Cooke’s Lake Resort is the perfect destination for those seeking a peaceful retreat in the heart of Mahikeng

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Picture: Cooke’s Lake Resort

By OBAKENG MAJE

11 October 2026 – Cookes Lake Resort is the perfect destination for those seeking a peaceful retreat in the heart of Mahikeng. Surrounded by breath-taking natural beauty, our resort offers a serene and tranquil atmosphere, making it an ideal escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.

Our luxurious accommodations provide all the modern amenities you need for a comfortable stay, while our dedicated staff is always available to cater to your every need. Whether you prefer to relax and enjoy the picturesque surroundings or indulge in a range of outdoor activities, Cookes Lake Resort has something for everyone. Come and experience the ultimate in comfort and luxury, book your stay with us today.

Looking for a cozy and comfortable stay in Mahikeng? Our chalet accommodation at Cookes Lake Resort offers the perfect blend of luxury and privacy. Each chalet is tastefully furnished and equipped with all the modern amenities you need for a comfortable stay, including air conditioning, private bathrooms, and kitchenettes.

Our chalets are set amidst picturesque surroundings, offering stunning views of the lake and lush greenery. Whether you’re traveling with family, friends, or on a romantic getaway, our chalets provide the perfect base for exploring the beautiful Mahikeng region. Come and experience the ultimate in comfort and luxury.

Restaurant

We offer more than just luxurious accommodation and beautiful surroundings. Our on-site restaurant serves up a delectable range of dishes, featuring fresh and locally sourced ingredients, sure to satisfy even the most discerning taste buds.

Enjoy a delicious meal while taking in the serene surroundings of the lake and lush greenery. Our restaurant provides the perfect complement to your stay, offering an unforgettable culinary experience. Don’t miss out on this unique opportunity.

Conference and Event Facilities

If you’re looking for a stunning and versatile venue for your next conference or event, look no further than Cookes Lake Resort. Our state-of-the-art conference facilities can accommodate up to 150 guests, with a range of modern amenities, including high-speed internet and audiovisual equipment.

Our team of dedicated event planners is on hand to help you plan every aspect of your event, from catering to decor, ensuring a seamless and stress-free experience.

The serene and picturesque surroundings provide the perfect backdrop for weddings, corporate events, and other special occasions. Let us help you create an unforgettable event.

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Magaliesburg is a small, historic country town in Mogale City

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Picture: Magaliesburg

By REGINALD KANYANE

11 October 2026 – Magaliesburg is a small, historic country town in Mogale City, West Rand, Gauteng, South Africa, situated about 80 to 90 minutes west of Johannesburg and Pretoria. Nestled below the Witwatersrand range, with the rugged Magaliesberg mountain range visible to the north.

Named after Chief Kgosi Môgale Wa Môgale of the BaPô ba Mogale clan (“burg” meaning town and “berg” meaning mountain in Afrikaans). Known as a peaceful weekend breakaway, craft haven, and agricultural hub driven heavily by tourism, self-catering lodges, and small farms.

Hiking and swimming at Mountain Sanctuary Park, the Magaliesberg Canopy Tour, and river trails. Sunrise flights available via operators like Bill Harrop’s Balloon Safaris.

Close proximity to the Cradle of Humankind World Heritage Site and the historic Blaauwbank Gold Mine. Classic heritage rail trips via Reefsteamers steam train journeys from Johannesburg.

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The Molemane Eye Nature Reserve is a charming, rustic getaway

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Picture: The Molemane Eye Nature Reserve

By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI

11 October 2026 – The Molemane Eye Nature Reserve is a charming, rustic getaway situated in the North West Province of South Africa, approximately 11 kilometres from Ottoshoop along the road between Lichtenburg and Zeerust. Managed by the North West Parks and Tourism Board, this compact reserve is centered around a powerful natural spring (the “Eye”) that pumps roughly 2.25 million litres of crystal-clear water daily.

It serves as an accessible weekend escape for nature lovers, campers, and families traveling from the North West and nearby Gauteng.

The central highlight is a deep natural well. Half of its pristine water filters into a local dam, while the other half turns a historic water wheel powering an old mill. The mill is a registered national monument and offers a captivating look into the area’s rich history.

The tranquil dam serves as an excellent backdrop for the reserve’s campsites. It is highly popular for catch-and-release bass fishing, though explicit rules apply (only artificial lures and barbless hooks are permitted, and live bait is strictly forbidden).

While traditionally a small sanctuary for diverse birdlife and smaller indigenous animals, ongoing conservation efforts by the province include game-stocking initiatives to host larger species like eland, sable, buffalo, and rhino.

