Gems to discover: Limpopo, South Africa

South Africa offers many highlights which are obviously great to put on the list when planning your trip. Yet combining them with some hidden gems or more undiscovered places makes your trip trueley unique.

One of the lesser known areas of South Africa is in the far north. The province of Limpopo however has such a diverse scenery and climate that it's so worth a visit. Most travelers will come here for the Kruger national Park - an absolute highlight if you are visiting in the right season - yet won't step outside of the National park to explore this province. Which is a shame. And here is why...

Limpopo borders with Botswana, Zimbabwe and Mozambique and gets her name from the impopo river which meanders through. It has mountains, endless bushveld and so much wildlife to discover. For active families it is great stop for hiking, rafting, zip-lining, and fishing to name a few and forest visits. It might at times feel more like being in Switzerland than South Africa. For families with younger kids or just not as active, the Magoebaskloof drive down to the Tzaneen takes you from pine forest to mango groves, passing some lovely lunch and coffee stops on the way.

In terms of staying the night, the choice is yours. There are some beautiful boutique stays, rustic family hotels and some stunning camp sites with chalets if you are not traveling with a tents. Our absolute favorite here was staying at Zwakala. We camped by the river that the kids would raft in during the day (no worries, no crocodiles here...). They also offer beautiful chalets and, maybe best of all, there is a brewery where you can get your dinner and home made beer. Luca and his family run this hidden gem in Limpopo. Be sure not to miss it if you are on that side of the world.

Meerkat Travel Tip: Fly to Johannesburg Drive to Zwakala (4 hr drive) for a few nights and discover Magoebaskloof

Drive to Kruger national Park (2,5 hr drive) and stay in two or three different lodges For longer stays: combine it with a few days in Mozambique on the beach (4 rd drive)