The undeniable appeal of Marataba Safari Lodge begins with its location. A 23 000 hectare private concession hosting rare antelope and carnivore species in addition to the Big 5, situated a mere 3 hours from Johannesburg. The Waterberg region is staggeringly beautiful – a green landscape of treetops, stretching out in unison to the base of the iconic maasif that characterises this part of the Limpopo Province. Marakele National Park, within which lies the Marataba concession, is one of South Africa’s prime, malaria-free safari destinations. It has over 400 recorded species of bird, and bears the title of stronghold for the rare and endangered Cape Vulture that resides here in the form of its largest breeding colony. An exceptionally beautiful part of the country, taking great strides in the name of conservation, also offers some of the most glorious, luxury accommodation to both local South Africans and international visitors.
A contemporary, yet classic, construction of canvas and stone, Marataba Safari Lodge caters beautifully for both bush-lovers and luxury-seekers. The 15 opulently appointed tents are protected by taut canvas covers that extend over the individual private decks offering shade from the warm bake of the afternoon sun. Wooden floors adorn the bedrooms, leading to the polished concrete ensuite bathrooms, separated by a giant headboard-inspired stone slab and backed by a textured stone wall. From the glorious position of the centrally-placed bed, occupants look out through safari-esque mesh windows, embedded in classic canvas walls. Behind a beaded curtain is a large, stone bath tub, tucked away ever so elegantly, providing a relaxing retreat for peaceful afternoons spent in fragrant tranquillity.
Individual wooden decks are furnished with beanbag chairs, offering a place to rest and truly take in the magnificence of Marakele’s treetops, the river flowing passed the lodge, and the protruding purple mountains of the Waterberg in the distance. Further views can be enjoyed from one of Marataba’s luscious lounges, the Ladies Bar, or the library, which is located in a tall, stone tower. A luminously green lawn stretches out in a velvety fashion from the casual wooden veranda at the communal guest area. Sun loungers, comfort couches and swinging hammocks provide an array of seating options for those slow-paced afternoons spent listening to the hum of busy birds.
Game drives guide guests through this plethoric private reserve, allowing sightings of some of Africa’s rarer wildlife species. Roan, sable and mountain reedbuck offer less familiar sightings for guests of South African game reserves. Brown hyena and cheetah, both endangered members of the wild, can be spotted by the eager eye, giving visitors yet another reason to appreciate this exceptional wildlife experience. With the possibility of seeing all of the Big 5 in this superb private concession, a trundle through the green, vegetative reserve is boundlessly exciting and equally as aesthetically pleasing.
Marataba’s close proximity to Johannesburg makes it an unbeatable option for South Africans looking for a quick and quiet getaway into safari heaven. Utilising this incredible holiday option is so insisted upon, that until the 19th December 2013, Marataba Safari Lodge is being offered to its local guests at special, reduced rates. South Africans can now book their family vacays at this conveniently close, luxury lodge for ZAR 1, 950 per person per night sharing, or ZAR 2, 925 per person per night single.
Contact us to set you up on a sublime South African safari at Marataba.
