Smoking Signals: 10 Limpopo towns for a winter break-away

The Limpopo province is ideal for a winter break-away simply because it has a moderate temperature when other parts of South Africa experience extreme cold, wind, rain, or snow. It borders the Kruger National Park and game farms abound.

1. Thabazimbi, Waterberg area

There are a number of mountains around the town. Firstly, it sits at the foot of the Ysterberg and secondly it finds itself surrounded by Witfonteinrand and Boshofberg. A large iron ore mine has dominance in town, no wonder that the name Thabazimbi means "mountain of iron". Hunting is a favorite pastime of locals and visitors.

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2. Tzaneen

This beautiful, tropical town is unpleasantly hot and humid during the summer months and a winter visit is the best way to go. The region is lush and fertile, hence the reference to the area as a breadbasket.

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Entrance to the ravine

4. Bela Bela (previously called Warmbad), Bushveld

Bela Bela is home to the very popular Forever resort with its warm springs. The area has many game lodges and winter months mean reduced overnight rates.

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Bela Bela Sunset

6. Mookgopong (previously Naboomspruit)

Mookgopong is an exceptionally active town with a strong emphasis on tourism and nature. Stay at a game lodge or go on a hiking trail.

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7. Louis Trichardt

Louis Trichardt nestles at the foot of the Soutpansberg Mountains and many Baobab trees can be seen on the road leading to the town.

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8. Messina/Musina

Messina sits right at the spot where the Limpopo and Sand Rivers meet. The town is not far from the border with Zimbabwe.

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9. Phalaborwa

The town of Phalaborwa is very close to an entrance to the Kruger National Park. Below elephants can be seen in the Phalaborwa River in Kruger.

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10. Hoedspruit

Hoedspruit is a charming little town in Limpopo, probably with the emphasis on little. As is the case with many of he towns in Limpopo, Hoedspruit also focuses on tourism and agriculture.