Kaoxa Campsite

A 10-minute drive takes you to the main entrance of Mapungubwe National Park: you can take guided walks and game drives from here to see lions and leopards, eland and wildebeest, or plump for atmospheric sunset and after-dark excursions for a different take. Birders flock to the treetop walk to spot a mighty confluence of feathered wonders amid the canopies of the riverine forest. For a different confluence, hike along the Limpopo boardwalk to see the teeming life of the river as it splits and creates a natural trio of borders between South Africa, Botswana and Zimbabwe. If beliefs leave traces like empires do, the Thathe Vondo Forest (three hours' drive) is where you find them. This forest of clouds and waterfalls is sacred to the Vondo people; it's worth it for the wildlife even if you don't spot the spirits said to dwell there. (Crocs certainly do, in the lake, so treat the wilderness with respect.)