Tzaneen Dam is set in the tropical area of South Africa, surrounded by tea, banana and fruit plantations. Only an hour’s driving away from the Kruger National Park, this wilderness area incorporates the dam basin and a peninsula, with plenty of angling and fishing opportunities.

Tzaneen Dam

Previously known as Fanie Botha Dam, the lake is fed by the Letaba River, just outside the town of Tzaneen. To access the lake, a drive along several kilometres of tracks through dense mature eucalyptus forests is required. When you emerge from the forest, it was well worth the trip as the dam is fantastic to look at and just oozes big fish!

Stocked with Florida strain largemouth bass, the dam is a fixture on the tournament circuit being the venue for several competitions, including the annual Tzaneen Bass Classic held in June of each year.

This is also a favorite birding area with more than 350 bird species. Stay overnight at a picnic site or a caravan park and nature will treat you to magnificent copper bronze skies at sunset.

The surface area covers about 12 km² at an elevation of 728 m. Boating is permitted in most areas, and there is an official slipway at the Aquatic Club.

....that BEEEEG!

The lake is home to some hippos and at least one fairly large crocodile, so swimming in shallow backwaters is not recommended. The hippos are not too aggressive but should still be avoided as they might just be having a bad day. Remember, in Africa, hippos have right of way.

Although access is restricted in many parts, bank angling is possible in many areas, a float tube or canoe would make some of the standing timber accessible. Watch out for hippos and crocs!

service providers

Service Providers

Stay overnight at Tzaneen Wildlife Camp where a picnic site or a caravan park and nature will treat you to magnificent copper bronze skies at sunset. Visitor’s facilities consist of caravan and camping sites with ablution facilities: 28 Stands, Barbeque Area, Parking.

Fairview Hotel & Village

Fairview Hotel & Village boasts various types of accommodation, hotel style units, suites and selfcatering chalets. These 40 units can sleep 80 people and are tastefully decorated in an Afro-colonial style. All rooms are supplied with all necessary amenities in bathrooms as well as a coffee and tea tray. DSTV is in all rooms and wireless internet can be accessed in public areas.

 

Mashutti Country Lodge

Located on a country farm near Tzaneen, at the foot of the Wolkberg mountains, Mashutti Country Lodge is surrounded by the breathtaking beauty of tropical gardens, abundance of fruit and nut trees, and lush vegetation. The great location of this Lodge offers ample opportunities to explore the nature reserves, hike in the mountains, visit local museums, or tour the coffee, tea, and cotton plantations. View the artefacts of pottery, beads, and pole carvings found at the nearby Tzaneen Dam, go fly fishing on a local river, and feed a crocodile at the Agatha Crocodile Ranch. This Country Lodge offers 40 standard double rooms along with 4 suites, all finished with hand crafted mahogany.  Two swimming pools located in the midst of lush, tropical gardens where you can float in paradise while admiring a spectacular view of the surrounding mountains. A warm and inviting lounge area is ideal for reading a book, relaxing with a drink from the bar, or playing a board game. Watch some television in the TV lounge before heading over to the restaurant for an a la carte meal in the dining room with magnificent views.

The Bloemhof Dam is one of the largest dams in South Africa, covering an area of some 25 000 ha and reaching over 100 km upstream from the dam wall. The dam is fed by the Vaal River.

Bloemhof Dam Wall

Bloemhof Dam Nature Reserve hosts a wide variety of plains game with particularly large herds of springbok, black wildebeest, eland and gemsbok. Over 250 species of birds have been recorded at the reserve including some rare waterfowl on the dam. The reserve hosts several national and international fishing competitions including the Tri-Nations and the Bloemhofdam Bonanza. The Bloemhof Dam is open for all watersports. Powerboat launching facilities are provided. Angling is also permitted on the Vaal River below the dam wall. When visiting the Bloemhof Dam Reserve, take in the dam wall, accessed from the village. A dramatic experience when the river is in full flood.

Giraffes in Sandveld Nature Reserve

Sandveld Nature Reserve, situated on the Free State side of the Bloemhof Dam (at the confluence of the Vaal and Vet Rivers), is the Free State’s top birding spot. Its roughly 37 000 hectares comprise a range of habitats (particularly kalahari Thornveld), and boast a checklist of approximately 295 bird species. A two to three day stay in the pleasant surroundings is recommended. Most habitats are easily accessible. Lists of 70-80 bird species are usual, while up to 150 species may be seen over a weekend in late summer.

Habitats include open water, shoreline, marshy areas, grassland, karoo scrub, kalahari Thornveld savanna and woodland, and sweethorn (acacia karoo) savanna. Some rocky areas are also present.

A good network of gravel roads traverses the different habitats, chalet accommodation, night drives, organised walks, picnic sites for day visitors.

Climate

Generally mild to hot, but can be cold in winter, especially at night.

service providers

Service Providers

Bloemhof Dam Nature Reserve offers a group-camp complex consisting of three self-catering, furnished chalets, with 3 bedrooms each, three dormitory type sleeping halls with six beds each, an ablution block, a kitchen and a small conference or function facility and lapa.

