Polokwane Area Profile

Polokwane at a glance

Polokwane is the capital city of the Limpopo province. It was one of the host cities of the 2010 FIFA World Cup. Polokwane boasts excellent accommodation, fine weather, and a busy, friendly population, making it the ideal business or getaway destination in the geographic and economic heart of the Limpopo Province.

Polokwane - meaning "Place of Safety" in Northern Sotho, also known by its former name, Pietersburg.  It is the largest metropolitan complex in the north and a major economic centre. Its proximity to the neighbouring countries of Botswana, Zimbabwe, Mozambique, and Swaziland, as well as its convenient distance from the Kruger National Park and Magoebaskloof, makes it a perfect gateway and good destination in itself.

The African Ivory Route which has its origins in the legendary exploits of early ivory hunters and gold traders runs through the Capricorn region. Today the route is an important eco-tourism and 4X4 adventure destination much sought after by safari enthusiasts. Traversing rugged mountainous terrain and stunning wilderness areas, the route will appeal particularly to the person drawn to the African wild. Today good roads traverse the scenic Capricorn region where once wagons and stagecoaches negotiated precipitous declines, and these, together with an excellent tourism infrastructure that includes fine accommodation establishments, encourage tourists to explore and linger in the area.

Out of the vast expanses of bushveld wilderness, roamed by an abundance of wildlife species, rise titanic mountain ranges trimmed with indigenous forests, tranquil streams, and spectacular waterfalls. Much of the Limpopo Province, particularly the Kruger National Park and other game and nature reserves, is unspoiled, providing sanctuary to large varieties of African flora and fauna.

The Zion Christian Church (ZCC) is known to be one of the biggest and fastest-growing churches in Africa. Lekganyane purchased a farm about 50km east of Polokwane and later named it Moriah. Every Easter, the church hosts a pilgrimage. More than 1 million members attend this gathering.

Popular suburbs in the city include Bendor, Broadlands, Dalmada, Fauna Park, Flora Park, Hospital Park, Ivy Park, Ivydale, Ladanna, Moregloed, Nirvana, Penina Park, Ster Park, Thornhill, Welgelegen, Westenburg, and Woodlands.