Marataba Luxury Lodges: Exquisite Vistas, Guided Walks, and Serene Boat Safaris
In May 2024, I had the privilege of spending two memorable days at Marataba Safari Lodge with a group of other safari specialists. From the moment we entered the conservation area, the views were exceptional, among the most impressive I've seen on safari.
Marataba Luxury Safari lodge where we stayed for the two nights is the family friendly accommodation but for those seeking a more romantic experience there’s the beautiful Marataba Mountian Lodge set within the stunning Waterberg Mountains and with the added bonus of no children! If you have a group of friends or family then there is also the Marataba Residence, a gorgeous 4 bedroom exclusive use lodge right on the waterside with its own boat and game vehicle to use at leisure.
During our time at Marataba, we enjoyed remarkable wildlife sightings, from 3-month-old lion cubs frolicking and chasing each other to adolescent lions stalking and pouncing on each other, honing their hunting skills. There’s also an abundance of white rhinos in the area with their horns still intact which is a sadly rare occurrence these days in South Africa as many of the conservancies cut the rhino’s horn off to prevent poachers from killing them and taking the horn for the black market. Luckily, at Marataba, with the help of the mountain range for protection, they are able to keep the rhinos safe and poaching under control.
Among the general elephant, giraffe, zebra, and buffalo sightings, we were also lucky enough to come across a black rhino and even a bush pig, which was a first for me, and after two decades of safaris, it’s a rarity to see a new animal. The area is also known for its rare sightings of Brown Hyena and aardwolf, our guide had even come across the super elusive pangolin the day before we arrived.
Due to our limited time there and taking time out to visit the Marataba Mountain Lodge and The Residence as well as so many amazing wildlife sightings we had to skip our planned walk, however i am already planning a trip back so i can adventure on the half day trek to the Bushmans Gorge which is outlined further down.
If a South African safari is on your to-do list or you are travelling through Johannesburg and have a few nights spare, I highly recommend a stay at Marataba Luxury Lodges. Just 3.5 hours' drive from Johannesburg, it's easy to get to by car or by air, and being a malaria-free area makes it a hassle-free safari.
For more information on Marataba Luxury Lodges, including travel tips and available activities, keep reading. And if you need help planning your own safari experience, feel free to contact us at info@walkingwildafrica.com.
Enjoying a boat safari at Marataba Luxury Lodges
Marataba Walking Safari: Bushmans Gorge Walk
The Bushman’s Gorge walk is a favorite among Marataba's Field Guides, offering a captivating blend of natural beauty and historical intrigue. As you enter the gorge, you'll encounter shallow caves bearing evidence of millennia of human habitation, including San Rock Art paintings from the Late Stone Age and Iron Age tools used by Bantu-speaking tribes. The gorge's entrance is lined with Sandpaper Raisin trees, Sicklebush, and Blackjack, leading to a path that opens up to reveal stunning rock pools and towering gorge walls.
Wildlife abounds in the gorge, with resident black storks, mountain wagtails, rock martins, and an array of insects gracing the landscape. Waterbuck, klipspringers, hippos, and buffalos are commonly sighted in the area, adding to the richness of the experience.
Despite its challenges, the Bushman’s Gorge walk offers a profound sense of tranquility and connection to nature. Taking a moment to reflect at cultural sites within the gorge adds a layer of historical significance to the experience. Whether challenging oneself with a refreshing swim or simply basking in the sunlight, the walk offers moments of both exhilaration and serenity. In the end, the journey through Bushman’s Gorge is as rewarding as the destination itself, leaving visitors with a deep appreciation for the natural wonders of Marataba.
This walk takes about half a day, is at an additional cost, and must be prearranged with the lodge before arrival.
Bushman Gorge Walking Safari at Marataba Luxury Lodges
Marataba Safari Lodge - Family Adventure
Marataba Safari Lodge caters to adventurous families with 15 luxury tents, including four Family Luxury Tents, the lodge offers cosy accommodations immersed in nature. Each tent boasts a king-sized bed, en-suite bathroom, outdoor shower, and shaded viewing deck. The family rooms have an additional en-suite bedroom with bunkbeds, ample toys and games as well as fun bath time amenities, childrens robes and slippers. Families can relax by the guest pool and your little ones will love the kids club and activities specially designed for them.
The Mack & Madi Kids’ Adventure Safari Club provides supervised onsite activities. Children can partake in a range of adventures like jungle gym fun, paddling in the pond, haybale archery, and indoor games. Arts and crafts, movies, and outdoor play areas are also available. Upon arrival, kids aged 12 and under receive branded peak caps and backpacks. Family game drives cater to younger children, offering bush orientation, basic survival skills, animal track identification, and stargazing from the eco-garden. Specialised family drives for 3-6-year-olds are available after the regular morning game drives, ensuring an immersive safari experience for all ages.
Marataba Mountain Lodge - A Romantic Retreat
Nestled in the secluded embrace of the Waterberg Mountain range, the Marataba Mountain Lodge epitomises exclusivity, offering a sanctuary where serenity and nature converge. Powered by solar energy and crafted with eco-conscious principles, the lodge seamlessly blends into its picturesque surroundings, harmonising with the landscape's rugged beauty. Inspired by the simplicity of Scandinavian design, the lodge exudes a minimalist charm, with stripped-back wooden accents and an earthy, stone colour palette mirroring the natural hues of the mountains. Each of the five Luxury Rooms offers a refined retreat with sweeping views overlooking the awe-inspiring Waterfall Valley. Here, amidst this tranquil haven, guests can relax while being brilliantly catered for as they take time to connect with nature and reconnect with themselves.
