Overview

Hoedspruit is renowned as a gateway to the world-famous Kruger National Park and other private game reserves that offer wildlife lovers some spectacular encounters with animals in the wild. There are many activities to immerse yourself in when visiting the town, whether you are here for a wildlife safari, or a tranquil nature walk, the diverse array of adventures awaits in Hoedspruit. It is a comprehensive destination for nature and adventure seekers. The town has a deep, rich history and there are many cultural events held in the village. Hoedspruit is known as the Big Five Safari capital of South Africa. 

Things to see and do

Go on a cultural journey beginning at the Nyani Cultural Village, which is the main cultural attraction in town where visitors can learn about the history and culture of the Limpopo. The journey begins in the village where guests get to observe the original show “Limpopo Pathways” featuring costumes, songs, and dances of the San (Busemen), the Sona and Venda, the Tsonga, the Balobedu (Modjadji the Rain Queen), the Pedi and the BaHananawa (Tswana). 

Take a scenic hot air balloon ride over the Lowveld section of the Blyde River at the foot of the Northern Drakensberg Escarpment. There are flights offered throughout the year with mid-summer sunrise rides beginning at 05:00 am and mid-winter at 06:30 am, meeting 45 minutes before sunrise with an hour-long ride. The views of the spectacular verdant farmland and riverine forests below and the mountains are scenic and beautiful as you glide over them. 

Take a Safari game drive led by an expert guide and traverse the varied ecosystems of Kruger while witnessing the diverse wildlife behaviors. The parks feature extensive road networks that ensure a captivating journey and offer opportunities to spot the Big Five and other fascinating creatures that call the park home. 

Immerse yourself in the oldest and most well-known reptile center in Africa at The HRC, which is home to all things reptilian and amphibian with plenty of fun and educational activities to enjoy. Visitors can engage with the trained professionals who rescue and rehabilitate injured animals and gain insight into the challenges that Hoedspruit’s wildlife faces. 

Visit the world-famous Jessica the Hippo which lives in the river of Hoedspruit. She was raised by her owners Tonie and Shirley Joubert who took care of her since her mother was found exhausted at teh border of Kruger Park. She loves her favorite spot on the sidewalk of the house in Hoedspruit sleeps in the house of Tony and Shirly and is approachable to humans. She weighs a whopping 1.2 tons and has performed in over 90 films and documentaries. 

Take an exhilarating microlight over unrivaled views of first-class game reserves glide over picture-perfect panoramas and spot wildlife from unique vantage points. Visitors can take a 10-minute trip with experienced pilots who show you the sights from above Hoedspruit. 

Go on a quad bike adventure ride with a knowledgeable guide who gives you a briefing on how to operate the bike and then hit the trails through riverine forest and bushveld surroundings. The quad bike trails are at Franklyn Park nestled at the foothills of Mariepskop Mountain.