In May 2024, I had the incredible opportunity to spend two unforgettable days at Marataba Safari Lodge alongside a group of seasoned safari enthusiasts, and the experience was truly incredible. The views were some if not the best i’ve ever experienced from a safari destination.

Although my family wasn't with me, the array of activities and dedicated areas for children seemed exceptional, keeping them happily engaged in fun-filled adventures throughout our stay. We even drove past their moulds of wildlife tracks on the side of the road drying in the sun.

During our time there, we were treated to extraordinary wildlife sightings, from playful three-month-old lion cubs to adolescent lions stalking each other and honing their hunting skills. We saw an abundance of white rhinos, complete with their precious horns intact, sadly a rarity in South Africa at the moment, where the protection of these endangered creatures necessitates their horns being cut off, a painless and worth it task but nevertheless imactful on the animals and a sad reminder of the risk to their lives . We were also lucky enough to spot a black rhino, the more nervous of the rhino species and a young elephant calf crossing our path was an unforgettable sight, set against the majestic backdrop of the Waterberg Mountains.

Exploring both Marataba Mountain Lodge and the exclusive-use Residence provided insights into the diverse offerings of this remarkable destination. However, the pinnacle of our experience came during a memorable boat safari on our final evening, where we savoured sundowners while watching the sun cast a fiery glow upon the mountains, accompanied by the calls of fish eagles and the graceful flight of kingfishers. Encountering the elusive Bush Pig, a first for me despite two decades of safari experience, added an extra layer of excitement to an already unforgettable adventure.

Overall, a stay at Marataba Safari Lodge comes highly recommended, particularly for families seeking an adventurous getaway. For those desiring a more intimate and romantic escape, Marataba Mountain Lodge offers a perfect retreat, while The Residence promises secluded luxury for families or groups of friends.

Read on to find out all about Marataba Safari Lodge, including how to get there, best time to visit and the array of activities to choose from.

For further information or assistance in planning your own safari experience, feel free to reach out to us at kim@safariandme.com.

Beyond the Ordinary for:

• Families

• Incredible Vistas

• Kosher dining

  
  
  

Highlights & Quick Facts

• Spectacular backdrop with the Waterberg Mountain range as your backdrop

• Thabametsi Treehouse sleep out experience

• Unique opportunity to particiapate in a rhino conservation experience

• Big 5 Wildlife experience with the opportunity to see Black Rhino, Brown Hyena and Aardwolf, as well as pangolin.

• Kosher catering available

• Creative Lab for professional and novice wildlife photographers.

• Voted amongst the best in the Conde Nast Traveller Readers Choice Awards

• 3 hours north of Johannesburg

• Maleria Free

• Created by Nelson Mandela and the dutch philantropist Paul Van Vlissingen

• Rhino’s with their horns

• Mack & Madi Kids Adventure Safari Club

  
  

Location:

Marataba Luxury Lodges are nestled within the breathtaking lanscape of Marakele National Park, situated in the Limpopo province of South Africa. Spanning an expansive 23,000 hectares, this pristine sanctuary is free from maleria and boasts the stunning backdrop of the majestic Waterberg Mountains. Within this expanse lies and extraordinary array of wildlife, including the iconic Big 5.

Marakele National Park is not just any reserve; it holds the distinction of being part of the UNESCO-recognized Waterberg Biosphere, the sole savannah biosphere on the planet. Its Tswana name, meaning "place of sanctuary," reflects its role in safeguarding the rich biodiversity of the Waterberg region, encompassing 67,000 hectares. Additionally, the park is a repository of history, with Iron Age sites of significant cultural heritage dotting its landscape.

Getting There:

By Road: Marataba is just a 3.5 hour drive from Johannesburg Airport. Luxury road transfers can be quoted for, booked and arranged by MORE Reservations. Guests will be met at the airport and transferred in an air-conditioned vehicle.

By Air: Enjoy an exclusive and personalised service on the daily Federal Air Charter flight from Johannesburg Airport to Thambazimbi airstrip. These flights also stop in Madikwe reserve for a perfect twin centre option

Weather:

The average maximum temperatures range from 21°C in July to 36°C in January, with the lowest average minimum occurring in July at 3°C. The region is semi-arid, with an average annual rainfall of 500mm, most of which occurs during the summer months (December-February). Rain is usually in the form of thunderstorms, where a downpour is experienced. very seldom lasting longer than a few hours.

Best Time to Visit

Marataba is a year-round safari destination. The animals in Marakele National Park are non-migratory.