Fishing at Bloemhof Dam

All 3 chalets have 3 bedrooms with 2 single beds in each. They are equipped with linen, except the towels. There is a toilet and shower in the chalet. An open plan kitchen with cutlery and crockery, a built in kitchen unit with wash basin, 2 plate stove and fridge. There is a kitchen table with chairs and a cane lounge set with coffee table. Outside is a lapa for braai. Costs are per person per night plus once off entrance and fishing fee. Chalets are 1.Ѕ km from the dam.

The 3 sleeping halls have 6 single beds in each, and are also equipped with linen except the towels, separate ablution and kitchen with cutlery and crockery, fridge freezer combination, 2 stoves. There is a lapa for braai. Costs are per person per night plus entrance and fishing fee.

Camping at Bloemhof Dam

The log cabins with 2 bunk beds for 4 people are equipped with linen except towels, have toilet and shower inside, a kitchen unit with wash basin and gas stove and fridge. Lights and geyser are solar powered. Cost are for the entire cabin per night. Visitors must bring their own cutlery and crockery.

Camping facilities are available at the angling area.

A thatched hunting camp has been opened on the reserve which can be hired as a unit offering a peaceful environment in the centre of the reserve. There is no electricity at this camp which is powered by solar panels.

Plek Vanni Visarend

Plek Vanni Visarend is located in Bloemhof on the banks of the Vaal river. The lodge can accommodate 32 people. There are 8 rooms available – all 8 rooms can sleep 2 people and each room has “en-suite” bathrooms. Our 1 room has a jacuzzi in the room. There are two 4 bed self-catering units and one 6 bed self-catering unit, each with its own fully equipped kitchen and bathroom and DSTV. All rooms are equipped with a air conditioning.

On the premises there is a restaurant to cater for 250 people. Breakfast/lunch and dinner are served. There is a open bar located on the deck of the restaurant where guests can enjoy a sundowner while looking over the water and watch the sunset.

 

River View Resort

River View Resort is an upmarket holiday destination in Bloemhof that offers a great self-catering stay for the whole family.

Each of the four chalets at River View Resort has three bedrooms and two bathrooms. They are fully equipped including linen and towels. The open-plan kitchen is fully equipped for self-catering, and a TV room with DStv is available. The units have built-in braais, there is air-conditioning in every room. Breakfast, lunch and dinner is available for overnight accommodation.

Guests have access to a heated pool and separate parking. Fishing decks are situated 20 m from the chalets on the banks of the Vaal River.

 

Vrolikheid Gastehuis, situated in a peaceful area in town, offers three bedrooms: 1 double and two twins. It also has a full bathroom, separate shower and separate toilet. There is a lovely lounge with a TV and a fully equipped kitchen, with braai facilities outside. Breakfast will be available on request.

The Hartbeespoort Dam, surrounded by the majesty of the Magaliesberg mountain range, is a popular destination for weekend getaways or day trips. All water sports may be enjoyed including para-sailing, windsurfing, water and jet skiing.

With about 56 km shoreline, it is a popular week-end getaway for both Pretoria and Johannesburg, and as such, attracts some of the wealth concentrated on this region.

Hartbeespoort Dam

For the adventurous there is paragliding, hang-gliding or hot air ballooning, as well as an aquarium, private zoo, a snake park and a cable way. Or, explore and discover the scenic beauty, entertaining attractions, fun activities & places of interest of Jozi’s favorite playground.

The village of Hartbeespoort is situated along the shores of the dam, among undulating hills and panoramic views of the dam and the majestic Magaliesberg Mountains. Enjoy the tranquility of the hills and valleys, the scenic drives, challenging hikes and gentle rambles on offer.

Also of interest is the Crocodile Ramble, an arts and crafts route with day visitor and overnight facilities. Pecanwood Estates hosts the annual Nelson Mandela Invitation Golf Tournament.

The Heritage Route starts at the dam, going north to the Pilanesberg National Park and on to the Madikwe Game Reserve in the north.

History

Many years ago, a man by the of General Hendrik Schoeman, owned a farm called Hartbeespoort. He had the idea of building a dam, in which the community could gain from. During 1896 building of the dam wall began in the Crocodile river, near the railway line that today runs to Meerhof. It was the largest dam in the southern hemisphere.

He named this dam “Sophia dam”, after his wife, but was later changed to the name that stands today: Hartbeespoort dam. The dam wall cost a staggering R10 000 to build… Back then.

In 1905, it was decided to relocate the location of the dam wall. It would be positioned between two mountains; the same position still remains today.

A swedish man by the name of August Karlson was hired to engineer the build. However, due to financial problems and the onset of war, construction came to a halt soon after.

Building commenced again in 1918. Unfortunately, during 1921, torrential rain washed the temporary dam away. Again construction came to a stand still. Out of sheer frustration, August Karlson resigned from his position.

The council was left with no one to finish the build, so they hired a young, but talented engineer named F.W.Scott. With the dam finally built, the first road over the bridge was tarred. This became the new road between Pretoria and Rustenburg.