For overnight stays, the reserve offers rustic and authentic accommodation options, including dedicated campsites spread out along the water’s edge and basic chalets/tented camp facilities. The reserve features well-maintained picnic tables, public restrooms, and braai (barbecue) grids, making it a highly family-friendly location for a relaxed day outing.

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The Sun City Resort is a world-renowned luxury resort and entertainment complex

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Picture: Sun City Resort

By BAKANG MOKOTO

11 October 2026 – The Sun City Resort is a world-renowned luxury resort and entertainment complex located in the North West Province of South Africa, approximately a two-hour drive northwest of Johannesburg near Rustenburg. A signature tropical water park featuring a large artificial beach, a roaring lagoon with periodic 2-meter waves, and thrilling water slides.

Four distinct hotels catering to various styles, including the ultra-luxury 5-star The Palace of the Lost City, the Cascades, the Soho Hotel & Casino, and the family-friendly The Cabanas. Two 18-hole championship golf courses—the Gary Player Country Club (home to the annual Nedbank Golf Challenge) and The Lost City Golf Course.

• Safari & Wildlife: Directly borders the malaria-free Pilanesberg National Park, offering Big Five game drives, hot air balloon safaris, and animal sanctuaries.

Features the Sun City Casino, the Sun Central entertainment arena, the massive Superbowl concert venue, and the Southern Hemisphere’s largest permanent maze (The Maze of the Lost City)

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Botsalano Game Reserve serves as a crucial, prolific breeding ground for white rhinos and various antelope species used to restock other provincial parks

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Picture: Botsalano Game Reserve  

By AGISANANG SCUFF

11 October 2026 – Botsalano Game Reserve is a rugged 5 800 hectare wildlife reserve located in the North West Province of South Africa, right along the Botswana border near Mahikeng and the Ramatlabama border post. Managed by the North West Parks and Tourism Board, it serves as a crucial, prolific breeding ground for white rhinos and various antelope species used to restock other provincial parks. It features an open Kalahari thornveld ecosystem, wide-open grasslands, Acacia woodlands, and unique termite sandcastles. Geologically, it sits on the site of one of the oldest volcanic craters in the world, which extends right across the border into Botswana.

The reserve is home to over 2 000 head of animals, including white rhinos, Cape buffaloes, giraffes, zebras, and numerous antelopes like gemsbok (oryx), eland, and springbok. It is also a premier birding hotspot with more than 200 recorded bird species. There are no major dangerous large predators (like lions or leopards), making the atmosphere exceptionally peaceful.

For overlanders and 4×4 enthusiasts, Botsalano is famous for its wild, remote, and unfenced bush campsites (such as Lerako Camp, Laorara, and Sentry Hill) which let you experience the African wilderness completely uninterrupted. It also offers solar-powered, self-catering tented units overlooking a local dam.

Ensure you use Gate 3 to enter the park. GPS navigation systems frequently route travelers toward Gate 2, which is permanently closed, or Gate 1, which is strictly reserved for park management.

The reserve operates on a strictly rustic basis. There are no shops inside, so you must bring all your own supplies—including firewood, food, and drinking water. Recent traveler accounts note that the permanent tented camps are basic and have faced maintenance issues, so self-contained camping is highly recommended.

While there is an extensive road network suitable for most vehicles, conditions can get rough or sandy; high-clearance vehicles or 4x4s are preferred, especially if heading deep into the bush camps.

Are you planning a day trip or looking to book overnight camping at Botsalano? I can provide you with the current gate operating hours or guide you on how to contact their central reservation office.

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A man sentenced to 30 years imprisonment for murder and robbery

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By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI

11 October 2026 – An accused, Greyton Cloete (27) was sentenced to 30 years imprisonment by the Springbok Regional Court for murder and robbery of a farmer, Edward Coetsee (66) at Kalkfontein Farm in Okiep. The incident occurred on 12 November 2020, at approximately 2am, when two suspects allegedly entered the victim’s farmhouse and demanded money.

The Namakwa District police spokesperson, Captain Ivan Magerman said when Coetsee informed them that he had no money, the suspects attempted to take his personal belongings before brutally assaulting him. Magerman said the victim sustained life-threatening injuries and was subsequently found and transported to hospital, where he later succumbed to his injuries.

“The suspects fled the scene with his personal belongings. In June 2023, following meticulous investigative work by Detective Captain Hermie Beukes, Cloete was apprehended and arrested. During the course of the investigation, he confessed to his involvement in the murder and robbery.

“Further investigative work, supported by DNA evidence, subsequently linked a second suspect to the crime. Both accused remained in custody. The Springbok Regional Court recently sentenced Cloete to 20 years imprisonment for murder, of which two years were suspended for five years, resulting in an effective sentence of 18 years imprisonment.

