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Marataba Safari Lodge
South Africa – Marakele National Park
Marataba Safari Lodge
About the hotel
Marataba is a luxury safari lodge in the malaria-free 23,000-hectare Marakele National Park. It is surrounded by a remarkable landscape shaped by rolling hills, dense bushland, and majestic mountains. This distinctive retreat is home to rich wildlife, San rock art, and Iron Age sites. It is no coincidence that Marakele forms part of the greater UNESCO Waterberg Biosphere Reserve. In other words, this is a truly extraordinary place to be. The lodge itself sits beautifully within its setting, with natural stone, draped khaki canvas, and expansive windows. Here, nature and luxury exist in effortless harmony.
Kids & Teens
Children of all ages are warmly welcomed at Marataba Safari Lodge. Children aged five to eleven can join the Mack & Madi children's adventure programme. Nature guides and childminders teach younger guests how to track animals and camp in the bush, enjoy films beneath the stars, and spend their days in the fresh air. The aim of the club is to create cherished memories and inspire a lifelong love of nature. It is also a lovely way for children to make new friends. Good to know: if children are unable to join certain safari experiences with the family or parents, childcare is also available.
Experiences & Activities
At Marataba Safari Lodge, enjoy a seamless blend of adventure and relaxation amid the spectacular landscapes of Marakele National Park. Set out on thrilling safari excursions, where you can observe the Big Five and other wildlife in their natural habitat. Enjoy a boat trip on the Matlabas River or discover the landscape on guided walks. Sundowner drinks and night safaris, bringing you closer to the region’s nocturnal wildlife, make for especially memorable moments. Afterwards, unwind with luxurious wellness treatments or indulge in culinary delights served beneath a glittering night sky.
Hotelbilder
Marataba Safari Lodge
in our eyes
Marataba is a remarkable place at the foot of the Waterberg Mountains: alongside its impressive wildlife, there are towering rock formations, rushing rivers, and wide-open plains to explore. Spending the night in a tent that offers every comfort allows you to experience the African bush in a particularly immersive way. The sounds of the wildlife drift into the tent unfiltered – but do not worry, the animals themselves do not.
Best time to travel
The best time to visit Marakele National Park is during the dry season from May to September. During these months, the vegetation is less dense and animals are often found at waterholes. Temperatures are also pleasantly cool, especially in the early morning and evening, making this an ideal time for game drives. In addition, the clear skies and low humidity provide breathtaking views of the dramatic mountain scenery. Perfect for photographers!
From October to April, when the rainy season arrives, the landscape transforms into a green paradise and the wildlife flourishes. However, temperatures are higher during these months. The same applies to humidity, due to the rains, which can make game drives a little more challenging, though the reward is a lush, vivid landscape.
Karte zur Lage /
Anreise
Johannesburg Airport is around 360 kilometres away, and Marataba can be reached from Johannesburg in a drive of 4 1/2 to 5 hours.
Marakele National Park
Marakele National Park, in South Africa’s Limpopo Province, is an unspoilt gem offering families an exceptional safari experience in a malaria-free setting. Stretching across the majestic Waterberg Mountains, the park captivates with its varied landscapes – from green valleys and steep rock faces to dense forests. This remarkable diversity of habitats makes Marakele a paradise for wildlife, including the Big Five, large elephant herds and one of the world’s largest breeding colonies of Cape vultures.
For families seeking an authentic nature experience, the park offers an ideal blend of adventure and comfort. Game drives through the reserve offer exciting wildlife encounters, while guided walks provide fascinating insight into the region’s flora and fauna.
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