The Magaliesberg are among the oldest mountains in the world, almost 100 times older than Everest. They stretch for 120km from Bronkhorstspruit Dam east of Pretoria to Rustenburg in the west and separate the highveld grasslands to the south from the bushveld savannah in the north.

‘Where the Water Meets the Sky’, and true to its name, Bangweulu’s endless floodplains of grey-blue waters disappearing into the horizon, blending completely with the color of the sky, make it impossible to tell just where the horizon is.

Likened to Botswana’s great Okavango Delta, the Bangweulu Wetlands are situated in the Northern Province of Zambia. The Bangweulu ecosystem stretches northwards to include Lake Bangweulu and other adjoining smaller lakes, swamps, floodplains, islands and adjoining woodlands above flood levels. Together, the inflowing Chambeshi and outflowing Luapula Rivers form the remote headwaters of the Congo. The region is closely associated with Dr. David Livingstone, who died here at Chief Chitambo’s village.

Bangweulu Wetlands

With a long axis of 75 km and a width of up to 40 km, Lake Bangweulu’s permanent open water surface is about 3,000 km², which expands when its swamps and floodplains are in flood at the end of the rainy season in May. The combined area of the lake and wetlands reaches 15,000 km². The lake has an average depth of only 4 m.

Samfya is the largest town on the Lake, developed in the mid 1900’s as a fishing village. It is very shabby, unordered and scattered, but you can get basic supplies as well as fresh fish. There is a post office, clinic and adequate fuel supplies.

The Great Bangweulu Basin, incorporating the vast Bangweulu Lake and a massive wetland area lies in a shallow depression in the centre of an ancient cratonic platform, the North Zambian Plateau. The basin is fed by 17 principal rivers from a catchment area of 190 000 km² , but is drained by only one river, the Luapula.

The area floods in the wet season between November in March, receiving an average annual rainfall of about 1,200 mm, but 90% of the water entering the system is lost to evapo-transpiration. The resultant effect is that the water level in the centre of the basin varies between one and two meters, causing the floodline to advance and retreat by as much as 45 km at the periphery. It is this seasonal rising and falling of the flood waters that dictates life in the swamps.

The adjacent Kasanka National Park to the immediate South is one of the most picturesque parks in Zambia and contains a rich diversity of animal, bird and plant life. Several rare species are abundant in the park, including sitatunga, wattled crane, Ross’s Lourie and Blue Monkeys. Kasanka is also host to a unique and spectacular congregation of several Million Straw-Colored Fruitbats every November and December. Despite being one of Zambia’s smallest parks at 390 km² (39,000 ha), Kasanka has a wide variety of habitats, each hosting their own associated wildlife. There are 2 permanent lodges in Kasanka, Wasa and Luwombwa.

In August 1872, David Livingstone was on his way from Tabora, where Stanley had left him in March. Near Bangweulu he got bogged down in the swamps but finally reached Chitambo’s village. On May 1, 1873, his servants found him in his tent kneeling in prayer at the bedside. He was dead. His men buried his heart but embalmed the body. Susi & Chuma then carried it to the mission of the Holy Ghost fathers at Bagamoyo. It reached England, where it was identified by the lion wound in the left shoulder. On April 18, 1874, Livingstone was buried in great honor in London’s Westminster Abbey.

The Kwanga Ceremony of the Njumbo tribe takes place in Samfya in October. If you are there at the time it’s worth finding out about for a fascinating insight into local customs and traditional dancing. Any of the locals should be able to tell you the exact date as it changes from year to year, or ask at the Tourist Board in Lusaka.

Flora and Fauna

The lake is exploited more as a fish source than for its tourist potential. This is unfortunate, as it’s beauty is breathtaking. There are rumours of developing a tourist resort and having a luxury cruise boat for hire. But for the moment this is a an interesting stopover for the intrepid vehicle traveller or backpacker.

Fisherman in a Mokoro

The main catches in the Lake are Cychlids (bream, tigerfish, yellow belly) and catfish. About 57 000 metric tons of fish are harvested from the Lake each year. Although fish stocks are not in danger, catches are declining and the favoured species are becoming thinner.

The higher ground surrounding the Bangweulu is dominated by miombo woodland intersected by numerous dambos. The floodplain itself is dominated by grasslands varying in composition according to the depth and duration of annual flooding. For the most part, the swamps consist of areas of open water surrounded by permanent dense stands of Papyrus grass and Phragmites reeds which are only accessible by airboat or shallow canoe via an intricate network of narrow channels.

In contrast, the temporarily inundated floodplains, grasslands and woodlands provide for a greater range of vegetation types and as a consequence a greater diversity in bird and animal species who inhabit these areas at various times of the year.

Black Lechwe

Numerous termite mounds are scattered over a wide area. They are such a feature of this environment that Livingstone once described the Bangweulu floodplain as “a world of water and anthills.” These raised mounds act as small islands safe for any flooding and allow the survival of various tree seedlings. Over time these trees have become well established with the result that a woodland has developed and contains good examples of water berry, Syzygium cordatum, sausage tree Kigelia africana and several figs, to name but a few.

