The Mapungubwe, is perched on a steep rocky hills and only accessible through a single narrow cleft, was once a natural fortress and the centre of Mapungubwe culture, of which archaeologists have found abundant evidence, including artefacts of gold. A substantial deposit with layers of soil covers it; remains of floors, burnt houses and household refuse. The Southern Terrace below was inhabited from around AD 1030 to 1290 (about 260 years). The hilltop was inhabited for about 70 years from AD 1220 to Ad 1290.The site has been a national landmark since 1984. Mapungubwe National Park and World Heritage Site is rich in biodiversity, great scenic beauty and the cultural importance of the archaeological treasures of Mapungubwe.
The area was already inhabited by a growing Iron Age community from 900 AD and became rich through trade with faraway places like Egypt, India and China. The Mapungubwe National Park is the place where archeologists excavated the famous golden rhino and other evidence of a wealthy African kingdom. Sandstone formations, mopane woodlands and unique riverine forest and baobab trees form the astounding scenic backdrop for a rich variety of animal life. Elephant, giraffe, white rhino, eland, gemsbok and numerous other antelope species occur naturally in the area. Lucky visitors might spot predators like lions, leopards and hyenas. Birders can tick off 400 species, including kori bustard, tropical boubou and pel’s fishing owl.
At the Mapungubwe National Park one can enjoy a view over the confluence of the Shashe and Limpopo rivers where three countries unite: Botswana, South Africa and Zimbabwe There is a picnic site with ablution facilities at the Confluence with shaded picnic spots with tables and taps. You can also hire a skottel braai and stock up on cool drinks at the tuck shop.
Mapungubwe National Park visitors can indulge in guided tours to the archaeological and cultural sites; visiting the Tree top walk and various game and bird hides; self guided trails; Eco routes; guided trips to Limited Motorized Zones; birding trips and night drives.You will be given the opportunity to visit the elite graveyard at the top of Mapungubwe Hill, view a natural amphitheatre and the entire spectrum of the region… traverse the territory once walked upon by the ancestral Mapungubwe People … now roamed by four of the Big 5. |
