Matatiele’s name is said to be derived from the Sotho words Madi i Yila – “The Ducks have Flown” – referring to the wetland pools and marshes that teem with waterfowl. The town had its start in 1864 with the arrival of Adam Kok and the Griqua community. Dairy farming has been the principal source of income for the town since the 1880s.
Adventure And Sport
Sport: A variety of sporting facilities are available in town, including golf, tennis, squash, bowls and polo.
Archaeology And Palaeontology
San Rock Art: Various examples of San rock art adorn rocks in the area.
Fauna And Flora
Lake Nature Reserve: Enjoy fly-fishing, bird watching and wonderful views of the Drakensberg Mountains at the Lake Nature Reserve.
Wilfred Bauer Nature Reserve: The Wilfred Bauer Nature Reserve is an ideal spot for picnics and angling.
History And Architecture
Matatiele Museum: The Matatiele Museum details the local history and culture of the area, from the Stone Age to the present day. Made of sandstone, it was originally constructed as a Dutch Reformed Church and is now a national monument.
War Memorial: The War Memorial is dedicated to local soldiers who died during the First and Second World Wars.