The Bangweulu Wetlands is the last area where the black lechwe (Kobus leche smithemani) occur, with an estimated population at the present time of 100,000 animals. There is also a very high density sitatunga population, and at least 10,000 tsessebe. Remnant populations of elephant, buffalo, hippopotamus and zebra also remain. Bangweulu is an important bird area especially well known as a stronghold of the enigmatic Shoebill, and a large population of Wattled Cranes. Much of the area is lake, swamp, seasonally flooded grasslands and attractive termite-mound woodlands. The Chambeshi and Luapula Rivers, which are the main southern tributaries of the Congo River, if not the source of the Congo itself, rise in the area.

When to go

During the rains (November to March) insects are more prolific but the birdlife is phenomenal. All trips in and around the swamps are by boat. The Chimbwe floodplain will be inundated and to attempt to drive to Shoebill Island Camp will be impossible. There is a raised causeway leading from the last village before the floodplain, Muwele, to Chikuni. A small banana boat is used to reach the Camp from Chikuni, a trip of 4 kms through tall grasses and reeds.

Depending on the extent of the rain during the summer, the floodplain dries out sufficiently to allow the passage of 4×4 vehicles by mid to late April. It is then possible to observe the black lechwe at close quarters and also to reach another raised causeway that leads to Shoebill camp.

By June/July, much of the floodplain is dry and the lechwe have moved closer towards the permanent swamp and Shoebill Camp. It also becomes possible to take walks from the camp and experience the strange sensation of walking on the floating mats of vegetation which grow on the surface of the once open water. While the number of birds around at this time of year is still extensive, the number of species drops with the departure of the summer migrants.

August is very much the middle of winter in the swamps, and although the daytime temperatures are pleasant it can be extremely cold at nights with temperature dropping to freezing.

location

Location (from 10° 52′ 12″ S, 29° 56′ 60″ E to 12° 40′ 12″ S, 30° 43′ 12″ E)

Chiundaponde to Waka Waka

The drive to the southern edge of the swamps where Shoebill and Nsobe camps are, takes about 12 hours from Lusaka, the last stretch of 140 km taking six hours! Take the Great North Road from Lusaka, turn right just after Kapiri Mposhi towards Mpika. Take the Samfya/Mansa road turning left after Serenje. Turn right 10 km after the Kasanka turnoff, towards the Livingstone memorial and remain on this track, keeping right at the memorial fork, for 70 km, towards the village of Chiundaponde.

Another route is to go directly to the Lavushi Manda turnoff on the Great North road, just below Mpika, which leads straight to Chiundaponde. From the village, make your way to Chikuni Island and then straight ahead to Shoebill Camp or left to Nsobe Camp. You can ask for directions at the WWF camp at Chikuni, as it is very easy to get lost after you leave the village.

If driving, make sure you have adequate fuel and spares as this is an extremely remote part of the country and help is a long way off. It is advisable to let someone know when you are leaving and when you expect to arrive or return. There are radio facilities at Shoebill camp and a National Parks & Wildlife Services office at Chiundaponde.

The Postal Services Corporation runs a transport boat from the mainland to the three main islands in Lake Bangweulu: Mbabala, Cishi and Chilubi.

Bangweulu Wetlands in a larger map

The river is “The Gambia”. Literally, the country exists as a small strip of land area to either side of the river. People say: “The Gambia River is the Gambia and the Gambia is the River”. It is a major tourist attraction and the dominant feature running through the heart of the country.

Fishing Fleet in Banjul

This West African waterway is approximately 700 miles (1,130 km) long, rising in the Fouta Djallon plateau in Northern Guinea, flowing generally northwest through SE Senegal then west, dissecting The Gambia, to the Atlantic Ocean at Banjul. The river is navigable in most of its length. Ocean-going vessels can reach Georgetown (Janjangbureh), about 175 miles (280 km) upstream. The river provides access to interior sections of Senegal and Guinea. About 70 per cent of its catchment of 77,000 km² lies less than 100 m above sea level; 30 % below 40 m. The tide (and navigation) intrudes to 460 km upstream of Banjul and thus defines the estuary and the greater part of the boundary between The Gambia an Senegal.

About 42,000 km² of the catchment area is situated above the hydrologic station at Gouloumbo (km 492). Of the 35,000 km² area downstream of this point, 10,500 km are in the Gambian territory.

In 1978, Senegal and The Gambia formed the Gambia River Development Organization (which was joined by Guinea in 1980) for the purpose of developing the river’s natural resources. The objective of the project is to increase agro-forestry and pastoral output, rationalise tapping of the natural resources and improve the infrastructures and social services of the project area.

The river ecology is divided into two different zones, estuarine and freshwater, which in turn largely determine the peripheral vegetation pattern. Salt water sneaks in some 150 km (95 mi) upstream, as far as Kantaur in the dry season (November to June). In the lower estuary, mangroves dominate the riverside, with extensive reed belts in the in-between zone, while where the water is fresh, the banks are lined with gallery forest.

