Lake Fundudzi

Fundudzi is one of very few true inland lakes in South Africa, dammed naturally when an ancient landslip blocked the Mutale River valley in the Soutpansberg, and about five kilometres by three when full. What matters more than the geology is that it is sacred ground to the Venda people. The lake is associated with the python god of fertility and with ancestral spirits; a traditional custodian family holds responsibility for it, ceremonies are performed at the water, and the customary way of greeting the lake is to turn your back and view it bent over between your legs. Swimming, fishing and casual visits are not permitted, and access requires permission from the traditional authority - visitors who arrive expecting a picnic spot are turned away, correctly. Viewpoints on the road above give a distant look across the water, and that is what most outsiders see. Thathe Vondo forest nearby is sacred in the same tradition.

What's there

• The landslide lake - one of the few true inland lakes in the country.
• The sacred status - a site of Venda ceremony with a custodian family responsible for it.
• The distance view - roadside viewpoints, which is as close as most visitors get.
• The access rule - permission from the traditional authority, or nothing.

When to go

April to September. Half a day, if permission has been arranged in advance.

Practical notes

This is not a tourist attraction and should not be treated as one - no swimming, no fishing, no arriving unannounced. Permission goes through the traditional authority and is not always given. Roads are winding and rough. Respect for the customs is the price of entry, and it is a fair one.

Nearby

Thathe Vondo forest is close; Thohoyandou is the regional town.

Key facts