Introducing Mafikeng & Surrounds

The city of Mahikeng / Mafikeng is located in the North West Province of South Africa.   The original name of the city, Mahikeng, stands for 'the place among rocks'.  Mahikeng's / Mafikeng's name refers to the volcanic rocks which provided temporary shelter to Stone Age humans in their hunt on animals drinking water in the Molopo River. This name was given to the area in 1852 by early BaRolong chiefs who had settled along the river, near the present day village of Rooigrond.

Mahikeng / Mafikeng is a vibrant provincial and commercial capital and a major tourism attraction in regards to its history, culture and wildlife. Historical reminders of the South African Anglo Boer War, the Mafikeng Siege and the Boy Scouts can be found here. Although the city prides itself on these three historically important events, there is much more to he seen in Mahikeng / Mafikeng.

Attractions in and around Mahikeng / Mafikeng, North West Province (South Africa)

Mafikeng Museum

At the Mafikeng Museum displays of extensive ethnographic and Anglo-Boer War exhibits can be seen.

Kanon Kopje

To the south east of Mafikeng, one can find the Kanon Kopje which is a defensive fort built during the Warren Expedition of 1885.

Sol Plaatje

In Mafikeng, there are several sites linking to the famous Sol Plaatje which was a South African politician, journalist, campaigner for human rights, novelist and translator.

Mafikeng Game Reserve

The 4600 ha Mafikeng Game Reserve is home to a wide variety of game and is one of the principal breeding parks for the White Rhino.

Lion enclosure and crocodile camp: Manyane Game Lodge

The Manyane Game Lodge features a lion enclosure and crocodile camp.

Botsalano Game Reserve

30 km west of Mafikeng, the Botsalano Game Reserve is a popular weekend attraction for game viewing.

Heritage House

The Heritage House which is situated at the entrance to Mafikeng on the Lichtenburg Road houses the Head Office of the North West Parks and Tourism Board at Cookes Lake.

Lotlamoreng Cultural Reserve and Montshiwua Dam

To the south of the road to Vryburg, one can find the Lotlamoreng Cultural Reserve and Montshiwua Dam.  A cultural village, recreational area and a demarcated waterfowl sanctuary await the visitor. At the Modimola Dam, angling and picnics can be enjoyed.

Mmabana Cultural Centre

The Mmabana Cultural Centre presents music and many artistic disciplines through numerous practical workshops and exhibitions.

Mmabatho Conference Centre

The Mmabatho Conference Centre in the North West Province of South Africa has facilities to host up to 6,000 delegates and is centrally located for transport and hotels.

Vast underwater network of caves, North West Province

Moving to the east the inland diving venue at Wondergat, a vast underwater network of caves used principally for diving instruction.