Bophirima Region

Bophirima is the western region of the North West province. Situated 1200 metres above sea level, the climate is dry and healthy, particularly in winter when the days are sunny and bracing. The summers are hot and the annual average rainfall is 430mm.

Mostly Kalahari thornveld, it is dominated by huge cattle ranches. By far South Africa's largest producer of beef, the region boasts the largest herds of Herefords in the world.

Enlightened hunting concessions have made Bophirima a popular destination for big game and wildlife trophy hunters. The vast expanse of African savannah is home to a variety of game, and privately owned game reserves include lion, buffalo and rhino.

The principal town in Bophirima is Vryburg (freedom town). Tourist attractions include the Leon Taljaardt Nature Reserve (white rhino, buffalo, wildebeest and zebra), the eclectic museum in the town hall and the nearby Swartfontein Resort.

Bophirima was previously known as Stellaland (star land). Its history is a rich tapestry that includes the importance of the region to international philatelists in search of some of the most sought after postage stamps in the world.

Stellaland, founded in 1882 as an independent republic, was always regarded as a roughneck region, dominated by frontier characters such as the legendary Scotty Smith - a convicted army deserter, gun runner, horse thief, smuggler and First World War spy. Whilst it had its own flag, coat of arms and Volksraad (parliament), the most lasting impression of the Stellaland republic is its pen-cancelled postage stamps - which are extremely rare and highly valued in the world of philately.

A museum on the farm Armoedsvlakte (poverty plains) near Vryburg marks where Sir Arnold Theiler, veterinary scientist and founder of the world-renowned veterinary research institute of Onderstepoort, started his work on animal diseases.

One of the world's most famous fossils was discovered in a lime quarry at Taung (place of the lion) in the Bophirima region of the North West in 1924. This being the skull of the Taung child (Australopithecus africanus) hailed by evolutionists as the "missing link" between man and ape.

Accommodation in the Bophirima region ranges from country hotels and guest farms to safari camps, game lodges, and bed and breakfast cottages and farmhouses.

The Bophirima region, also known as the Dr Ruth Segomotsi Mompati District Municipality, offers a variety of attractions and activities.

Here are ten things to see or do in this region:

1. Madikwe Game Reserve: One of South Africa's largest game reserves, renowned for its Big Five and diverse wildlife.

2. Taung Heritage Site: Famous for the Taung Skull Fossil Site, part of the Cradle of Humankind, where the Taung Child fossil was discovered.

3. Vryburg: Known as the Texas of South Africa, it offers historical sites, including the old prison and town museum, and hosts annual agricultural shows.

4. Molopo Nature Reserve: Offers a unique Kalahari landscape with wildlife viewing opportunities, including antelope and bird species.

5. Lehurutshe: Explore the cultural heritage and traditional lifestyle of the Batswana people in this rural area.

6. Kuruman Eye: A natural spring that delivers water at a constant rate, considered sacred by local communities.

7. Dikgatlong Dam: Ideal for fishing, picnicking, and enjoying water sports.

8. Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park: Although partially in Botswana, it extends into the North West province, offering exceptional game viewing and wilderness experiences.

9. Delareyville: Visit the Barberspan Bird Sanctuary, a paradise for bird watchers with over 350 bird species.

10. Stella: A small town with historical significance, offering insights into the region's agricultural development and local lifestyle.

These activities provide a mix of wildlife, cultural heritage, and natural beauty, making the Bophirima region an interesting destination.