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Mokolo

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Mokolo Dam, previously known as Hans Strijdom Dam, is a rock-fill dam situated on the Mokolo River approximately 32 km south of Lephalale in Limpopo Province. Established in 1980, it is the largest dam in Limpopo and sits within the 4,600-hectare Mokolo Dam Nature Reserve, which is surrounded by the Waterberg Biosphere. The Malmanies River and Bulspruit River, both tributaries of the Mokolo, feed into the dam from its left side. The reserve covers 46 km² of bushveld terrain featuring both sourveld and sweetveld vegetation, with dramatic cliffs and mountains forming the backdrop.

Paddling activities including canoeing and kayaking are available on the dam, and boating is also permitted. However, paddlers must be aware of a significant safety hazard: crocodiles and hippos are present in the water, and conventional water sports are explicitly discouraged by the reserve management for this reason. Any paddling should be undertaken with this risk clearly in mind.

The dam supports a variety of fish species including largemouth bass, bream, carp, and catfish, making it popular with anglers. Bass of over 4 kg have been reported. The reserve is also well regarded for birding. Sunset cruises are a noted activity on the water.

Facilities at the reserve are basic. Camping is available without electricity, with basic ablution facilities provided. There is no formal accommodation within the reserve. Picnic spots are available around the dam for day visitors.

The reserve is located just northeast of Marakele National Park and not far from the Lapalala Game Reserve, placing it within a broader wildlife corridor. The surrounding Waterberg area is characterized by bushveld and rocky terrain, contributing to the remote character of the dam. Wind at the dam site tends to come from the northeast and east, with speeds typically light to moderate, though gusts can be significant on certain days.

Contact for inquiries can be directed to Limpopo Wildlife Resorts at +27 15 293 8015 or reservations.lwr@ledet.gov.za.


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