Route: Tzaneen - Merensky Nature Reserve - Tsonga Kraal - Eiland Hot Springs - Leydsdorp - Ofcolaco - Tzaneen. Round trip - 125km.

Tzaneen: Colorful town in the lush lowveld with a wide range of shops and innumerable roadside stalls selling an amazing array of locally grown tropical fruits nuts and honey. Excellent Museum next to the Library.

Tsonga Kraal Museum / Hans Merensky Nature Reserve: Situated on the R529, at 38km from the R71 towards Eiland, the Tsonga Kraal Museum is sited within the Hans Merensky Nature Reserve, an area of unspoiled natural bushveld and home to a wide variety of game and birdlife. The Museum is a living cultural museum depicting the life and culture of the Tsonga / Shangaan people. Conducted tours only, Phone (015) 386 8727 for details of times. Three Hiking trails (6km, 12km and 3 days) are marked out in the Nature Reserve.

Aventure Eiland Hot Spring Resort: A variety of swimming pools, water slides and recreational facilities have been developed round these hot mineral springs on the banks of the Great Letaba River. Day visits - reservations essential.

Leydsdorp: Another old "gold rush" town dating back to the end of last Century. Historic buildings, a fascinating cemetery and a big Baobab tree, once the site of the local pub, make this an interesting place to visit. Turn off the R71 between Tzaneen and Phalaborwa at Rubbervale or Gravelotte. Leydsdorp Hotel, Tel: (015231) 4235.

Ofcolaco: 3km off the R36, 44km from Tzaneen. This African sounding name is in fact an acronym for Officers Colonial Land Company - formed by a group of redundant British Regular and Indian army officers who pooled their resources and settled in this area, adding an extra dimension to the meaning of "Untamed Africa." The Ofcolaco Club still thrives on its untamed reputation and a lovely church also makes this an interesting place to visit.

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