Mokopane

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Mokopane (previously called Potgietersrus) is a town in the Limpopo province of South Africa. The town was established by the Voortrekkers and named Potgietersrus after the Voortrekker leader Piet Potgieter. The name was changed to Mokopane in 2003. It is home to the Northern Ndebele speaking tribes. Four kingdoms in the vicinity of the town are Langa (eMapela), Gegana (eMshade), Lebelo (eGarasvlei) and Langa (eBakenburg). The town was supposed to be called Mngombane as the original name of the King was Mngombane but not Mokopane. There is an interest from the locals to revive their language, many want to read and write their language.

Just two hours from Gauteng, the town acts as the perfect getaway destination and the ideal stopover for travellers en route to Botswana, Zimbabwe and the Kruger National Park. The area is typical bushveld with many acacia trees and aloes, which are at their best in June and July.

The Mokopane area is one of South Africa's richest agricultural areas producing wheat, tobacco, cotton, beef, maize, peanuts and citrus. The Zebediela Citrus estate, 55 km to the south east, is one of the biggest citrus farms in the southern hemisphere.

The stunning bushveld environment and influences from Ndebele, Pedi, Sotho, Afrikaans and English cultures give Mokopane a unique character. There are ancient caves, the "Big Five", San drawings, curios, bushveld food and drink such as biltong (dried meat) and mampoer (a potent drink), tropical gardens and traditional dancing.

The area is rich in minerals with the mining of platinum, diamonds and granite as main activities.

In the adjacent rural area of Mahwereleng traditional lifestyles, set against the spectacular Waterberg, can be observed. Mokopane also offers a wonderful selection of outdoor activities ranging from hiking, camping and 4x4 trails to birding, angling and game viewing.

The historic and archeologically-significant Makapansgat Caves is situated 15 km north of the town.

The Arend Dieperink Museum portrays the history of the town, from the ape-man at Makapansgat, bushman drawings and early activities in the area up to the Anglo Boer War and recent happenings.

Location: Mokopane (Potgietersrus), Limpopo