“He was also sentenced to 10 years imprisonment for robbery. The court ordered that the sentences run concurrently. Cloete was also declared unfit to possess a firearm in terms of Section 103 of the Firearms Control Act,” he said.

Magerman further said the SAPS management in the Namakwa District commends Beukes for his dedication, perseverance and thorough investigative work, which contributed to securing the conviction and ensuring that the perpetrator was held accountable for his actions. He added that the SAPS remains committed to investigating serious and violent crimes and bringing perpetrators before the courts.

“This conviction serves as a reminder that, even when investigations are complex and justice takes time, the SAPS will continue to pursue cases to ensure accountability and justice for victims and their families,” said Magerman.

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Prayer service unites law enforcement officials

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Picture: Prayer service unites law enforcement officials/Supplied

By REGINALD KANYANE

11 October 2026 – The members of various law enforcement agencies in the Northern Cape, including the South African Police Service (SAPS), Department of Correctional Services, Traffic Department and South African National Defence Force (SANDF), gathered at CRC Kimberley on 11 October 2026, for a prayer service. The service provided an opportunity for law enforcement officials to unite in prayer, seeking divine guidance, protection, strength and wisdom in the execution of their duties.

The Northern Cape police spokesperson, Captain Thando Mnisi said senior officials in attendance included the Northern Cape Police Commissioner, General Koliswa Otola, Deputy Provincial Commissioner for Policing, Major General Johnny Besnaar, Brigadier Samuel Mathe, Brigadier Mashay Gamieldien and Station Commanders, alongside other senior managers from the participating departments. Mnisi said the gathering underscored the importance of faith, unity and collaboration among law enforcement agencies, reaffirming their shared commitment to serving and protecting the communities of the Northern Cape with dedication, integrity and compassion.

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289 suspects nabbed for various crimes during Operation Shanela II

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Picture: The police during Operation Shanela II/Supplied

By OBAKENG MAJE

11 October 2026 – More than 289 suspects were arrested for various offences during Operation Shanela II between 5 and 11 October 2026. The police in the Northern Cape said they will continue to intensify its crime-fighting efforts through high-density, multi-disciplinary operations.

The Northern Cape police spokesperson, Warrant Officer Molefi Shemane said the operations, conducted across all five districts in collaboration with various law enforcement agencies, form part of the ongoing efforts to clamp down on criminal activities and strengthen police visibility as the SAPS ramps up its Safer Festive Season operations. Shemane said with the festive season approaching, the police are deploying more boots on the ground through intensified patrols, roadblocks, Vehicle Check Points (VCPs) and targeted crime prevention operations.

“These proactive interventions are aimed at disrupting criminal activities, removing illegal firearms and dangerous weapons from circulation, apprehending wanted suspects and ensuring the safety and security of residents and visitors to the Northern Cape.

“During the reporting period, law enforcement officials stopped and searched 6 824 individuals and 3 862 vehicles at VCPs and roadblocks along national and provincial roads,” he said.

Shemane further said the operations resulted in the arrest of 289 suspects for various offences, including drug dealing, possession of drugs, attempted murder, assault with intent to cause Grievous Bodily Harm (GBH), common assault, burglary, malicious damage to property and offences relating to undocumented persons, among other crimes. He added that as part of efforts to enforce compliance with legislation, liquor premises found operating without the required licences or failing to comply with applicable legal requirements were closed.

“A total of 19 fines were issued during the operations. Law enforcement officials also confiscated various items linked to criminal activities, including cell phones, copper cables, dangerous weapons, alcoholic beverages, ammunition, drugs and cash. The provincial management commended the participating law enforcement agencies for their continued collaboration and commitment to the fight against crime.

“The integrated approach, which combines resources, expertise and operational capacity, remains critical in addressing crime and ensuring a coordinated response to threats to community safety. As the province intensifies its Safer Festive Season campaign, the police will maintain a heightened operational presence in crime hotspots and other identified areas of concern,” said Shemane.

He said the focus will remain on visible policing, targeted interventions, the prevention of serious and violent crime and the enforcement of the law to ensure that criminals have no place to hide. Shemane said the police call on communities to support these efforts by remaining vigilant and reporting criminal activities to the police.

“Members of the public are encouraged to report information that may assist in preventing or solving crime through the SAPS Crime Stop line on 08600 10111 or by using the MySAPS App.

“The Northern Cape SAPS remains resolute in its commitment to building safer communities through sustained crime prevention operations, increased police visibility and strengthened partnerships with other law enforcement agencies and community structures,” he said.

Shemane said together, through collective action and vigilance, they can work towards a safer, crime-free Northern Cape this festive season and beyond.