Up river, the water wildlife is more interesting where you can see crocodiles, dolphins and hippos. The main feature along the river is the incredible variety of birds and most of the bird trips are boat trips along the creeks of The Gambia at dawn or dusk.

There are boat trips and fishing voyages, but too little is now made of the river in tourist terms though there are tour companies operating river tours and fishing safaris at the mouth of the river and upstream. There are camps at Tendaba and Georgetown specialising in watching and spotting the amazing variety of species that abound in this tiny country.

If you travel to Banjul, think of taking the ferry to Barra just for the trip and its sights and sounds. Fort Bullen at Barra Point was built by the British 200 years ago to cover the approaches to Banjul and the river, succeeding James Island Fortress (destroyed by the French) as the main point of defence in the colony. It can be reached by direct ferry from the capital. Oyster Creek is the centre of an area of creeks and waterways which can be visited from Banjul. This area is part of the Tanbi Wetlands.

The river is also closely linked with the slave trade, the remains of slave trading posts can be seen along its length and the Roots books brought prominence to Albreda near Juffure Village from where Kunte Kinte was enslaved. Albreda was the main French trading post before they withdrew from The Gambia. Nearby is the village of Juffure, the home of the ancestors of black American writer Alex Haley, author of ‘Roots’. Visitors who want to see more of the countryside may cross by ferry from Banjul to Barra and travel by road to Juffureh and Albreda (the journey lasts about 50 minutes), and then by canoe to James Island in the calm waters of the River Gambia.

The popular tourist destination of Tendaba is 160 km (100 miles) from Banjul by river or road. Further upriver, the fascinating circles of standing stones around Wassau have now been identified as burial grounds more than 1200 years old. Georgetown was the ‘second city’ of colonial days, and is still the administrative and trading centre of the region. Basse Santa Su is the major trading centre for the upper reaches of the Gambia River. Handsome trading houses built at the turn of the century can be seen there. By the riverside at Perai Tenda can be found a multitude of abandoned shops formerly operated by European, Gambian and Lebanese merchants in the days when up-river commerce offered substantial profits for private traders.

The scenic Kowie River (known locally as the “Ecawa”) is navigable for some 28 km and flows from wild indigenous forest through farmland, past riverside homes, under two bridges in Port Alfred’s town center and out to sea. In its tidal waters people enjoy boating, cruising, waterskiing, fishing and swimming, while canoeists on the Kowie Canoe Trail paddle at their own pace to their overnight shelter in the forest, passing hikers on the riverside Kowie Hiking trail or picnickers at the waterside.

Kowie River Mouth - Port Alfred

The Kowie has its source in the hills of the Grahamstown Heights from where it flows in a south-easterly direction draining the major part of the Bathurst region.  Its principal tributaries are the Bloukrans, the Bakrivier and the Lushington (or Torrens) River. The Little Kowei River is a smaller tributary which enters the estuarine portion of the river 14 km from the mouth. There are also a number of smaller unnamed streams entering the river along its course. The total length of the Kowie River is approximately 70 km.

Geology

The major part of the Kowie River lies within a strip of the Bokkeveld Series which runs along its length down to the coast, in a north-westerly to south-easterly direction. The Bokkeveld Series consists mainly of shale with subsidiary sandstone bands; pronounced dipping and folding are evident, as can be seen in the quarries and cuttings of Port Alfred.

Land Use

Agricultural products include pineapples, citrus, chicory, fodder crops, cattle and goat. The Kowie River dominates the town as it meets the Indian Ocean at Port Alfred. Most of the river is navigable by boat, making it one of the longest tidal rivers in South Africa, and an important center for tourism in the Eastern Cape.

The Kowie Nature Reserve of 174 ha is just outside Port Alfred, off the Bathurst Road. It boasts an 8 km riverside walk through scenic valley bushveld and some picnic and braai sites. Local fauna is abundant, including the Blue Duiker and Cape Clawless Otter.

The Waters Meeting Nature Reserve lies in the river’s Horseshoe Bend. From there, scenic views are enjoyed on the one-day hiking trail around the Sarel Hayward Dam. A number of picnic sites are to be found on the way; look out for African Fish Eagles! The only self-guided hiking / canoe trail in South Africa starts at Port Alfred and ends at Horseshoe Bend.

Vegetation

Warm temperature coastal forests: This vegetation type is well established to the east with Sideroxylon inerme (milkwood), Mimusops caffra (red milkwood), Brachylaena discolor (wild silver oak) and others. Nearer the river, however, this coastal forest is more open and stunted or lower growing.  Alien trees such as Eucalyptus globulus (blue gum) and Acacia cyclops (rooikrans) are found here while Passerina sp, Chrysanthemoides monolifera and Rhus crenata are found nearer the beach.

Sub-succulent Woodland, Coastal Sub-formation: Tree Euphorbias and other succulents are common in this vegetation type as well as Schotia latifolia (bush boerboon), Ptaeroxylon obliquum (sneeze wood), Cussonia spicata (cabbage tree) and others. This vegetation type is described as ‘Valley Bushveld, Southern Variation’ and is found adjacent to the river well into the catchment, except where the vegetation has been removed by  private land owners for crops and grazing. Around the town, this vegetation type survives relatively well, except in areas where some of the woody species have been removed for fuel.

