The Venetia Limpopo Nature Reserve is situated in the northern-most parts of South Africa, and is owned by the De Beers Diamond Mining Company - the mine itself is actually within the confines of the reserve.
The reserve is approximately 33 000 ha in size, and is characterised by the dominant mopane veld- type (Colophospermum mopane). Whilst scenic, the area is hot — summer temperatures regularly pass the 40 degrees Celsius mark.
The reserve is home to three of the big 5 (lion, elephant and leopard — rhino and buffalo are not found in the park). There was a population of African Wild Dogs resident in the park, who were in fact part of a research project being undertaken by the Carnivore Conservation Group, a branch of the Endangered Wildlife Trust.
Literally across the road is one of South Africa's newest national parks — the Mapungubwe National Park.
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—Ralph Waldo Emerson (1803–1882)
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