Modjadji Cycad Reserve
The garden town of Tzaneen provides the perfect springboard from which to explore a huge range of outdoor options in the area. Beyond the extensive plantations and surrounding mountain slopes, the unique Modjadji Cycad Reserve (named for verdant groves of these ancient tree ferns) as well as the Kruger National Park lie within easy reach.
The realm of the Rain Queen, said to have ancient rain-making powers, surrounds the Modjadji Cycad Reserve, home to the oldest and largest cycads on earth. Strolling through this ancient forest is exhilarating, while standing in front of SA’s biggest baobab tree is a humbling experience.
Hans Merensky Nature Reserve
This reserve lies along the south bank of the Great Letaba River to the west of the Kruger National Park near Tzaneen. The great attraction here is that you can explore most of the park on foot.
Hiking trails include the Mopane Interpretive Trail, the Letaba Trail which follows the river (great for birding) and the Giraffe Trail, a three-day, 32-kilometre hike with overnight stops in well-appointed huts. Self-drive game viewing, mountain biking and horse riding are also available. Eiland Spa is situated in the reserve.