creative Commons)

Sun City is a renowned resort complex known for its lavish hotels, diverse entertainment options, and family-friendly attractions. Often described as an African fantasy world, it features world-class golf courses, a water park with exhilarating slides, and adrenaline-pumping activities like zip-lining. The resort is adjacent to the Pilanesberg National Park, allowing guests to easily combine luxury with wildlife safaris.

The Palace of the Lost City at Sun City is one of South Africa’s most opulent hotels. Architecturally, it is a masterpiece of fantasy and creativity, creating an ambiance of an ancient, mythical African kingdom and it is surrounded by the lush gardens and water features.

9. Lesedi Cultural Village

Lesedi Cultural Village (Source; South Africa Tourism)

Lesedi Cultural Village offers an immersive experience into the diverse cultures of South Africa. It’s a vibrant showcase of traditions, dances, and folklore of various tribes including Zulu, Xhosa, Pedi, Basotho, and Ndebele. Visitors can engage in interactive cultural activities, enjoy authentic African cuisine, and even stay in traditional homesteads. The village provides a unique opportunity to learn about South Africa’s rich cultural tapestry firsthand. Lesedi, meaning “light” in Sotho, highlights the spirit of African brotherhood through its colourful presentations and warm hospitality.

Where to stay in North West Province

Pilanesberg Game Reserve

Kwa-Maritane Bush Lodge

Rustenberg

Moledi Gorge

Sparkling Waters Hotel and Spa 

ANEW Resort Hunters Rest 

Hartbeestpoort

Three Oaks and an Aloe Boutique Hotel

Mount Amanzi

Magaliesberg

Mount Grace

De Hoek Country Hotel

Valley Lodge

Brits

Dikhololo Resort

Madikwe Game Reserve

Molori Safari Lodge

Morukuru Family Owner’s House

Madikwe Safari Lodge

Tau Game Lodge

Jaci’s Lodges

See the best things to do in Limpopo, Eastern Cape, Kwazulu Natal and Mpumalanga.