Flamingo Route

Unwind to the best floral experience

Flamingo Route In Free State

The Flamingo Route offers a unique escape through the Lejweleputswa District in the Free State, blending agricultural richness with historical charm and adventure. Known as the "breadbasket" of the province, this region is famed for its vast maize and sunflower fields, as well as its gold mining heritage. As mining activity has decreased, tourism has grown, providing an array of activities from local history and heritage sites to adventure and nature-focused destinations.

Flamingo Route Free State Routes

A Unique Free State Adventure on the Flamingo Route

If you’re seeking an experience that captures the essence of the Free State, the Flamingo Route is a prime choice. Covering towns like Brandfort, Winburg, Virginia, Ventersburg, Welkom, and Bothaville, it takes travelers through the Free State’s agricultural heartland and offers a taste of the region’s history, heritage, and natural beauty.


Agricultural Tourism in Bothaville

Bothaville is celebrated as South Africa’s “maize capital,” surrounded by endless fields of maize and sunflowers. Every May, Bothaville hosts the NAMPO Harvest Festival, one of the country’s largest agricultural events, attracting both locals and international visitors. With the rise of sunflower production, Bothaville is also home to South Africa’s first ethanol plant, showcasing the area’s dedication to sustainable agricultural innovation.


Adventure Tourism at Phakisa Freeway in Welkom

For thrill-seekers, the Phakisa Freeway Race Track near Welkom is a highlight. Known as the fourth-fastest track globally, Phakisa features a flat Formula 1 Grand Prix circuit as well as a Super Speedway Oval. This track has hosted several international motorcycle races, including the World Motorcycle Grand Prix. With challenging turns and a wide track, it’s hailed by racing legends like Valentino Rossi, who remarked, “you have to be brave to win here.”


Exploring History and Heritage Along the Flamingo Route

The Flamingo Route boasts a wealth of historical sites dating back to South Africa’s early days. Some notable stops include:

  • Brandfort: Known for the Florisbad Archaeological Site and the exile location of Winnie Madikizela-Mandela, this town holds rich stories from South Africa’s past.

  • Ventersburg: Famous for the Basotho War Rampart Skanskraal and home to the oldest Voortrekker cemetery in the country.

  • Winburg: The Free State’s oldest proclaimed town, home to the Voortrekker Monument and other historic treasures.

  • Welkom: History lovers can visit the Aandenk Monument, marking the site of the area’s first borehole drilled in the pursuit of gold.

  • Bothaville: Visit the Doornkraal Monument, which commemorates Boers lost in the Battle of Doornkraal.


Relaxation and Leisure on the Flamingo Route

For those in search of relaxation, the Flamingo Route has plenty of scenic and leisurely destinations:

  • Aldam Resort and Willem Pretorius Game Reserve in Ventersburg offer boating, fishing, and water-skiing on the Sand River.

  • Virginia’s Sand River and Tikwe Lodge provide a haven for birdwatching, boating, and game drives, with over 40 species of wildlife, including giraffe and zebra.

  • Erfenis Dam Nature Reserve in Winburg is ideal for a peaceful getaway surrounded by natural beauty.

  • Oppenheimer Park Golf Course in Welkom offers golfers a scenic spot to unwind.

Key Stops and Attractions Along the Flamingo Route

This route isn’t just about agriculture and history; it’s full of community charm and unique stops that make for memorable visits:

  • Brandfort’s Florisbad Archaeological Site – Discover fossils, including a 260,000-year-old hominid skull, then relax at the Florisbad Resort.
  • Virginia’s Jewellery School – Witness skilled craftsmanship and artistry in action.
  • Bothaville’s Tarentaalbosch Christmas Market – Shop for arts and crafts while taking in the festive ambiance.

The Flamingo Route offers visitors a true taste of Free State life, from the excitement of the Phakisa Freeway to the charm of its agricultural towns and nature reserves. This route is where South African history, nature, and community spirit come together, making it an ideal choice for families, history buffs, and adventurers alike.