The Waterberg is located in the northern province of South Africa, called Limpopo. This is a malaria-free destination that is worth a visit for a number of reasons:

1) It is easily accessible from Johannesburg and Pretoria, by road it is a journey you will enjoy to self-drive, however their are transfers and private air-craft you can charter, although personally, I do not advise that. It is far better to drive!

2) The scenic beauty of the waterberg is the main reason for you to visit, this is one area that has a large number of rock formations, grasslands and unique bushveld types.

3) A visit to view Rock Art paintings made by the San or 'Bushmen' allows you to discover the mystery of these ancient people, the first inhabitants of South Africa

4) The plant diversity is incredible and even if you have no idea of what plants you are seeing a walk through the waterberg bushveld will produce so many different grasses, flowers and trees that anyone will be happy with what there is growing in its natural environment.

5) For those people with families, there are a number of malaria-free game reserves in the Waterberg, where accommodation varies from 5 star luxury lodges, guest houses, bed and breakfast venues, camping resorts as well as self-catering cottages and a few backpacker retreats too.

6) Birding is especially good along the springbok flats, however I suggest birders visit the Nylsvlei bird Sanctuary which has been declared as a RAMSAR waterfowl site.

Written and contributed by Trailsafari
www.bushtrail.co.za