The best time for bird watching is from September to March, with opportunities to view both resident and migrant species.

Wildlife & Habitats

Marataba offers a captivating blend of diverse habitats within the savannah biome, featuring lush forests, expansive grasslands, rugged mountains, rocky hills, open plains, the perennial Matlabas River, and a thriving wetland ecosystem. Nestled in a transition zone between South Africa's arid western expanses and its more humid eastern regions, Marakele National Park hosts an extraordinary array of flora and fauna. Among its botanical treasures are rare specimens like yellowwood and cedar trees, ancient cycads, and delicate ferns.

The wildlife in Marataba is nothing short of spectacular, boasting the famed Big 5—rhinoceros, elephants, lions, leopards, and buffalos. Notably, Marataba is home to a robust population of critically endangered black rhinoceros. The park also proudly hosts the world's largest colony of endangered Cape vultures, with over 800 breeding pairs. Rare sightings include elusive species such as the pangolin, brown hyena, and aardwolf.

The plains teem with life, with approximately 3,000 impalas roaming in herds of 20 to 30 individuals, while over 2,000 wildebeests traverse the landscape in numerous smaller herds. Zebra populations, numbering over 1,500, dot the plains in groups of 5 to 10 individuals. Marvel at the majestic sight of over 400 elephants, often seen in herds ranging from 5 to 20 individuals.

The avian diversity is equally impressive, with Marataba hosting more than 400 bird species, including some exceptional finds. Among these are raptors like the booted eagle, peregrine falcon, and cuckoo hawk, along with striking species like the swallow-tailed bee-eater, violet-eared waxbill, and Temmick’s courser.

Lodge

Marataba Safari Lodge is designed for active families seeking adventure in the mountains. The lodge features 15 luxury tents, including four Family Luxury Tents, providing comfortable accommodations close to nature. Each tent includes a king-sized bed, en-suite bathroom, outdoor shower, and shaded viewing deck. Families can unwind at the guest pool located next to the main lodge area or opt for in-room spa treatments.

The Mack & Madi Kids’ Adventure Safari Club offers various onsite activities supervised by a dedicated coordinator. Children can enjoy a jungle gym, paddling pond, haybale archery, and indoor games. Arts and crafts, movies, and outdoor play areas are also available. Upon arrival, children aged 12 and under receive branded peak caps and backpacks. Family game drives tailored for younger children provide bush orientation, basic survival skills, animal track identification, and star gazing from the eco-garden. Specialized family drives for 3-6-year-olds are offered after the regular morning game drives, ensuring an engaging safari experience for all ages.

History:

Nelson Mandela, the former president of South Africa, recognized the natural beauty of Marataba. Together with Dutch philanthropist Paul Van Vlissingen, Mandela acquired the old farmland, cleared it, and established Marataba as a wildlife area in 2000.

Today, Marataba Safari Lodge is owned and managed by the MORE Family Collection, a distinguished group encompassing luxury safari lodges, boutique hotels, and exclusive-use residences in South Africa and Zimbabwe. Seamlessly connecting their properties, the MORE Family Collection offers curated itineraries for guests.

Other notable establishments within the MORE Collection include Lion Sands in Sabi Sands, Monwana Game Lodge in Limpopo, Cape Cadogan Boutique Hotel, and MORE Quarters Neighbourhood Hotel in Cape Town, as well as Stanley Livingstone Boutique Hotel and Ursula’s Homestead in Victoria Falls.

Committed to environmental protection, community development, and sustainability, the MORE Collection strives to deliver life-enriching experiences to its guests while upholding its core principles.

Conservation

Conservation lies at the heart of Marataba Luxury Lodges, where a steadfast commitment to preserving the natural environment and wildlife thrives. Through comprehensive conservation initiatives, Marataba aims to safeguard the rich biodiversity of the region, including its iconic species like the Big 5 and critically endangered black rhinoceros. The lodge collaborates closely with local communities and conservation organizations to implement sustainable practices that minimize environmental impact and promote ecological balance. From anti-poaching efforts to habitat restoration projects, Marataba actively engages in conservation activities to ensure the long-term viability of the ecosystem. Through education and awareness programs, guests are encouraged to participate in and support these conservation efforts, fostering a collective dedication to preserving the natural heritage of Marataba for generations to come.

