Thohoyandou, the former capital of the independent homeland of the Republic of Venda, is situated in the Vhembe Region of the Limpopo Province, South Africa. Located in the South of Vhembe district, Thohoyandou is on the main road between Louis Trichardt and the Kruger National Park.
With banana plantations, subtropical fruit, tobacco and maize lands, Thohoyandou is the lush agricultural centre of the Vhembe Region. The name of this town is TshiVenda for ‘head of the elephant’ which explains why the town is the administrative and commercial centre for the traditional Venda community. It was named after the great king of Vhavenda, King Thohoyandou, who ruled the kingdom from somewhere between 1690 and 1730.
A stadium was built in this town to celebrate the independence of Venda and was originally named the Venda Independence Stadium. In 1994, its name was changed to Thohoyandou Stadium. Today, Thohoyandou is one of the fastest emerging towns in the Limpopo Province and is also home to the University of Venda.
Attractions
From stunning green landscapes boasting mountains, rivers, lakes and waterfalls to the ancient myths and histories of the people who have lived here for centuries, it has much to offer holidaymakers.
Thathe Vondo forest a sacred place said to be full of spirits and protected by 2 guardians: Nethathe the white lion (a former chief) and Ndadzi, the lightning bird – who, it is said, flies on the wings of thunder.
The enchanted body of water known as Lake Fundudzi is a sacred lake of the Venda people that lies in the heart of the Soutpansberg region and is one of the few true inland lake systems in South Africa.
Lake Fundudzi can be found on the R523 between Thohoyandou and Louis Trichardt, surrounded by the mythical Thathe Vondo forest – believed to be so full of spirits that few Venda people venture into it for fear of haunting and a lightning bird called Ndadzi. Trips to the lake shore are traditionally rarely granted to visitors, which is probably just as well as it is said to be infested with crocodiles. So sacred is the lake that newcomers must turn their backs on the lake and view the water from between their legs, according to the ritual after which the lake is named.
The Phiphidi Falls also on the same route, is an exquisite place to sit back and relax amid the lush forests of the area. Remember to respect this beautiful spot in the home of the Venda, as it is sacred and special – and not just to the Venda people.
Phiphidi lies within a forest on the Mutshindudi River. The rock above the waterfall is called LanwaDzon golo, and the pool below the waterfall; Guvhukuvhu. Both are considered holy. The Venda believe that the water and the pool are the home of ancestral water spirits to whom they bring offerings of beer and grain.
Tshatshingo Potholes is a remarkable natural attraction celebrated for its stunning geological formations and tranquil ambiance. Nestled in the picturesque landscapes of Venda, this site features a series of deep potholes carved into the rock by the relentless flow of water over the ages. Each pothole is unique, creating a mesmerizing pattern that draws visitors from near and far. The crystal-clear waters of the potholes invite countless opportunities for photography, making it a favorite spot for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.
Thohoyandou National Botanical Gardens is a beautiful garden set against the slopes of Soutpansberg Mountains in the northern part of Limpopo Province. The garden features an interesting mixture of indigenous scrub forest and mist belt forest. A birding walk in the gardens could last up to 1-2 hours. There are two long trails lead through the gardens, beginning at the main entrance and the offices. Both take roughly 2-hours to complete. Search the forest for the Pink-throated Twinspot, Bearded Scrub-robin, Bar-throated Apalis, Narina Trogon, Red-capped Robin-chat, Green Twinspot, Blue-spotted Wood Dove, and Gorgeous Bushshrike. Watch for the resident pair of Black Sparrowhawk darting through the forest, and check dense thickets for the roosting pair of African Wood Owls.
Accommodation
Thohoyandou is home to a range of hotels and accommodations, each offering its own unique charm and amenities. I personally enjoyed my stay at Damview Eco lodge is Ideal for nature lovers looking for a self-sufficient getaway, it is fully furnished and has kitchen facilities. Its located close to Kalahari water front, Royal gardens, Nandoni leisure park, Kingsgate Nandoni dam, etc among other attractions.
Transportation:
Getting to Thohoyandou is easy, with a range of transportation options available. Visitors can fly into the nearby Polokwane International Airport, which is located about 100 kilometers from Thohoyandou. From there, travelers can take a taxi or rent a car to reach their destination. Alternatively, visitors can take a direct bus to Thohoyandou from Johannesburg or Polokwane.
Please note that both Thohoyandou bus rank & Thavhani mall bus rank are used by the following operators Mulaudzi, Enos, Netshituni, Phadziri, Omega, Mabirimisa,Do Light, Magwaba, Machochi, Maivha and Big Lion ensuring the town is connected to the rest of South Africa.
Shopping
Thavhani Mall is the first fully enclosed ultra-modern, double-storey regional mall in the vibrant heart of Thohoyandou. The mall brings together style and convenience with over 130 shops, restaurants, and service outlets. You’ll find anchor tenants Woolworths, Edgars, Pick n Pay and SuperSpar mixed with fabulous fashion from Foschini, Truworths and Mr Price. Thavhani Mall also adds extra excitement with a number of fantastic retail firsts for Thohoyandou – making it the ultimate shopping destination. There are more malls in the city i.e Phangami shopping centre, Mvusuludzo mall, sabina plaza, capricorn plaza, etc.
Important notes
- Please respect local customs. Don’t visit the scared places without the local chiefs permission.
- The forest has go too many trails always get a local guide at lake Funduzi.
- Taxi ranks are crucial to understanding the transport dynamics in the city. Minibuses are the most common and affordable option within the town.
- Ride hailing services (bolt & uber) are available in the city, offering an alternative to taxis.
suzgo chingati 