History

As far as could be ascertained, the river has always been known as the Kowie River. The settlement established at the mouth of the river in 1821 was originally called Port Kowie. This was changed to Port Frances in 1825 in honour of the wife of Colonel Henry Somerset who was then in charge of the military forces on the Eastern Frontier. In 1860 the name of the town was changed once again, to Port Alfred to honour Prince Alfred, Duke of Edinburg who was visiting the Frontier at that time. When the settlement was first established at the mouth of the river, the estuary consisted of one vast swampy region bounded on the east and west by the hills today known as the East and West Banks. When the tide receded it left exposed a number of sandbanks or islands, and the main outlet to the sea was under the eastern hill, exactly opposite the flats to where it is at present.

Shipping

The Kowie River Mouth is an extremely popular spot to get shipwrecked – exercise care.

service providers

Service Providers

Kowie River - Mansfield Private Reserve

This is the hart of the Sunshine Coast and Settler Country, home to many attractions including Addo Elephant National Park and numerous private game lodges.

Bretton Beach Crest resort is situated 3 km from the Kowie River Mouth along the beach front and consists of 9 comfortably furnished, fully equipped beach cottages.

The Halyards Hotel is splendidly set along the waterfront of the popular Royal Alfred Marina, a fine example of Cape Cod architecture with its cool and nautical appeal.

If fishing and surfing are the sports you enjoy Port Alfred is the place to holiday. Come and enjoy these rustic self-catering Kowie River Chalets, centrally located in this rural seaside town. Enjoy a one or two day paddle trail on the river, bag a fish or two, snap up some bargains at the big pineapple or just relax at the poolside.

The Links Coastal Inn is the perfect location to explore and enjoy the many interesting tourist attractions of the area.

Mansfield Private Reserve and Lodge, just 7 km north of Port Alfred, lies nestled amongst 1000 acres of lush undulating grassland and thornveld plat

eaus. Vegetation is typical Eastern Cape sweetveld with kloofs providing ideal habitat for both browsers and grazers.

The Royal Guest House is situated high on the east bank of the Kowie River and overlooks the peaceful marina. French doors from the lounge open onto a magnificent wooden deck from where you can overlook the town and out to sea  – sometimes spotting the odd migrating whale!

The Limpopo is the second largest river in Africa that drains to the east, after the Zambezi River. Around 1 750 kilometers long, it starts at the confluence of the Marico and Crocodile rivers in South Africa and flows in a great arc, first zig-zagging northeast and north, then turning east and finally southeast. It serves as a border for about 640 km, separating South Africa on the southeast bank from Botswana in the northwest and Zimbabwe on the north.

Limpopo River - Mapungubwe

Mapungubwe National Park and World Heritage Site is rich in biodiversity, great scenic beauty and the cultural importance of the archaeological treasures of Mapungubwe. On Mapungubwe Hill, a far developed African civilisation prospered between 1200 and 1270 AD. The area was already inhabited by a growing Iron Age community from 900 AD and became rich through trade with Egypt, India and China.

The Limpopo’s main tributary is the Olifants River (Elephant River). Other major tributaries include the Shashe River, Mzingwane River, Crocodile River, Mwenezi River and Luvuhu River.

The port town of Xai-Xai, Mozambique is on the river near its mouth. Below the Olifants, the river is permanently navigable to the sea, though a sandbar prevents access to larger ships, except at high tide.

There are at least three Olifants Rivers in South Africa – in the Western Cape, the Southern Cape and the one originating in Mpumalanga. That’s the one we’re really interested in: it flows north through Witbank Dam and Loskop Dam and is forced east by the Transvaal Drakensberg. Cutting through at the Abel Erasmus Pass to flow east, joining the Letaba River, the Olifants crosses into Mozambique to become the Rio dos Elefantes. It flows into the Shingwedzi and the Limpopo River before entering the Indian Ocean at Xai-Xai, north of Maputo.

Olifants River - Kruger National Park

On its course, the Olifants River traverses some of the most industralized mining areas, but also some of the most scenic and well-developed touristic areas of South Africa; Witbank and Loskop Dams are popular week-end and holiday destinations offering a variety of watersport activities.

Loskop Dam Nature Reserve covers approximately 22 850 ha, which includes about 2 350 ha surface area of the dam. The reserve surrounds the Loskop Dam reservoir, 55 km north of Middelburg. The topography of the reserve is extremely hilly with deeply carved drainage lines leading to the valley bottoms. A variety of woodland covers the hillsides. On warmer north facing slopes Red Bushwillow, Large-fruited Bushwillow and Hornpod Tree are among the common species. On south-facing hillsides trees are smaller and more widely space with Common Sugarbush and Common Hookthorn dominating. Large Transvaal Beech, with their furrowed bark giving an ancient appearance, occur at the base of the south facing hillsides, while elegant wild Syringa form an open woodland on flat country and footslopes. A complexity of grass species grow among the trees in this bushveld landscape which turns from the verdant green of the wet summer months, to a tantalizing mix of copper and gold as leaves begin to fall in autumn. Principal game species include white rhino, hippo, crocodile, buffalo, and fine herds of plains antelope species. The presence of the dam means that there is ample water throughout the year offering excellent wildlife photo opportunities. Birdlife is both varied and abundant due to the transitional nature of the highveld and sourveld habitats.

