Formerly Known as Makhado
Louis Trichardt in the Limpopo Province of South Africa boasts an interesting cultural history dating back many centuries. Initially named after a famed Voortrekker leader, its name was briefly changed to Makhado to honour a Venda king who ruled the area for many years.
A town was established in 1898 on the farms Rietvlei and Bergvliet and named Trichardtsdorp in honour of Louis Trichardt. The name was later changed to Louis Trichardt. The old portable fort (known as Fort Hendrina) can be seen in the town.
Contemporary culture in the dorp continues to signify this fascinating symbiosis between the Venda and Afrikaans people who coexist here at the foot of South Africa’s northernmost mountain range.
The range in question is the 130 km long Soutpansberg Mountains, so named because of the large saltpan situated along their western slopes. Eye-bleedingly beautiful vistas over craggy outcrops and far-away valleys encapsulates the natural grandeur of this enigmatic region, with its baobabs, Boer War legends and many tribal myths.
Louis Trichardt is the main access point to explore the Soutpansberg area. The Venda people are accomplished decorators and crafters, so it’s a worthwhile stop to browse the many art and craft shops.
The Soutpansberg Forest Trails can be accessed from Louis Trichardt. Explore Hangklip Forest and Entabeni Forest, which includes an attracti...