The Tzaneen area is a filled with indigenous and exotic plants. Tzaneen itself lies peacefully at the foot of the northern Drakensberg Mountains in the heart of a forestry area and in South Africa's richest sub-tropical fruit-farming region. It is an attractive subtropical garden town with a colourful profusion of indigenous and exotic plants and the 'capital' of the picturesque Letaba district.
The valley of Tzaneen yields Valencia oranges and grapefruit (such as Star Ruby). Bananas and macadamia nuts are also common crops in the area, with the town producing the majority of the country's mangoes, avocado pears, paw-paws, tea and coffee. The town also contributes substantially to the total production of timber, citrus and litchis amongst others.
The surrounding mountain slopes are heavily forested with pine and blue gum plantations and close on forty sawmills operate in the area. Tzaneen is the second largest town in Limpopo and accommodates some 80,000 residents while serving close on 650,000 people within a radius of 30 km. Situated below the scenic Magoebaskloof, Tzaneen offers visitors a change of scenery at almost every turn. The mountainous landscape, subtropical climate, lush indigenous vegetation alternating with cultivated plantations and the largely unspoilt natural environment make this lovely area one of the most attractive recreation and tourist areas in South Africa.
There are several game and nature reserves around Tzaneen, including the famous Kruger National Park, which is only an hour's drive away. For the adventurous traveller, boating is available at the Tzaneen Dam, with the only access being via the Hans Merensky Nature Reserve. This reserve, situated on the banks of the Great Letaba River, is a worthwhile stop, accommodating a spa resort with a variety of swimming pools and a hot mineral spring. The unique Modjadji Cycad Reserve, named after the succession Rain Queens who have lived in the area since the 16th century, encompasses the world's largest concentration of a single species Cycad Encephalartos Transvenosus, also known as the Modjadji Palm.
The Ebenezer and Tzaneen Dams are popular recreational spots that offer good angling. The Magoebaskloof Picnic and Lookout Spot overlooks the lush green valley and is a breathtaking setting for a light picnic lunch or afternoon nap. | 