The Blyde-Olifants Conservancy (BOC) aims to establish, through its membership of privately owned game farms, a 17,000 hectare big game reserve with the potential to grow over time to in excess of 21,000 hectares. The imperative behind the establishment of the reserve is to increase the range of small privately owned farms by removing the internal boundary fences between them to develop a larger, more biodiverse and genetically viable game conservation reserve.

The Olifants Camp is situated on top of a hill which towers several hundred feet over the Olifants River, offering stunning views from the lookout platforms to the river below. The area plays host to most of the Kruger National Park’s classic larger game. Elephant are common in the area, baboon and vervet monkey both inhabit the camp, as do fruit bats and thick-tailed bush babies. Lion and leopard are regularly seen on game drives. Cape clawless otter has been seen from the Olifants lookout point on the gravel road to Letaba.

The Chobe River rises in the central Angolan plateau on the slopes of Mount Tembo. There, it is called the Kwando (a Hambukushu name), and travels enormous distances through Kalahari sands before reaching Botswana; here it becomes the Linyanti (a Subiya name) until it reaches Ngoma where it becomes the Chobe. It then runs along the northern border of Chobe National Park.

Chobe River - Giraffe drinking

Like the Okavango and Zambezi, the Chobe’s course is affected by fault lines, which are extensions of East Africa’s Great Rift Valley. These three mighty rivers carry more water than all other rivers in Southern Africa.

There is a close association between the Okavango, the Chobe and the Zambezi. The Okavango River is connected to the Chobe and Zambezi via the Selinda Spillway, where high floods from the Okavango escape from the southern end of the Panhandle and flow into the Chobe. A current theory holds that millions of years ago the Okavango, Chobe and Upper Zambezi flowed as one huge river across the middle Kalahari, joined the Limpopo River and emptied into the Indian Ocean. Earth movements stopped this flow and caused a damming back of the river and the formation of the Linyanti Swamps.

The Chobe River first flows directly south, but at Diyei, the former capital of the Bayei people, it is caught by a rift, drops out onto a swamp and then turns north through Lake Liambezi, finally turning east and passing Kasane before joining the Zambezi at Kazungula. They flow briefly together before spilling over the deep cataract at Victoria Falls.

The Chobe twists and turns through swamps of wide reed and papyrus beds, forming hidden lagoons, which sometimes fill with water lilies. Its south bank alternates from open flood plains dotted with pans to thick woodlands. Across the river from Botswana lies the Caprivi Strip – and there the scene of grazing cattle contrasts sharply with the scenes of wild animals in the Chobe National Park.

Namibia

Namibia

Susuwe Island Lodge is an opportunity to closely experience a wild and untouched island of Africa. Situated in North-Eastern Namibia, the island is in the remote Kwando River – a permanent water source which nourishes delicate ecosystems and sustains varied game and birdlife.

Chobe River - birds

Impalila Island Lodge is a 16-bedded luxury lodge with much to offer. The island is situated at the confluence of the Chobe and Zambezi rivers at the place where 4 countries meet – from the air an amazing mosaic of waterways, floodplains and bushveld – on the ground exceptional birdlife, game viewing and assorted vegetation – and in the waters outstanding fishing opportunities. Impalila is also the most secluded and remote of the Chobe destinations but close enough to offer guests the very best of the Chobe River.

Ntwala Island Lodge is the most pristine and secluded Chobe destination. Intricate floating walkways link an untouched cluster of islands within the Mambova rapids where two mighty African rivers – the Zambezi and Chobe – converge.

In the northern extremity of the Chobe National Park, along the Chobe River, is an expanse of vast floodplains and savannah called the Puku Flats. The area is renowned for its large herds of buffalo and elephant, which come to the rivers edge to drink and graze. Chobe Savanna Lodge, located on its own private concession on the Nambian side of the Chobe River, peers west out across the vast Puku flats.

On the banks of Chobe River, 25 km south of Kongola village on the Trans-Caprivi highway (400 km east of Rundu & 100 km west of Katima Mulilo) one can find Camp Kwando. There are 12 thatched tents built on pole platforms on the  island, and you can do your fishing from the wooden decks. Three treehouses are on higher ground, and about 10 camping spots under the shady trees between the island and the main buildings.

Lianshulu Lodge, one of the first private lodges built inside a Namibian National Park, is beautifully placed beneath a canopy of shady jackalberry and mangosteen trees, on the banks of the scenically stunning Kwando River. Here, in the heart of the Mudumu National Park, dry mixed woodlands stand in complete contrast to the beautiful Kwando wetland ecosystem.