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Tswaing Meteorite Crater is one of the best-preserved meteorite impact craters in the world

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Picture: Tswaing Meteorite Crater

By AGISANANG SCUFF

10 October 2026 – According to ditsong.org.za, some 220 000 years ago a blazing stony meteorite the size of half a football field slammed into the earth’s crust. The impact formed a huge crater, 1.4 km in diameter and 200m deep.

Tswaing Meteorite Crater is one of the best-preserved meteorite impact craters in the world. The name “Tswaing” means place of salt in Setswana and refers to a saline lake that covers the crater floor.

From 1912 to 1950, an industry producing soda ash and salt operated at the crater. Major attractions, besides the crater, are an extensive wetland system, the large variety of plant species of the Sourish-Mixed Bushveld, and 240 species of birds.

From the start, the Tswaing project has invited community participation in its planning and development. Local communities have already benefited from the Museum project through job creation, skills training, environmental education, income-generating projects and tourism.

Annual Heritage Day event involving local dance, song, cuisine

Annual careers week for older school learners and the public with a focus on heritage environment and tourism careers. Education programmes including map work, guided tours that include indigenous knowledge of the local beliefs, plants and area, as well as the history of Tswaing.

Site available for film and photo shoots. Kgotla in traditional style huts situated around a lapa area (accommodates 64 people)

Well-established picnic area with basic camping facilities. The Tswaing Meteorite Crater was formed approximately 220000 years ago when a stony meteorite about half the size of a football field slammed into the Earth’s crust.

An asteroid or chondrite meteorite roughly 30 to 50 meters in diameter struck the Bushveld Igneous Complex granite base. The impact left a bowl-shaped crater measuring roughly 1.13 km to 1.4 km in diameter and 100 to 200 meters deep.

Geologists once debated whether the feature was volcanic, though rock analysis eventually confirmed its meteorite origin. Early humans were drawn to the area 300,000 to 150,000 years ago for the water, salt, and surrounding wildlife.

From 1912 to 1950, a commercial enterprise operated inside the crater to produce salt and soda ash, historically known as the Pretoria Saltpan or Soutpan. Managed by the Ditsong Museums of South Africa, the 1,946 to 2,000-hectare reserve features a 7.2-km hiking trail, a museum, old mining machinery remains, and a wetland supporting over 240 bird species.

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Madikwe Game Reserve, A Perfect Safari Destination

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Picture: Madikwe Game Reserve

By BAKANG MOKOTO

10 October 2026 – Situated on the border with Botswana close to the Kalahari Desert, Madikwe Game Reserve is the fifth-largest game reserve in South Africa.

As one of the lesser-known reserves, this hidden gem is regarded as one of the best conservation areas in Africa and offers visitors a Big 5 safari experience over 750km².

Roughly a 4.5-hour drive from Johannesburg and Pretoria, Madikwe offers a number of luxurious lodges as well as community lodges in a malaria-free zone. Let Madikwe Travel Experts assist you with planning your perfect holiday.

As accommodation specialists with many years of experience, their team will help create your dream wilderness experience. Before Madikwe was an official game reserve, work had already begun to remove many of the derelict farm buildings, non-indigenous plants and the hundreds of kilometres of old fencing.

Many of these old buildings have been spared and turned into workshops and park offices. Some of the outposts have also been left and are being used to house reserve staff and game scouts.

The area where Madikwe Game Reserve stands today was previously farming land, used for farming cattle and arable agriculture.

The farming culture in the area was largely a failure, due to bad farming practices and mismanagement and the vegetation had degraded to unusable levels.

This land has been opened up to a few select private farms. The farm owners are required to abide by Parks Board rules as there are still restrictions as to where private vehicles can drive.

Other developments include community lodges that are run by local villages. The profits from these community lodges are then used to uplift local communities.

Madikwe Game Reserve consists of vast open plains of woodlands and grasslands. The reserve is bisected by the rugged Rant van Tweedepoort and is bordered in the south by the Dwarsberg Mountains.

It has been enclosed in a 150km perimeter electric fence to protect larger animals. The famous Mafikeng Road runs through the area and was a historical route long before the reserve was established.

Its path was used by traders, missionaries and explorers. King Mzilikazi of the Matebele tribe passed through the Madikwe area many years ago on his way to expanding the Matebele kingdom.

In 1991, the reserve was announced to the public and in the same year became part of the Board’s Estate on October 31. Before this the remote and economically dejected area needed upliftment and it was decided after a feasibility study that wildlife-based tourism was the most favourable option for the area.

It is one of the few game reserves in the world that has been established on the grounds of being the most sustainable and suitable land use in the area.

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