BY Aurelia Mbokazi-Kashe
The North West province, best known as Bokone Bophirima, is a gem that keeps on giving to tourists. Not only is it within a close proximity to Gauteng, but it also has everything for young and old, the adventurous spirit, nature lovers and also caters to individuals who just want to sit back and relax after a long year. As the festive season zones in, our radar is on this beautiful province. Here are few hot spots worth checking out this festive season.
Hartebeesport Dam
Forget the growth that turned the beautiful lake into a green mush, Hartees remains a national key point for holidaymakers. Just 45 minutes from Johannesburg, day visitors can enjoy an array of activities and be home in time for dinner. However, there is plenty of accommodation options to suit all budgets.
For the young at heart, the Hartbeespoort Dam Snake & Animal Park is a great first stop. They have tigers, lions, seals and all sorts of other exotic animals inside the small zoo. Their snake live shows are amazing and a great opportunity to interact and learn more about these reptiles.
Water activities are not to be snoozed at. Hop on a ferry boat cruise across the dam for 25 minute boat ride and take in the beautiful views as well as the amazing homes on the dam’s shore. If you want something a little more adventurous on water, there are Jet Skis, Wake Snakes, Tube Ride and even speed boat cruises. All these can be booked at the boathouse inside the zoo.
For bookings visit http://www.hartieswatersports.co.za/
Theme Park
Ten Pole Theme Park is one of North West provinces great finds. Set on a large farm about 25 km outside of Rusternburg, it offers entertainment for the whole family. The owners have curated a combination of outdoor and indoor activities and managed to bring the entrance fee down so that you can enjoy a wide array of these on one ticket. The place is rough around the edges and staff can be lax, at times you will need patience of a saint. Fortunately most of the equipment works and there is generally a great atmosphere. Activities include go-karts, segways, quad bikes, horse and camel riding and there is a great selection arcade activities should you wish to remain indoors.
For bookings visit: https://tenflags.co.za/
National Park
The Pilanesburg National Park doesn’t quite get the PR it deserves. The vast safari park is one of South Africa’s gems and it has the numbers to show. Boasting more than 200 kilometres of roads, you are likely to see a lot from 7000 animals and 360 bird species found in the park. Should you not be so lucky for whatever reason, you can always enjoy bush vibes and pure tranquility found inside the park. There are various accommodation options to choose from for the full African safari experience. You can also opt for guided game drives or self-drives. However, the self-drive option can be limiting when it comes to game viewing.
There is a good network of tarred roads inside the park and these are excellent for any type of car especially since you are expected to drive slowly. When going off the beaten track, ensure that your car has a high ground clearance. On our recent trip we drove the Isuzu mu-X and in some areas there were some hairy passes, but fortunately the car was capable and managed without any major scrapes.
Sun City
For many years people from all over the world have been flocking to Sun City for their fun in the sun, and they still continue to visit in their droves. The world acclaimed resort remains in the bucket list of many people, and we are lucky to have it in our backyard. If it is a lap of luxury you are after, you can never go wrong spending a day or three in Sun City. There is literally everything for everyone from little children at Kamp Kwena, to water activities at the Valley of Waves, gaming and even a round of golf. With the festive season around the corner, look out for live music performances – could be your chance to catch your idol live in action at Sun City.
For bookings, visit https://www.suninternational.com/sun-city/activities/
Accommodation
Sundown Country Estate is a grand old dame that offers budget accommodation and personalised, southern hospitality. The hotel is perfectly positioned about 20 km from Sun City and Pilanesburg National Park. It offers comfortable accommodation in the three-star hotel as well as a wide variety of self-catering chalets for big families. Attention to detail is paid when preparing and presenting meals. Important tip – don’t miss out on the breakfast spread. The hotel takes full advantage of the activities on the property as well as the surrounding areas. Among their offerings are safari quad biking, archery, big 5 game drives as well as a beautiful spa for complete relaxation.
For booking, visit https://sundowncountryestate.com/
