Polokwane, South Africa

Capital City

Polokwane may be the capital of Limpopo province, but it's no cosmopolitan paradise. The population sits around 130,000, with nearly half identifying as Sepedi speakers. While the city has seen some development, the persistent bureaucracy and heavy tax burden are a headache. And despite its position on the Tropic of Capricorn, the climate is hardly tropical - temperatures range from 11°C in winter to 22°C in summer, with a pronounced dry spell. For those seeking an affordable regional hub away from the big city crowds, Polokwane could be a pragmatic choice. But for those craving bright lights and urban excitement, this town may fall short.