Sunland Baobab
Limpopo
The Sunland Baobab, also known as the Platland Baobab or Big Baobab, was one of the largest and oldest baobab trees in South Africa, located on Sunland Farm near Modjadjiskloof in Limpopo Province. Estimated to be around 1,060 years old, though some studies suggest it could be older, this majestic tree reached 22 meters in height and had a circumference of 47 meters. Its trunk, measuring over 10 meters in diameter, consisted of two connected hollow sections linked by a narrow passage. The tree was known for its prolific spring blooms and provided a habitat for owls and various bird species. In a remarkable adaptation, the owners cleared the compost inside the hollow trunk in 1993 and established a bar and wine cellar within, making it a unique tourist attraction. The bar could accommodate up to 60 people and featured draft beer, seating, and music. Unfortunately, the tree suffered significant damage, with one-third collapsing in 2016 and the bar being destroyed in 2017 due to the tree splitting. The owners have since decided to leave the fallen section to natural processes. The Sunland Baobab symbolizes both natural grandeur and human ingenuity, though it also highlights the vulnerability of ancient trees.
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Tip: The best time to visit the Sunland Baobab is during the spring when the tree used to bloom profusely, offering a spectacular natural display. Visitors should check local conditions and access permissions as the tree has suffered structural damage. Since the bar inside the tree no longer exists due to the collapse, visitors can still appreciate the tree's immense size and historical significance. Booking a guided tour in the nearby Modjadjiskloof area may enhance the experience. No specific ticketing system exists, but supporting local conservation efforts is encouraged.
Interesting facts
- •The Sunland Baobab was estimated to be over 1,000 years old, with some studies suggesting even greater age.
- •Its trunk diameter was approximately 10.64 meters, making it one of the largest baobab trees globally.
- •The hollow trunk housed a unique bar and wine cellar, capable of hosting up to 60 people inside the tree.
- •The tree provided refuge to two pairs of owls and various bird species.
- •One-third of the tree collapsed in 2016 due to natural aging and hollowing processes.
- •Carbon dating inside the hollows revealed fires dating back to 1650 AD, evidencing historical human presence.
History
The Sunland Baobab was carbon-dated to be approximately 1,060 years old, with some studies suggesting an even greater age.
In 1993, when the internal hollows were cleared, evidence of visits by Bushmen and Voortrekkers was discovered, including charcoal from fires dating back to 1650 AD and later periods.
Over time, natural hollowing and aging caused structural weakening, leading to the collapse of a third of the tree in August 2016 and the destruction of the tree bar in 2017.
These events reflect a broader trend of decline among the oldest and largest African baobabs in recent years.