Situated on the banks of the Kwando River, overlooking a tranquil hippo pool 24 km south of Kongola in the East Caprivi, Namushasha Lodge offers 27 luxury en-suite bungalows. Boat cruises and fishing trips on the Kwando river or game drives in the West Caprivi Game Park are popular activities. A 4 km hiking trail promises to surprise with over 300 recorded bird species and indigenous flora. A low-level flight over the camp will activate pick-ups from the gravel airstrip.

Botswana

Botswana

Situated on the Chobe River in the North Eastern corner of Botswana’s Chobe National Park, and twenty kilometers upstream from the confluence of the Chobe and Zambezi rivers, is a place where elephants concentrate in large herds. And Chobe Game Lodge is part of this place.

Situated on the banks of the dry Savute Channel in the heart of the world famous Chobe National Park, Savute Elephant Camp offers a magnificent birds’ eye view of elephant in their natural habitat. Savute is renowned for high concentrations of elephant and lion with high predator activity in the area, including the endangered wild dog.

Chobe River - Impalas

It is on the banks of Botswana’s fabled Stolen River, that you will find Savute Safari Lodge in a setting of remarkable beauty. The now dry Savute channel is part of the dynamic Savute eco system renowned for its large concentration of elephant and lion and their troubled relationship.

Deep in the heart of the Botswana wilderness lies Chobe Chilwero Lodge, one of the most enchanting places on earth. With gorgeous, breathtaking vistas as a backdrop, you’ll come face-to-face with the abundant creatures of the bush, and some of the most spectacular sunsets Mother Nature bestows.

Uniquely located in the North-Eastern corner of Botswana where the four African nations of Botswana, Zambia, Zimbabwe and Namibia converge, Chobe Marina Lodge is surrounded by the natural beauty of Africa. The Chobe River, Chobe National Park, Kasane Forest Reserve, the Caprivi Strip and the mighty Zambezi river, each offer their own attractions and with Victoria Falls but 70 kilometres away, Chobe Marina Lodge is an ideal base to explore this region.

Chobe Safari Lodge is situated on the banks of Chobe River in Kasane, and sharing a border with Chobe National Park.

If you’re passing through and just want to spend a night or two in Kasane itself, Liya Guest Lodge is a convenient budget place very near the airport. They will meet flights, arrange transport and, like most lodges in the area, arrange game drives.

On the banks of the mighty Chobe River lies the luxurious Mowana Safari Lodge. In this tranquil bush setting…

The Garden Lodge, in Kasane, offers only 8 rooms on the banks of the Chobe River. The small size of this establishment makes for an intimate, relaxed atmosphere in lush, tropical surroundings.

Water Lily Lodge is situated in Kasane, north-eastern Botswana, gateway to the famous Chobe National Park and just a short distance from Victoria Falls. It is a small and private lodge catering for a maximum of 20 guests.

Kubu Lodge is situated on the banks of the Chobe River, 2 km upstream from the confluence with the Zambezi, in the village of Kazungula. The property covers 30 hectares of mostly undeveloped forest reserve and is a sanctuary for the Chobe Bushbuck.

The Chobe region is home to the largest population of wild elephant in the world, estimated to number about 120,000 individuals. Their sometimes daily passage takes them from Zimbabwe through the Chobe and on into Namibia before returning. Elephant Valley Lodge lies along one of these routes and is situated in the Kasane Forest, adjacent to the Chobe National Park.

Privately owned Muchenje Safari Lodge is on an embankment overlooking the banks of the Chobe River and offers unparalleled views over the floodplain.

Saile Tented Camp is a small 8 bedded tented camp designed on the Hemingway style Meru East African tents. The camp is situated on the swaying river banks of the Linyanti Marsh in the Chobe area.

Lake Mweru (also spelled Mwelu) is a freshwater lake on the longest arm of Africa’s second-longest river, the Congo. Located on the border between Zambia and Democratic Republic of the Congo, it makes up 110 km of the total length of the Congo, lying between its Luapula River (upstream) and Luvua River (downstream) segments.

Lake Mweru, although off the beaten track, is worth a visit. The lake has spawned a dynamic population, rich in culture, fervent in trade and colorful in nature. The area is almost a microcosm of what Tropical Africa could be if left to its own devices. Tourist facilities, however are limited to a few ‘guesthouses’ of varying standards.

Water temperatures range from 21° C to 29° C, while air temperatures range from 27.5° C to 35° C. The lake is chemically very fertile and contributes substantially to the fishing industry in Zambia.

Lake Mweru is seldom visited but breathtakingly beautiful and an ideal base for exploring the lesser-known areas of Zambia. Take the ferry to one of the lake’s islands, Kilwa and Isokwe. Or just explore the coastline and visit the local villages.

Tourist facilities are limited to a few guest houses of varying standards and visitors should bring all the equipment they need because little is provided for travellers. Having said that, this area is developing quickly so it’s a good idea to check what is happening before you head out here.

This area of Zambia represents a real challenge if you want to explore it. Check with the authorities before you set out. If you accept the challenge it can provide a very special experience.

Lake Mweru - Boat on the Luapula River