Marakele National Park


Marataba Safari Lodge Location Map

Marataba Safari Lodge is situated in a Big 5 malaria-free 23,000 hectare private concession at the foothills of the Waterberg Mountains which forms part of the Marakele National Park, just 3.5 hours drive from Johannesburg. The Marakele National Park is a haven for an impressive variety of wildlife, and contrasting majestic mountain landscapes, grass-clad hills and deep valleys characterise this spectacular area.

All 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 (more than 800 breeding pairs) have settled here and may be seen on your daily morning and afternoon game drives. The Marataba rangers have an intricate knowledge of the bush and its wildlife, and each open game viewing vehicle carries just 6 guests.

Bush walks after breakfast engage all your senses as your guide introduces you to the smaller creatures and tells you about the various plants and trees, many with fascinating medicinal properties and traditional uses. You can also enjoy a morning or sunset boat cruise on the Miss Mara along the Matlabas River, providing plenty of game-viewing opportunities as the animals come to the water to drink and forage.

The 15 canvas-and-stone tented suites are exquisitely furnished and decorated with a contemporary twist. Each suite has its own private deck overlooking the sweeping plains and meandering river below. A free-standing stone bath is the main feature of the bathroom, while indoor and outdoor showers take full advantage of the dramatic scenery of the Waterberg Mountains. Families with children under 12 years of age can choose a Family Suite, which includes a separate bedroom and bathroom.

There is also the Thabametsi Treehouse (additional surcharge and weather dependent) which offers complete privacy. You’ll arrive just before sunset and the coolness of the approaching evening brings animals into the open. A gourmet picnic can be enjoyed at your table on the deck, from where you have front row seats to the wildest theatre. Then curl up in the four-poster bed under a blanket of stars and a warm cosy duvet, and go to sleep with the sounds of the African bush surrounding you.

Featured Special Offer saf-6444

Marataba Safari Lodge

Stay 3 nights for the price of 2 at Marataba Safari Lodge in Marakele National Park. Fully Inclusive basis.

Valid:   1 November 2024  -  30 November 2024.

Prices On Request

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Show Rates in
Our standard rates for a Family Luxury Safari Tent (StayMore Offer - Stay 4 Pay 3)
DatesPriceBasisTypeNights
1 September 2024 to 31 October 2024 GBP 744 USD 974 ZAR 16,736 EUR 885 per person sharingContracted StayMore Offer - Stay 4 Pay 34+ nights
1 November 2024 to 30 November 2024 GBP 744 USD 974 ZAR 16,736 EUR 885 per person sharingContracted StayMore Offer - Stay 4 Pay 34+ nights
1 December 2024 to 19 December 2024 GBP 570 USD 747 ZAR 12,830 EUR 679 per person sharingContracted StayMore Offer - Stay 4 Pay 34+ nights
4 January 2025 to 31 March 2025 GBP 724 USD 948 ZAR 16,287 EUR 861 per person sharingContracted StayMore Offer - Stay 4 Pay 34+ nights
1 April 2025 to 30 April 2025 GBP 724 USD 948 ZAR 16,287 EUR 861 per person sharingContracted StayMore Offer - Stay 4 Pay 34+ nights

Prices are on a per person sharing basis (pps).

Special offers for longer stays or when booked as part of a longer itinerary may apply - details on request.

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Rates Include

All meals; tea/coffee; all beverages (including soft drinks, beers, spirits and wines); 2 daily game drives with FGASA qualified ranger; game drive refreshments and snacks; the Marakele NP entrance/gate fee; the Marakele Guest Conservation Contribution; and transfers between Marataba Safari Lodge and Marataba Mountain Lodge are included.


Children Policy

Children of any age are welcome. Rates available on request. Children under 6 are not permitted on game drives but special kiddies game drives for 3-5 year olds are available after breakfast.


Bush Walks / Walking Safaris

Children under the age of 16 years are not permitted on bush walks in the reserve or the Miss Mara water safaris. Guests over 60 years old wishing to join a bush walk are required to have a letter or certificate from their doctor confirming they are in good health and are physically fit to do the walk. A bush walk can last a couple of hours and involve walking over uneven terrain that may contain dangerous wildlife in potentially high temperatures. Guests may need to move quickly and for a sustained period through rough bush terrain if instructed to do so by their guide.

Regardless of age or the provision of a doctors certificate, the final decision on whether a guest can join a bush walk remains with the guide and lodge manager.


Special Offers

 

Marataba Safari Lodge: Stay 3 nights for the price of 2

Free Night
Marataba Safari Lodge: Stay 3 nights for the price of  2 Marakele National Park

Code: SAF-6444


Stay 3 nights for the price of 2 at Marataba Safari Lodge in Marakele National Park. Fully Inclusive basis.

Valid:   1 November 2024  -  30 November 2024.

Book Before:   27 November 2024.

