The geographical Line of Latitude that lies approximately 23 degrees south of the Equator is called the Tropic of Capricorn. This line runs through Southern Africa, Australia and South America. In South Africa the Tropic of Capricorn runs through the northern part of Limpopo Province (formerly Northern Transvaal) and gives its name to the area called the Capricorn region.
The Capricorn region stretches from the Ysterberg along the lower stretches of the Wolkberg Mountains until it reaches the Tropic of Capricorn in the north of the province which is identified by a geographical landmark not far north of Polokwane (originally Pietersburg). Polokwane is the largest and most important urban centre north of Gauteng.
The Capricorn region has a varied landscape with a mix of mist shrouded mountains, grassy plains, amazing geological formations and a diversity of animal and plant life, but it is best known for its bushveld areas.
Visitors to the area will also find an interesting collection of game reserves, dams and forests, cultural villages and San art. There are also many historical sites representing Voortrekker history especially evident in the small town of Mokopane (previously Potgietersrus) with its National Zoo’s Breeding Centre, housing some very rare animals. Also of interest in Mokopane is the Arend Dieperink Museum housed in an elegant stone building that was previously a school and displaying a valuable collection of Voortrekker and Sotho artefacts and not to be forgotten are the Makopans Caves in the Makopans Valley.
In general the Capricorn region of Limpopo province has something of interest for everybody. Accommodation in the area is varied and offers a wide choice of Hotels, Game Lodges, Guest Houses, B&B’s and Self Catering to suit all requirements and budgets.