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The 97 kilometer road down the escarpment from Polokwane to Tzaneen is one of the most popular tourist drives in South Africa. It passes through a splendid variety of scenery, with side roads leading to scenic viewing sites. Magoebaskloof gets its name from Makgoba, chief of the small Tlou tribe who lived at the foot of the Mountain. In 1894 Makgoba and his people refused to pay taxes to the govt. A punitive force was sent to teach the tribe a lesson. Makgoba and roughly 500 of his followers fled deep into forest of the mountain and refused to come out. After several months and many brawls the government obtained the help of Swazi warriors. They were experts at tracking, and captured two Tlou women. They killed one and tortured the other; the woman eventually told them where to find the chief. The Swazis surrounded the Tlou tribe, mocking them and hissing their peculiar war cry. Makgoba was challenged by the Swazi commander. The two men fought with spears and clubs in the forest. Makgoba was beaten and batterd to his knees, the Swazis cut off his head and carried it back to claim reward money from the government. The Tlou tribe was dispersed, but the name Magoba will forever linger on the beautiful mountain edge, with its high forest full of mystery. Attractions and Things To Do in Magoebaskloof Amazing Maze Planted and developed on a traditional maze design, this hedge of brain-teasing passages promises to give a third dimension to your holiday of relaxation. Tel Di Blight on (015) 305 3137 Sunset Queen Houseboat The "Sunset Queen" is based at Ebenezer dam and offers day cruises. For sailing times please telephone 015 276 4972 Mountain Biking There are plenty of rides to be explored in this area. There are rides suitable for the novice, the expert as well as the adventuress ABSEILING Abseiling in Magoebaskloof area is run by qualified and highly experienced instructors.A very popular outdoor sport. Trout Fishing Spots There are only two open to the public, Lakeside and the Dap Naude Dam, no bookings are required at these spots. However, visitors are expected to follow the ground rules which have been laid down. Picnic Spots: Wagtail Waterfall Picnic and Camping Site For more information telephone Rob or Denise on 083 627 2551 Cheerio Gardens For more information telephone Jane on (015) 276 4924 or 083 263 7663 Debengeni Falls ("Place of Pots" - N. Sotho) Situated at the foot of the Magoebaskloof. There is a R10.00 entrance fee Modjadji Cycad Forest An entrance fee of R15.00 per car, R10 for adults and R5 for children is payable. Old Smokey at Ebenezer Dam There is a small cost of R15.00 for adults and R5.00 for kids payable at the site. Phone 015 276 2012 / 015 276 5047 Kurisa Moya Enjoy beautiful views. R20.00 per person entrance fee. Take you own picnic basket or have one made up for you (2 days notice) R50.00 per person. Phone Ben or Lisa on 015 276 1131 / 082 200 4596 Mountain Yacht Club Situated at Ebenezer Dam, day visitors are welcome to picnic at the Yacht Club at R10.00 per adult and R5.00 per child. Phone 015 293 2333 Pekoe View Tea Garden and Restaurant and Sapekoe Tea Estate Daily tours of the tea factory take place at 11h00 and attract a great number of tourists. After the tour, what better thing to do than visit the Tea Garden. The pancakes, both savoury and sweet, are amazing and the chocolate cake is ‘absolutely to die for, Doll!’ The Tea Garden is open daily from 10h00 to 17h00. Nurseries: The
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