Prices on Request

Enquire Now
 

Marataba Safari Lodge: Stay 3 nights for the price of 2

Free Night
Marataba Safari Lodge: Stay 3 nights for the price of  2 Marakele National Park

Code: SAF-6445


Stay 3 nights for the price of 2 at Marataba Safari Lodge in Marakele National Park. Fully Inclusive basis.

Valid:   1 December 2024  -  19 December 2024.

Book Before:   16 December 2024.

Prices on Request

Enquire Now
 

Marataba Safari Lodge: Stay 3 nights for the price of 2

Free Night
Marataba Safari Lodge: Stay 3 nights for the price of  2 Marakele National Park

Code: SAF-6446


Stay 3 nights for the price of 2 at Marataba Safari Lodge in Marakele National Park. Fully Inclusive basis.

Valid:   4 January 2025  -  31 March 2025.

Book Before:   28 March 2025.

Prices on Request

Enquire Now
 

Marataba Safari Lodge: Stay 4 nights for the price of 3

Free Night
Marataba Safari Lodge: Stay 4 nights for the price of  3 Marakele National Park

Code: SAF-6460


Stay 4 nights for the price of 3 at Marataba Safari Lodge in Marakele National Park. Fully Inclusive basis.

Valid:   1 September 2024  -  31 October 2024.

Book Before:   27 October 2024.

Prices on Request

Enquire Now
 

Marataba Safari Lodge: Stay 4 nights for the price of 3

Free Night
Marataba Safari Lodge: Stay 4 nights for the price of  3 Marakele National Park

Code: SAF-6461


Stay 4 nights for the price of 3 at Marataba Safari Lodge in Marakele National Park. Fully Inclusive basis.

Valid:   1 November 2024  -  30 November 2024.

Book Before:   26 November 2024.

Prices on Request

Enquire Now
 

Marataba Safari Lodge: Stay 4 nights for the price of 3

Free Night
Marataba Safari Lodge: Stay 4 nights for the price of  3 Marakele National Park

Code: SAF-6462


Stay 4 nights for the price of 3 at Marataba Safari Lodge in Marakele National Park. Fully Inclusive basis.

Valid:   1 December 2024  -  19 December 2024.

Book Before:   15 December 2024.

Prices on Request

Enquire Now
 

Marataba Safari Lodge: Stay 4 nights for the price of 3

Free Night
Marataba Safari Lodge: Stay 4 nights for the price of  3 Marakele National Park

Code: SAF-6463


Stay 4 nights for the price of 3 at Marataba Safari Lodge in Marakele National Park. Fully Inclusive basis.

Valid:   4 January 2025  -  31 March 2025.

Book Before:   27 March 2025.

Prices on Request

Enquire Now
 

Marataba Safari Lodge: Stay 4 nights for the price of 3

Free Night
Marataba Safari Lodge: Stay 4 nights for the price of  3 Marakele National Park

Code: SAF-6464


Stay 4 nights for the price of 3 at Marataba Safari Lodge in Marakele National Park. Fully Inclusive basis.

Valid:   1 April 2025  -  30 April 2025.

Book Before:   26 April 2025.

Prices on Request

Enquire Now
 
 

The Kids Programme offers tailor-made activities to give children (5 to 11 years) a little extra freedom to explore and just be kids. The Eco Garden children’s entertainment and education space keeps young guests occupied with the wonders of the natural world, as well as sporting and creative activities, during their stays. Just some of the fun includes family morning game drives, bug CSI, spoor casting, pool games, rock painting, cookie baking in the kitchen, picnics, toasting marshmallows, stargazing, and kids outdoor cinema. Parents are welcome to join in, or sneak a few hours for themselves.

The family morning game drives (specifically for the very young guests aged 3 to 5 years) goes out daily from 10:00 to 12:00 in summer and from 11:00 to 13:00 in winter. Parents are welcome to go along, subject to availability of seats.


All of the holidays we prepare are tailor-made, but this might give you an idea of how Marataba Safari Lodge can be included in you own dream holiday.

Luxury Train Journey across South Africa

10 nights

5 Star Accommodation

Marataba Safari Lodge
Marataba Safari Lodge
Marakele National Park
The Bay Hotel
The Bay Hotel
Cape Town
Rovos Rail - Cape Town to Pretoria
Rovos Rail Journey
Rovos Rail

Destination: South Africa.

10 night itinerary including Marakele National Park, Cape Town and Rovos Rail.

Price Per Person From
Enquire Now
 

Safari and Beach Getaway

10 nights

5 Star Accommodation

Marataba Safari Lodge
Marataba Safari Lodge
Marakele National Park
Santorini Mozambique
Santorini Mozambique
Vilanculos

Destination: South Africa and Mozambique.

10 night itinerary including Marakele National Park and Vilanculos.

Price Per Person From
Enquire Now
 

*Prices are per person and are based on today's exchange rates. Exchange rates are subject to change and are updated daily.

Prices exclude international flights - ask us if you would like to include these.




