Tshokwane Trading Post

Under the shade of a great sausage tree (Kigelia africana) and surrounded by the open, untamed bush, guests that stop at Tshokwane Trading Post & Picnic Site can look forward to stoep-style seating, authentically-South African fare, colourful, hand-crafted souvenirs and so much more.

Tshokwane was established in 1928, initially as a ranger post by Kruger Park’s first warden - James Stevenson-Hamilton, and was named after a local Shangaan chief, known as Chokwane.

The site actually went through a revamp several years ago, further enhancing its appeal to guests that make their way from camps in the south of the Kruger National Park, like Skukuza and Pretoriuskop Rest Camp to the ones in the north.

This trading post is also surely one of the stops that you’ll make if you decide to embark on some of the game drive routes between Skukuza and Satara Rest Camp.

Should you stop at Tshokwane for a bite to eat (or just to stretch your legs) on your Kruger safari, the seating area is covered by an incredibly-beautiful sausage tree and is definitely a stunning sight in itself.

The look and feel of this trading post is vintage and genuine, and takes you on an almost nostalgic journey back in time to another era in South Africa’s history with its rustic decor and stoep-style seating. Our advice is to allow yourself to truly, slow down and relax here, while you take in the sights and smells around you.

You’ll find restrooms at Tshokwane, a souvenir shop (with mugs, artistic animal figures, t-shirts and snacks for the road), as well and what many consider to be some of the best coffee around, including a special Tshokwane blend.

Hearty, wholesome meals - cooked on an open fire - and sweet treats can also be found here and include a number of South African favourites, like pap and wors with tomato relish, frikkadels, slap chips, milk tart, freshly-baked carrot cake and more… though keep in mind that the menu does change from time to time but still aims to offer guests authentic, quality cuisine.

Tshokwane Picnic Site is found along a tarred road and can be accessed via the H1-2 from Skukuza Rest Camp, or even the H10 from Lower Sabie.

The area around Tshokwane is known to have some incredible lion (Panthera leo) sightings - the pride of the Big 5 (pun intended!).

Having said this, you’re sure to see a variety of other wildlife and birdlife as well, including elephants (Loxodonta africana) - especially in and around dry riverbeds, kudu (Tragelaphus strepsiceros), vervet monkeys (Chlorocebus pygerythrus), buffalo (Syncerus caffer), giraffe (Giraffa camelopardalis) and even birds like the bright and beautiful, lilac-breasted roller (Coracias caudatus).

If you’re exploring the Kruger National Park in your own vehicle but would like some help in booking accommodation at one of the park’s many rest camps, you can contact Monya at monya@outlook.co.za or on +27 (0)10 010 0140 and she will be happy to assist you.

So whether you’re stopping for breakfast or lunch, or to grab a cup of coffee before you hit the road again, be sure to add Tshokwane Trading Post & Picnic Site to your must-see list on your next Kruger Park safari

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