Bela-Bela Tourism (2024) - South Africa > Top Places, Travel Guide

Bela-Bela Travel Essentials

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"Thermal Springs and Wildlife Encounters"

Bela-Bela Tourism

Bela-Bela, a small town in South Africa's Limpopo Province, is renowned for its geothermal hot springs, expansive nature reserves, and outdoor activities. With some of the world's hottest, the town draws visitors seeking relaxation and potential therapeutic benefits. These hot springs are primarily located at the Forever Resorts Warmbaths in Bela Bela. The Waterberg Mountain provides a stunning backdrop to these springs.

Located around two hours drive north of Johannesburg and an hour from Pretoria, Bela-Bela offers diverse outdoor experiences. From safaris in nearby game reserves to hiking, mountain biking, canoeing, and big game drives, the town caters to various interests. Complementing the springs is the Modjadji Cycad Reserve, housing the world's largest cycad collection. Despite its size, Bela-Bela provides an array of accommodations, including upscale resorts and cosy lodges, ensuring a comfortable stay for all preferences.

Local Transports: In Bela Bela, travellers have options like taxis, minibus taxis, and private hire cars for short-distance travel. To ensure a smooth journey, consider arranging transportation in advance or selecting reputable operators.
Visit Game Reserves: Bela Bela is surrounded by numerous game reserves, including Mabalingwe Nature Reserve, Mount Crocodile Farm, and Nylsvley Nature Reserve. Consider visiting them while planning your itinerary.
Forever Resorts Warmbaths: Forever Resorts Warmbaths are the most popular spot to experience Bela-Bela’s hot springs.
Self-Catering Accommodations: For self-catering stays, bring along groceries and essentials as local stores may have limited supplies.
Advance Booking: Whether in a private resort or public hot springs, consider booking a slot in advance as it can get busy.
Preferred Visit Times: Bela Bela is a favoured weekend escape for locals. Opt for weekdays if you seek a more serene visit.
Potable Tap Water: Tap water in Bela Bela is generally safe to drink.

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Hot Springs in Bela Bela

Bela Bela offers natural hot springs known for their therapeutic attributes. It produces a constant 22,000 litres per hour at 52 °C. These geothermal pools, heated by subterranean thermal activity, are famous for relaxation and wellness benefits.

Hot springs in Bela Bela can be experienced at different types of places, including resorts, lodges, and nature reserves. Noteworthy locations to enjoy these thermal waters include:

Forever Resorts Warmbaths: A family-oriented resort with varied hot and leisure pools, alongside water slides, catering to diverse age groups.
Euphoria Golf Estate & Hydro: Features tranquil hot mineral pools within its wellness centre, complemented by spa treatments.
Mabalingwe Nature Reserve: Visitors can unwind in hot mineral pools after exploring the reserve's wildlife and natural surroundings.
Kunkuru Safari Lodge: Provides a chance to relax in natural thermal springs while surrounded by the African wilderness.
Zebula Golf Estate and Spa: Combines outdoor activities, golf, and relaxation with its hot springs pools.
Diep in Die Berg: Offers mineral-rich thermal pools in a serene environment at its wellness centre.
Bela Bela Forever Resorts Day Visitors: Allows day guests to access hot springs and resort facilities.

Shopping in Bela-Bela

Visitors can explore Urchin Art pottery and C-Kat for souvenirs and beach goods, while Mooi Boutique presents stylish local clothing. Shell-related items are available at Neptune’s Cave, and Kat-Too offers a unique assortment. Bela Mall and Bela Bela Waterfront contribute to the town's retail landscape.

Nightlife in Bela-Bela

From relaxed pubs to livelier venues, visitors can enjoy a unique evening experience. Bela-Bela's Waterfront stands out for its serene ambience and waterside views, providing a tranquil setting for leisurely evenings. Legends Pub and Grill, situated at Bela Mall, offers live music, good food, and drinks in a friendly atmosphere. For an authentic South African pub feel, Bosveld Lapa provides an open-air, rustic environment.

History of Bela-Bela

Bela-Bela, previously known as Warmbaths, has a history that goes back to the 1800s. People discovered its warm springs and found them helpful for healing. Around the late 1800s, a resort was built there for people to enjoy the springs' benefits. The town's name was changed to Bela-Bela, which means "boiling-boiling" in a local language, because of the hot springs. Today, it's a popular place for tourists who want to relax and have fun in South Africa.

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How to Reach Bela-Bela

How to Reach Overview

Those arriving by air can use O.R. Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg, located roughly 180 kilometres away, followed by a 2 to 3-hour drive or shuttle ride to reach Bela Bela. For road travel, there's the option to drive, take a shuttle, or use a bus from Johannesburg (covering 200 kilometres in 2 to 3 hours) or Pretoria (approximately 130 kilometres in 1.5 to 2 hours). The Shosholoza Meyl luxury train provides a rail connection between Johannesburg and Bela Bela, with a travel time of approximately 3 to 4 hours.

How to reach Bela-Bela by flight

The nearest major airport to Bela-Bela is O.R. Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg, located about 180 kilometres (112 miles) away. From the airport, visitors can rent a car or take a shuttle service to Bela-Bela, with the drive taking approximately 2 to 3 hours, depending on traffic conditions. Flights to Johannesburg can be booked through various airlines.

How to reach Bela-Bela by road

Bela-Bela is accessible by road from Johannesburg and Pretoria. The distance from Johannesburg is around 200 kilometres (124 miles), and the drive takes roughly 2 to 3 hours. From Pretoria, the distance is approximately 130 kilometres (81 miles), with a driving time of about 1.5 to 2 hours. Visitors can travel by car, shuttle, or bus, with various operators offering services along this route.

How to reach Bela-Bela by train

While there is a rail connection to Bela-Bela, it is primarily served by the Shosholoza Meyl luxury train service, which connects Johannesburg to Bela-Bela and further destinations. The journey from Johannesburg by train takes around 3 to 4 hours.

How to reach Bela-Bela by bus

Public buses connect Johannesburg and Pretoria to Bela-Bela. The journey by bus from Johannesburg typically takes around 3 to 4 hours, while from Pretoria, it's approximately 2.5 to 3 hours.

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"Thermal Springs and Wildlife Encounters"

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