Marataba Overview

Marataba is a malaria-free 23,000 hectare private concession within the Big 5 Marakele National Park (Limpopo, South Africa). Just four hours from Johannesburg, this is a sanctuary where busy people can find themselves again by connecting with nature. Be rendered breathless by the dramatic Waterberg mountains, vast plains, rich animal diversity and winding rivers cutting through the landscape of the Marakele National Park.

Rich red mountain rock meets lush green plains (where you will find yellowwood and cedar trees, 5m high cycads and tree ferns). All of the large game species from elephant and rhino to the big cats, as well as an amazing variety of birds (including the largest colony of endangered Cape vultures in the world, with more than 800 breeding pairs) have settled here.

The Lodges

Marataba Safari Lodge

Marataba Safari Lodge is a simple extension of the natural environment beyond its walls – rich, bold, organic and patently magnificent. If you sit quietly for long enough, you can feel the energy of the countless people who have made this place home since The Stone Age. Whether you prefer your own company or that of new-found friends, there are a number of spots from which to soak up the view – pool lounger or grassy patch.

Each of the 15 canvas-and-stone Tented Suites are tastefully furnished and decorated with a contemporary twist. Whether sharing it with lover, friend or family (or keeping it all to yourself), the interior is ample, and the attention to detail impeccable.Each Tented Suite is approximately 45m2 and has a private deck, a double bed (convertible to twins), air conditioning, open-plan bathroom en-suite, outdoor shower, in-room safe, mini bar, direct-dial telephone, hairdryer and a range of deluxe amenities.

Marataba Mountain Lodge

Marataba Mountain Lodge is perched on the side of the mountain, with 180 degree views into Waterfall Valley. It is utterly remote, in a wilderness world of its own for never more than 10 guests at a time. The five deluxe Eco Suites each have a king-size bed, en-suite shower, mini bar and furnished private shaded viewing deck overlooking the breathtaking panoramic vista.

The Experience

In the company of your Field Guide, you will learn more about the Big Five and the many unique animal species found on the Marakele National Park. 2 safaris a day (one early morning, and one late afternoon, into the evening) are each approximately 3-4 hours long, and include a scenic coffee and sundowner break to purely appreciate just being in the moment. Predators are accustomed to the vehicles at Marataba, and do not see them as a threat. This enables guides to get into very close proximity with Africa’s most impressive animal species. Photographic opportunities are simply spectacular! The fact that only 5 vehicles head out each day onto the 27000 hectare reserve means that you are unlikely to encounter other vehicles during your safari – leaving just you and your guide alone in this vast, scenic wilderness.