A Day in Life:

Things to Do at Marataba Luxury Lodges

Marataba is a place where time stands still. Through their people and place, they create expereinces for guests to enrich their lives - whether you are looking for adventure, family time, romance, relaxation, or the chance to give back. Their purpose is to help you open your eyes and heart and reconnect with how wonderful life is.

GAME DRIVES:

Game drives are in comfortable open safari vehicles. You’ll have the opportunity to head out each day at sunrise and again in the late afternoon to explore the reserve and it’s many animals. The photographic opportunities are spectacular and bean bags can be arranged.

Children of 6 years up are welcome o the game drives. There is also a childrens' game drive for those 3-5 yrs which goes out after breafast daily and parents are welcome to go along.

BUSH WALKS:

Walks can last from 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on guests’ fitness levels

These are arranged for after-breakfast and a chance for guests to immerse themselves in the bush, rather then just observing it. During a safari walk all 5 senses are engaged, as you feel the earth under your feet, have a chance to feel seed pods and leaves, hear the crack of branches as you walk and see general game at eye level. The expert guides will tailor walks to each of the guests areas of interest, focusing on mammals, birds, insects, plants, geology etc.

• Children of under 16 years are not permitted on bush walks

• Guests need to wear: neutral-coloured clothing, comfortable walking shoes, hat, sunglasses and sunscreen.

  
  

MISS MARA WATER SAFARIS

Morning and sunset water safaris are operated on the Matlabas River, a scenic 30-minute drive from Safari Lodge and 45 minutes from Mountain Lodge (depending on your wildlife viewing on route). Guests will enjoy a cruise along the waterway, providing plenty of game viewing opportunities. Guests can enjoy watching hippo’s and plenty of birdlife from fish eagles to kingfishers and if they’re lucky watch as elephants and rhino come down for a drink from the waters edge as you float past.

Drinks and snacks are served en route.

Children must be 6 years and older.

WILDLIFE LECTURES:

At times when the weather is unsuitable for safari activities, the excellent field guides and trackers will present short nature talks which cover a host of subjects from animals behaviour and the ecological impact of lodges on the environment to the flora and fauna found in the area. These are informal, interactive presentations.

LOCAL COMMUNITY EXPERIENCES:

MORE Community Foundation (MCF’s) purpose is to empower local communities in which MORE Family Collection operatates. It does this by providing access to:

• early childhood development

• skills development

• clean water.

Over the years, MCF has built close relationships within the communtiies, and guests are encouraged to visit through their “Get Your Hands Dirty Communtiy Experience’

This gives guests the opportunity to experience a different and humbling way of living by visiting culturally and historically significat sites, as well as connecting with local people, while positively impacting their lives. These extraordingary social experiences bring guests into the heart of Southern Africa and make their visits here that much more meaningful.

Guests of Marataba can experience the authentic rhythms of Obakeng village life on this eye-opening tour that sheds light on the challenges faced by its community memebers. This active immersion showcases their most essictial projects, featuring Heuningvlei Primary School and Itsoseng Daycare Centre, situationed on Honingvlei Farm, the sole educational hub for the area.

This activity is available to children of all ages.

RHINO CONSERVATION EXPERIENCES

All rhino proactive and preventative conservation procedures are conducted under a specialised permit.

Guests staying at the Marataba Luxury Lodges will meet the conservation team and receive a briefing before the activity begins. Once the rhino has been located and darted, guests will have a chance to actively participate in the activity, involving tasks that may include: fitting tracking collars, ear-notching, collecting blood and tissue samples, and micro-chipping of horns. The duration of activities can be anything from 30 minutes to 2 hours.

After the intervention, the conservation team provides a debriefing and a ‘behind the scenes’ tour of their operations room, for a comprehensive understanding of how the intervention aligns with conservation efforts and how the collected data contributes to the cause.

Interventions are limited to the months between April and September, due to more favourable weather conditions, ensuring the safety of the animals and there are approximatlely 60 activities throughout the year.

MACK & MADI KID’S ADVENTURE SAFARI CLUB:

The Mack and Madi Safari Club offers a wide variety of experiences on site that keep children entertained and encourages them to discover, learn, create and express themselves. On arrival children aged 12 and younger are given a Mack & Madi branded peak cap and backpack. Children under 6 receive a plush toy.

THE TREEHOUSE EXPERIENCE:

Thabametsi Treehouse offers big views of a remote landscape, globed by an even bigger star-strewn sky, its light twinkling down to the horizon. Below, the stilless is punctuated by animals’ whistles, huffs and growls.. carried on the wind. There are few such experiences left on earth that capture the romance of the untamed and untainted.

