Bird Watching in Bela-Bela

Bela-Bela, formerly known as Warmbaths, is a town in Limpopo Province famous for its natural hot springs that have drawn visitors for over a century. The town serves as a popular weekend getaway destination, particularly for those seeking thermal spa experiences and access to nearby game reserves.

Bela-Bela sits approximately 100 kilometres north of Pretoria along the N1 highway, making it easily accessible for travellers from Gauteng. The town's name means 'boiling-boiling' in Setswana, a reference to the hot mineral springs that bubble up at a constant temperature of around 53 degrees Celsius. These springs have been the foundation of the town's tourism industry since the early 1900s, when the first resort was established to capitalise on the therapeutic properties of the mineral-rich waters.

The Waterberg mountain range provides a scenic backdrop to the town and offers opportunities for hiking and nature observation. Several private game reserves in the surrounding area allow visitors to experience the Big Five and other African wildlife without travelling to more distant national parks. The climate is generally warm and dry, with summer rainfall between November and March.

For those planning an extended stay, Bela-Bela accommodation ranges from self-catering units to resort-style properties with full spa facilities. The town itself has grown to include shopping centres, restaurants, and medical facilities that serve both residents and the steady flow of visitors. Adventure activities available in the area include zip-lining, quad biking, and horse riding.

The Forever Resort Warmbaths remains one of the most well-known establishments, featuring multiple swimming pools fed by the natural hot springs. Day visitors and overnight guests can access the facilities, which include water slides and family entertainment areas. Other thermal resorts in the area offer more intimate spa experiences focused on wellness and relaxation.

Bela-Bela functions as a convenient base for exploring the wider Waterberg region. The town's position on a major highway means it often serves as a stopover point for travellers heading further north to Polokwane or the Kruger National Park. Local farming activities include cattle ranching and game farming, which contribute to the area's economy alongside tourism.