picture by Given Mahwayi: Tourists touring.
On October 6, 2023, a remarkable media tour organized by Thulamela Municipality took a group of eager participants on an unforgettable journey through the scenic landscapes of Venda. The adventure began at the Communication Center in Thohoyandou, where a diverse group of individuals, including Vhembe TVET College tourism students, media practitioners, tourists, and more, gathered to embark on a day filled with exploration and wonder .
The Tshitadzumba cave.
The tour's first leg saw the group travel along the R524 road to Tshitadzumba in Tshitandani and Dzumbama village, where nature has worked its magic in breathtaking ways. Here, ancient rocks revealed intricate images of animals and maps, offering a glimpse into the artistry of the natural world. The location also featured picturesque waterfalls and inviting pools, where visitors could take a refreshing swim. Among the notable attractions was a cave, historically used for shelter and hiding, The surname of the people who used to hide there which is still kept is Nyadenga, according to the owner of the place, Netshisahulu Elelwani Kaizer's information while he was addressing the people about the history of the cave.
As the tour continued, the participants journeyed back to Thengwe, where they encountered the mystical Mutavhatsindi, a tree known for its significance and magical properties. Benjamin Baloyi, one of the guards at the site, emphasized the importance of protecting this tree, as it faced the threat of poaching. According to Baloyi, the tree had the power to activate various extraordinary phenomena, including lighting.
picture by: Given Mahwayi. Mashudu Dima explains to the tourists.
Mashudu Dima, the spokesperson for the tourists, shed light on the cultural significance of the Mutavhatsindi tree. According to Dima, it was believed that only Vhatavhatsindi, individuals who had pure intentions and were unclothed, could uproot the tree. However, Vhatavhatsindi could communicate with their ancestors using offerings such as leftover pap and snuff. Dima also shared a fascinating historical account of how the tree played a vital role in aiding the Vhavenda people during their struggles against colonizers. It was said that releasing particles of the tree into the river could make the colonizers fall ill.
Following this captivating encounter, the tour proceeded to Dzanani, where the group embarked on a challenging hike to Tshapasha waterfall. Although the journey was demanding and took nearly two hours, the reward was breathtaking. The natural beauty of Venda was on full display, and some adventurous participants even took a refreshing swim in the pristine waters of the waterfall.