Fri 20 Nov 2009
Nicknamed the ‘Platinum Province’ of South Africa, the North West Province has historically been of more interest to geologists seeking out the next big mineral mother load than to binocular toting tourists seeking big game. The area’s booming mineral industry, as well as its cultivation of citrus fruits, corn, tobacco and sunflowers have combined to send tourism plunging down on the list of income- generating industries. This is however slowly beginning to change, as small scale operators begin to exploit some of the regions new, or previous overlooked places of interest.
The North West’s climate is generally hot and dry, through out the year due to its proximity to the Kalahari Desert.
The natural landscape is dominated by bushveld, interrupted only by thicket and woodland on the rocky slopes.
The Magaliesberg mountain range and the massive Pilanesberg crater are two of the oldest geological formations on earth. The proximity of the most North West attractions to Pretoria and Johannesburg means that daytrips from these cities are quite feasible; or, let yourself be seduced by Rustenburg’s rapidly growing hospitality industry and use this quieter urban town as your base. However, be advised that in the absence of reliable inter-city transport networks, travellers are likely to need a car or tour operator to get around effectively.
