Thulamela Archaeological Sites
Thulamela Archaeological Sites
Thulamela Archaeological Sites — Thulamela is a stone-walled site located in the northern region of the Park, and dates back to between 450-500 years. It comprises evidence of the Zimbabwe culture and is linked to the world-famous Mapungubwe Ruins.
When Great Zimbabwe was abandoned, several groups moved south across the Limpopo River into the north-eastern regions of South Africa (including northern Kruger). They established smaller chiefdoms such as Thulamela and started farming subsistence crops such as sorghum and millet. The grain was ground and used to make porridge and beer.
There is evidence of clay spindle wheels which would suggest that the people also grew cotton. There are remains of pots of various shapes and sizes, some decorated, which were used for cooking, eating and drinking. Admission (into Kruger Park complex): R372 (foreign adult), R186 (adults from SADC countries), R93 (adults from South Africa); R186 (foreign child), R93 (child from SADC countries), R47 (child from South Africa).