Polokwane

If you are planning to visit Polokwane, the administrative capital of the Limpopo province and a vibrant transport hub in northern South Africa, you are in for an introduction to a colourful city often referred to as the gateway to the region's wildlife. When planning how to get to Polokwane, travellers can consider various options: from a quick domestic flight to a journey by car or intercity coach. The developed transport infrastructure makes it easy to create a convenient itinerary to begin your African adventure.

The fastest and most convenient way to reach Polokwane is by air. The city is served by an international airport (PTG), which handles regular domestic flights. The main air connection is established with Johannesburg, allowing for an easy itinerary with a transfer from South Africa's major international hubs.

The airport is very conveniently located — just five kilometres from the city centre. The proximity to the city limits and the compact nature of the terminal allow tourists to minimise travel time and arrive at their hotel almost immediately after landing. This makes flying an ideal choice for families and travellers who wish to save time and begin their journey through the Limpopo province in comfort.

Direct passenger rail service to the city of Polokwane is currently not a recommended mode of transport for tourists. Despite the existence of railway tracks in the region, regular passenger trains suitable for travellers are virtually non-existent or run extremely rarely on this route.

The most reliable and comfortable alternative to the railway is road transport. Tourists are advised to use intercity coaches or rent a car. Travelling by road provides flexibility in your itinerary and allows you to reach the city significantly faster while enjoying the scenic views of the Limpopo province.

Travelling by bus is one of the most popular and affordable ways to get to Polokwane. The city is situated on the country's main northern transport artery — the national N1 highway — ensuring excellent connections with major metropolises. The main flow of passengers arrives here via regular services from Johannesburg and Pretoria. This is a reliable option for those who wish to save money compared to flying, yet still travel in comfort.

The journey from Gauteng province usually takes between 3 to 4 hours, depending on traffic and the departure point. Intercity buses in South Africa are typically modern coaches equipped with air conditioning and comfortable seats, ensuring a pleasant journey. It is recommended to purchase tickets for popular routes in advance, especially during holidays and school breaks, to guarantee a seat at a convenient time.

Travelling by car on South African roads offers freedom of movement and the opportunity to enjoy the picturesque landscapes of the Limpopo province. A convenient and fast route leads to Polokwane from the town of Phalaborwa: covering a distance of about 200 km takes approximately 2.5 hours. A trip from Hoedspruit, located 215 km away, will take the same amount of time, making these directions an excellent choice for a comfortable road trip.

A longer journey awaits tourists heading from Londolozi, from where the road stretches about 324 km and takes just over 5 hours. As an alternative to personal transport, you can consider booking a taxi or a transfer; however, for such long intercity trips, this can be quite a costly option, so many travellers prefer renting a car directly at the airport or city of arrival.

Preparing for your trip to Polokwane will help make your journey through South Africa as comfortable and safe as possible. We have compiled a list of key recommendations for you, allowing you to easily navigate local realities and avoid common mistakes.

1. Clothing and Essentials. The climate here is quite warm, so modest, light clothing made from natural fabrics is an ideal choice. However, if you are travelling in winter (from May to August), nights can be cold — be sure to bring a warm jacket or sweater. Comfortable closed shoes are useful for walking and nature excursions.
2. Transport. Public transport may seem chaotic and complex to tourists. To move around the city and its surroundings, it is highly recommended to rent a car or use official taxi services. This ensures route flexibility and personal safety for you and your family.
3. Finances. The national currency is the South African Rand (ZAR). Most hotels, restaurants, and shopping centres accept credit cards, but it is necessary to carry a small amount of cash for parking, tips, and purchases at local souvenir markets.
4. Health and Safety. The city itself is considered a low-risk zone for malaria, but if you plan trips to reserves east of the city, consult a doctor regarding prophylaxis. Drink only bottled water and observe standard precautions: do not walk alone after dark and keep an eye on your belongings.
5. Communication. English is one of the official languages and is widely used in business and tourism. You will easily be able to communicate with staff in hotels and restaurants. Locals are generally very welcoming and ready to help if you address them politely in English.
6. Local Etiquette. South Africans value politeness. It is customary to greet staff in shops and taxi drivers. A traditional greeting is often accompanied by a handshake. In restaurants, it is considered good manners to leave a tip of 10–15% of the bill for quality service.
7. What to Avoid. Never leave valuables, bags, phones, or cameras on car seats, even if you are stepping out for just a couple of minutes. This may attract unwanted attention. Place everything in the boot before arriving at your parking spot.
8. Sun Protection. The sun in the Limpopo province is very strong. Even in cloudy weather, be sure to use high-factor sunscreen, wear a head covering, and use sunglasses to avoid burns and heatstroke.

Following these simple rules will allow you to focus on the beauty of nature and the cultural features of the region without being distracted by minor inconveniences. Polokwane is a hospitable city that will offer you many bright impressions with proper trip planning.