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Sacred Lake Fundudzi
Located in
South Africa :: Limpopo
Category:
Attraction :: Dam/Lake
The enchanted body of water known as Lake Fundudzi is a sacred lake of the Venda people that lies in the heart of the Soutpansberg and is one of the few true inland lake systems in South Africa. It is surrounded by the mythical Thathe Vondo forest - so full of spirits that few Venda people venture into it for fear of hauntings and a lightning bird called Ndadzi. Trips to the lake shore are traditionally rarely granted visitors, which is probably just as well as it is said to be infested with crocodiles. So sacred is the lake that newcomers must turn their backs on the lake and view the water from between their legs, according to the ritual after which the lake is named.
| Address : | Sheshe, Limpopo, South Africa |
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“Lake Fundudzi is a Natural lake in the Soutpansberg Mountains, Sibasa district, 20 km north-west of Thohoyandou. The name is possibly derived from the Venda verb meaning ‘to bow’, since the Bavenda bow with backs turned towards the lake in respect for a god of agriculture said to live in it. Another meaning given is ‘the lake that covers a village’, derived from a legend. Crocodiles are abundant and are considered sacred. In earlier times corpses were thrown into the lake to be devoured by them. The lake is on the Mutale River at the foothills of the Soutpansberg and lies in the Thathe Vondo Forest. Fundudzi is South Africa’s only true lake. All the country’s other “lakes” are either fresh water lagoons or pans. Lake Fundudzi was created in ancient times when a landslide blocked the course of the river. It measures 5km by 3km and is infested with crocodiles. The lake is enveloped in magic and mystery and no one swims here because it is also believed to be the home of the white python. The offering of sacrifices to this god was believed to ensure good rains for the crops. A ceremony that is very special to the heart of the Venda people is the “python dance” (domba) performed by bare breasted young Venda girls. Outsiders are now allowed to see this unique ceremony, but permission to visit the lake can only be given by the Priestess of the Lake.” - Chris Smit, 2023/05/15
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