Solar powered and built over two levels, it comprises a main bedroom, full shower room, lounge, dining area and furnished viewing deck.

The Thabametsi Treehouse looks onto the Waterberg and across the verdant expance of the Marakele. Romantics, families or solitude seekers arrive to watch as the coolness of approaching evening brings animals into the open. Al fresco dining and falling asleep counting shooting stars complete this out-in-Africa experience.

No wifi but there is a solar powered lights and usb charge points in the bed heads for guests devices.

Can sleep 2 adults and 2 children (super king-sized bed and twin pull-out beds). Children must be at least 6 years of age.

You’ll be given a gourmet picnic basket so you can dine in style without interruption.

STARGAZING:

During the evening game drives or bush dinners (weather permitting) , the field guides will share insights into the incredible night sky. The clear air and minimal light pollution of this remote African wilderness make it an ideal location for stargazing. Guests will see planets and stars they have never before noticed. The guides will point out constellations that shift seasonally and those that are unique to the southern hemisphere, taking guests on an astral safari.

SPA:

Guests at Marataba Luxury Lodges can indulge in a range of pampering treatments delivered by skilled therapists in the tranquil privacy of their own rooms or secluded decks. Options include massages, exfoliations, reflexology, and facials using TheraNaka herbal-infused spa therapy products, meticulously crafted with ethically sourced natural and organic healing ingredients. Manicures and pedicures are also available for those seeking a complete spa experience.

Yoga enthusiasts will appreciate the serene ambiance of their private decks, ideal for stretching and unwinding while overlooking the picturesque reserve. Yoga mats can be conveniently borrowed from the lodge reception.

TheraNaka, meaning "Beauty of Africa," offers unique spa treatments and rituals designed to provide guests with the ultimate sensory experience. These treatments promote relaxation and rejuvenation rooted in Africa's rich heritage. Developed with the finest natural ingredients sourced from nature, Thera Naka honours the ecosystem while celebrating the profound connection between Mother Earth and life itself.

Signature treatments include the 'Luxury Fusion Relaxation Massage,' 'Tension Release Deep Tissue Massage,' 'Harmonizing Facial,' 'Men Daily Active Facial,' and more, ensuring a personalised and deeply nourishing spa journey for every guest.

See full menu here

Kosher Dining

For Marataba’s Jewish guests they cater to their dining needs with various options. Their facilities have designated cookware and utensils, as well as storage, preparation and cleaning areas for meat and dairy. All ingredients, as well as served beverages and snacks, are certified kosher.

Bookings for Kosher offerings must be confirmed a minimum of 30 days prior to arrival. The requirement must be confirmed at time of booking and is subject to additional charges.

Self-Served Kosher Offering

• Guests are invited to inspect the kitchen and supervise meal preparations

• Kosher principles are followed - with dedicated equipment - for meat and dairy storage and preparation.

• Kosher ingredients are sourced from Beth Din-approved suppliers

• Meal service and kitchen cleaning are carried out in accordance with kosher principles, and include the usage of crockery and cutlery dedicated solely to the purpose of kosher catering (single use sets also available if preferred).

• Stainless steel pots and pans are boiled and torched clean between each meal (if guests prefer, new sets, kept in their packaging are available for a small surcharge).

Supervised by a Mashgiach

In addition to the offerings of the self-served kosher offering, the lodge can also arrange:

• Marataba Safari Lodge can offer gourmet cuisine, freshly prepared on-site in a dedicated kitchen which is supervised by a Mashgiach.

• A private Mashgiach arrives at the lodge a day before the guests to kasher the entire kitchen, and then stays on-site to supervise the in-house chef during all meal preparations and services.

Marataba Luxury Lodges epitomise the essence of an unforgettable safari experience, seamlessly blending comfort with the raw beauty of Africa’s wilderness. Nestled within the breathaking landscapes of Marakele National Park, this sanctuary offers a haven for discerning travelers seeking adventure, relaxation, and a profound connection with nature. From the luxurious accommodations to the thrilling wildlife encounters, every aspect of the Marataba experience is designed to create an impactful guest experience. Whether indulgin in sumptuous spa treatments, embarking on incredible game drives, or simply basking in the tranquility of the African bush.

With its unwavering commitment to conservation, community empowermet, and sustainable tourism practices, Marataba Luxury Lodges not only enrich the lives of its visitors but also contribute to the preservation of Africa’s natural heritage for generations to come.