The Route extends for some 2000 km in a giant arc along the eastern, northern and western boundaries of the province.
Extremely rugged in places, the route skirts or traverses four major mountain ranges. The Strydpoortberge in the south, the Waterberg in the northwest, and the Drakensberg Lebombos in the east. The route has its origins in the legendary ivory hunters and gold traders and today is an important ecotourism and 4X4-adventure destination. It offers excellent Big Five game viewing, birding and hiking trails, horse trails and abseiling. There are twelve scenically situated camps along the route located in communities and reserves near Kruger National Park, offering travellers the opportunity to experience local traditions, foods and places of interest.
The Baleni camp is situated in the eastern Lowveld on the banks of the
The camp is adjacent to a natural hot spring – Mkhulu, a sacred place about which legends abound. Watch in Winter as the local Tsonga women produce natural salt using ancient methods. Blouberg Cultural Camp is situated in a secluded spot surrounded by the foothills of the Blouberg. It is perfectly situated for day walks and hikes, as well as accessing viewing points for the largest colony of vultures in Southern Africa
The magical Fundudzi camp is in the Soutpansberg mountain forest on a terraced hillside within the Land of Legends. Experience the Tshivhase area and the village vibe. Enjoy the nights when the distant drums start beating and the Marimbas are played. The camp in the Modjadji Cycad Reserve is home to the mystified Rain Queen Modjadji, hereditary ruler of the Balobedu people, renowned for her rainmaking powers. Meet a vibrant community focused on the Lobedu traditions.
The Mafefe Camp is tucked into a remote spot in the northern Drakensberg and can only be accessed with a four-wheel drive vehicle. Access to the camp takes one along the Olifants River with various scenic views, where a few small villages are passed before the trail takes to the mountains.
The African Ivory Route Cultural Camps have a variety of immersive experiences on offer. Book for the Salt-making experience at Baleni or enjoy the Domba dance at Fundudzi.
