Nestled within the expansive and breathtaking Marataba Game Reserve, part of the greater Marakele National Park, Marataba Safari Lodge offers travellers a luxurious immersion into the wilds of South Africa.
This stunning reserve, located at the foothills of the Waterberg Mountains in Limpopo Province, is a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, boasting remarkable biodiversity and dramatic landscapes.
What sets Marataba apart from other safari lodges is its blend of indulgent luxury and hands-on conservation efforts. As part of the MORE Family Collection, the lodge offers not only an extraordinary safari experience but also invites guests to contribute directly to rhino conservation through a variety of engaging activities.
With its stunning setting and unwavering commitment to protecting wildlife, Marataba Safari Lodge is a unique gem in the safari world.
On Safari
The safari experience at Marataba Safari Lodge is nothing short of extraordinary. The lodge offers game drives twice daily — at dawn and dusk — when wildlife is most active. Guests can expect to see an impressive variety of animals, including elephants, buffalo, lions, and the elusive leopard. Marataba is particularly renowned for its rhino population, and the lodge’s conservation focus ensures travellers get up-close, meaningful experiences with these majestic creatures with their Rhino Conservation Experience.
Expert guides, many of whom are locals, lead the safaris, providing fascinating insights into the behaviour of animals and the delicate balance of the park’s ecosystems. Guests can also embark on boat safaris along the Matlabas River, offering a unique perspective on the wildlife and birdlife that gather at the water’s edge. For those seeking even more adventure, guided bush walks are available, allowing guests to explore the African wilderness on foot — a thrilling way to connect with nature.
The intimate group sizes and expertly navigated routes ensure that each safari is both personal and rewarding, with plenty of opportunities to stop for photographs and ask questions. Marataba’s location at the crossroads of two ecological zones makes it a prime spot for wildlife viewing year-round, ensuring that each safari delivers unforgettable moments.
Lodge experience
The lodge itself is a perfect fusion of elegance and eco-conscious design. Marataba Safari Lodge offers 15 luxury tented suites, each carefully crafted to blend with the surrounding landscape while providing maximum comfort. These suites feature large stone baths, private outdoor showers, and expansive decks with breathtaking views of the surrounding savanna and mountains. The rooms are adorned with natural materials like wood and stone, creating a soothing, earthy atmosphere that complements the wilderness just beyond the door.
For those seeking something truly exceptional, Marataba also offers the Thabametsi Treehouse, an elevated sleep-out experience under the African night sky. Located a short drive from the lodge, this rustic yet luxurious treehouse allows guests to sleep in complete seclusion, surrounded by the sounds of the bush. With no electricity and only lanterns and the stars to light your way, it’s the ultimate immersion in nature.
The staff at Marataba Safari Lodge is another highlight, known for their warmth, attentiveness, and professionalism. Whether it’s the guides, who have a deep knowledge of the park’s wildlife and ecosystems, or the lodge hosts, who attend to every detail, the level of service here is truly world-class. Many of the staff members come from local communities, adding a layer of authenticity to the guest experience and reinforcing the lodge’s commitment to community support.
The dining experience
Dining at Marataba Safari Lodge is as much an adventure as the safari itself. Meals are served in a variety of settings, from boma dinners under the stars to intimate meals on the terrace overlooking the bush. The cuisine is an eclectic mix of international and African flavours, with fresh, locally sourced ingredients playing a starring role. Expect everything from hearty breakfasts with views of the wildlife to gourmet multi-course dinners that showcase the best of South African culinary traditions.
The lodge’s bar offers a selection of local and international wines, craft beers, and expertly mixed cocktails. After an exciting day of game drives, there’s nothing quite like sipping on a sundowner as the sun sets over the Waterberg Mountains, casting a golden glow over the savanna.
Overall experience
With its seamless blend of luxury, wilderness, and conservation, Marataba Safari Lodge stands out as a top destination for Australian travellers looking to offer their clients an unforgettable African safari experience.
For those looking for a more private or exclusive experience, the MORE Family Collection also offers the Mountain Lodge, which provides a more intimate and secluded retreat, and the Marataba Founders Residence, perfect for families or larger groups seeking complete privacy with personalised service. Each of these properties shares Marataba’s dedication to conservation and luxury, offering a unique stay within the same pristine environment.