Reload Map

Marataba Safari Lodge Location.

Directions For Drivers

Please DO NOT follow your GPS to Marataba. Many of the prescribed roads are not navigable in a normal vehicle. Following GPS co-ordinates can result in getting lost in the middle of the bush, or unnecessary delays.

From Johannesburg OR Tambo Airport: Depart OR Tambo following the airport exit signs (R21 and R24). Approximately 200m thereafter, the road forks. Take the right fork towards R21 N Pretoria/R24 Johannesburg. The road immediately turns sharply to the right. Get into the left lane and follow the signs to R21 N Pretoria as you exit the airport.

After exiting the airport, get into the left lane and follow the R21 N Kempton Park/Pretoria signs. After 300m, take the left off-ramp, following the R21N Kempton Park/Pretoria signs. Once on the R21N drive for 36.3 km.

You will see signs indicating exit 134 (N1 Noord, Pretoria/Polokwane/Johannesburg). Take the 134 exit. Immediately thereafter, the road forks. Take the right fork towards N1 North-Polokwane. Continue on the NI North-Polokwane passing through 2 toll gates (cash required).

Take off-ramp to Bela-Bela / Warmbaths (R516). Once in Bela-Bela, turn right at the first set of traffic lights into Marx Street (Waterfront Shopping Centre ahead of you). Continue across one intersection with traffic lights (Engen and Total petrol stations on either side) until you reach a T-junction. The Elephant Spring Hotels is ahead of you. Turn left into Sutter Road (Thabazimbi signpost ahead). At the T-junction, turn right into Ritchie Road. From here on, follow the signs to Thabazimbi (R516).

In Thabazimbi, turn left at third stop street towards Lephalale/Sentrum (at the Total petrol station) onto the R510. Travel for 32 km, and turn right to Lephalale (stay on the R510). Drive 11 km and turn right at the Marataba Safari Lodge sign post. Travel 8 km along the gravel road. The Marataba gate is on your left hand side.

Once inside the gate, follow the signs to the lodge through the reserve.  Do not get out of your car until you reach the lodge. You may see some wildlife on your way - if you do, slow down and maintain a good distance. Do not drive off-road in any circumstances.

Please Note: The gate opens at 07:00 and closes at 17:00. Please advise your consultant at Travel Butlers if you will be arriving outside of these times so that the necessary arrangements can be made.



General Information For Guests

Each Tented Suite is approximately 45 square meters and has a private deck, a kingsize bed (convertible to twin beds on request), air conditioning, open-plan en-suite bathroom, outdoor shower, in-room safe, mini bar, direct-dial telephone, hair dryer and a range of deluxe amenities.

The main lodge facilities include a large lounge with a fireplace, swimming pool with pool loungers, hammocks in the trees, complimentary Wi-Fi access in the main lodge area, a curio shop, and a well stocked library and bar.

Each game viewing vehicle carries 6 guests only.

Bush walks go out after breakfast and last between 90 minutes to 2 hours, depending on guests' fitness levels.

A laundry service is available (additional cost).

Spa treatments (additional cost) are offered in the privacy of guests' suites by expert therapists.

The Boutique offers a range of African-produced and high-end clothing, accessories, art and momentos, as well as everyday 'necessities'.

The Thabametsi Treehouse hideout is solar powered and built over 2 levels, and includes a main bedroom, full walk in double shower, lounge, and a viewing deck. It has been securely constructed above the ground, where the animals remain at a safe and comfortable distance. Your field guide will provide a full orientation before departing, but is always on call via radio until you are collected the next morning after sunrise and a good breakfast. Your suite back at the lodge is still available just in case you wish to return at any time.

Your rate includes a Guest Conservation Contribution, which goes towards protecting the animals and their environment.

Please be advised that the use of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), terrestrial UAVs, as well as aerial UAVs (or drones) is prohibited for the following reasons:-

1. The lodge is committed to ensuring that all guests and wildlife are not disturbed, where practically possible, by artificial mechanisms of any kind;

2. Security concerns around rhino poaching;

3. The use of recreational drones is prohibited in terms of Section101 of SA Civil Aviation Regulations 2015.

This policy includes the lodge staff as well as professional photographers.


Bush Walks / Walking Safaris

Children under the age of 16 years are not permitted on bush walks in the reserve or the Miss Mara water safaris. Guests over 60 years old wishing to join a bush walk are required to have a letter or certificate from their doctor confirming they are in good health and are physically fit to do the walk. A bush walk can last a couple of hours and involve walking over uneven terrain that may contain dangerous wildlife in potentially high temperatures. Guests may need to move quickly and for a sustained period through rough bush terrain if instructed to do so by their guide.

Regardless of age or the provision of a doctors certificate, the final decision on whether a guest can join a bush walk remains with the guide and lodge manager.


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If you're not sure which place might be best for your own trip then either give us a call or get in touch via the website, and we'd be delighted to run through the options with you.

Enquire Now