One thing to note about Mountain Lodge is access to the rooms are up a steep stone path so it’s not suitable for people who have difficulty climbing stairs or walking on uneven paths.
The 5 deluxe suits nestled within the remote mountainside seamlessly blend Scandinavian elegance with the rawness of the wild which surrounds them. Embracing minimalist design, your sanctuary provides unobstructed views of the surrounding valley, ensuring a tranquil escape from the distractions of modern life. Equipped with all the amenities expected of a luxury safari retreat, including a plush king-sized bed, stocked mini-bar, Nespresso machine, cosy wood-burning fireplace, and a lavish en-suite rain shower, your room with be your haven for your stay.
Within the main lodge, there is a selection of communal areas that invite relaxation and camaraderie. Whether lounging in the open-plan dining and lounge spaces or basking in the panoramic vistas from the expansive viewing deck, you'll find ample opportunities to unwind. As night falls, come together around the crackling fire deck beneath a star-studded sky. By day, the infinity rock pool, seamlessly blending into the backdrop of Waterfall Valley, provides a refreshing respite while offering sweeping views of the surrounding plains and majestic mountain ridges.
Marataba Mountain Lodge Main Area
Marataba Residence - Exclusive Use Tranquil River Retreat
The Marataba Residence offers a peaceful family getaway nestled alongside the serene Matalabas River, providing prime wildlife viewing opportunities right at your doorstep. With spacious decks and a refreshing pool perfectly positioned for enjoying the scenic vistas, this unique residence comprises four individual Luxury Tents accommodating up to eight adults and two children. The interiors boast a blend of traditional and contemporary elements, creating a light and airy ambiance. Set within a 23,000-hectare malaria-free zone, the residence ensures an exclusive safari experience with minimal vehicle traffic, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the unspoiled beauty of Africa alongside your private field guide and safari vehicle. Families or groups of friends can cherish moments of watching wildlife, reconnection, and marvel at the breathtaking sunrises and sunsets over the mountains and river.
Marataba Residence Features:
Four Luxury Tents with en-suite bathrooms
Twice-daily game drives led by a FGASA-accredited field guide and private vehicle
Dedicated residence butler and housekeeper
Personal residence chef to prepare all meals
Mack & Madi Kids’ Adventure Explorers program
Complimentary Wi-Fi access
Your Experiences: You dictate the pace of your safari adventures with twice-daily game drives accompanied by a professional FGASA-accredited field guide and your private safari vehicle. Bush walks offer a closer encounter with the wilderness, while water safaris on the Matlabas River reveal the wonders of hippos, elephants, and diverse birdlife. Enjoy unique coffee breaks, sundowners at scenic viewpoints, and outdoor dinners under the vast African sky. Younger guests can engage in nature treasure hunts and spoor identification activities. Additionally, from April to September, there's an extraordinary opportunity to participate in the veterinary care of endangered rhinos.
Room at Marataba Residence
Marataba Luxury Lodges Activities
At Marataba, time seems to stand still. Through the exceptional team and stunning surroundings, they curate experiences that enrich your life, whether you seek adventure, family bonding, romance, relaxation, or the chance to make a difference. Their aim is to awaken your senses and reconnect you with the wonders of life.
Game Drives: Embark on comfortable open safari vehicle game drives, offered twice daily. Enjoy the reserve's diverse wildlife during sunrise and late afternoon excursions, with ample opportunities for spectacular photography. Children aged 6 and up staying at Marataba Safari Lodge are welcome on these drives, while a special children's game drive is available for ages 3 to 5 after breakfast each day.
Bush Walks: Immerse yourself in the bush on guided walks lasting 1.5 to 2 hours, scheduled after breakfast. Engage all your senses as you explore the wilderness, led by expert guides who tailor the experience to your interests. Note that bush walks are reserved for guests aged 16 and above, and participants should wear neutral-colored clothing and comfortable walking shoes.
Miss Mara Water Safaris: Embark on morning and sunset water safaris along the picturesque Matlabas River, offering abundant wildlife sightings. Enjoy the tranquility of the river while observing hippos, diverse birdlife, and perhaps even elephants and rhinos. These safaris are suitable for guests aged 6 and older.
Wildlife Lectures: During inclement weather, join the knowledgeable guides for informal nature talks covering a range of topics, from animal behavior to local flora and fauna.
Local Community Experiences: Join the MORE Community Foundation (MCF) initiatives, empowering local communities through early childhood development, skills training, and access to clean water. Guests can participate in community visits and engage with residents, gaining insights into local culture and making a positive impact.
Rhino Conservation Experiences: Assist the veterinary team in rhino conservation efforts, available from April to September. Guests receive a briefing before participating in activities such as fitting tracking collars and collecting samples. Gain a deeper understanding of our conservation efforts and the importance of preserving rhino populations.
The Treehouse Experience: Experience the romance of the Thabametsi Treehouse, offering panoramic views of the wilderness. Solar-powered and multi-level, the treehouse accommodates up to 2 adults and 2 children, providing an unforgettable out-in-Africa experience.
The Thabametsi Treehouse at Marataba Luxury Lodges
Stargazing: Join the Marataba guides for stargazing sessions during evening game drives or bush dinners, weather permitting. Experience the beauty of the African night sky, free from light pollution, and discover celestial wonders unique to the southern hemisphere.
Spa: Indulge in pampering spa treatments in the privacy of your room or deck, featuring TheraNaka herbal-infused products. Choose from a range of massages, facials, and wellness rituals designed to promote relaxation and rejuvenation.
Yoga: Stretch and unwind on your private deck overlooking the reserve, borrowing yoga mats from the lodge reception. Experience serenity and mindfulness amidst the breathtaking natural surroundings.