Marataba Mountain Lodge lies within a 23 000-hectare concession in the eastern sector of the magnificent Marakele National Park, at the foot of the Waterberg Mountains, approximately 3.5-hour drive north of Johannesburg in western Limpopo. Thabazimbi, Rustenburg and Ellisras are all within easy reach.

Within a dramatic landscape encompassing vast plains, dense bushveld, winding rivers, deep gorges and majestic mountains, Marataba is an exclusive private concession in the heart of Limpopo's Marakele National Park, a 'place of sanctuary' for Africa's Big Five and a multitude of other animal species including rare antelope such as roan, sable and mountain reedbuck. This malaria-free wilderness is also home to the world's largest breeding colony of the endangered Cape Vulture. Birdlife within the park is prolific with more than 400 species having been recorded, a veritable birder's Eden.

Marataba Mountain Lodge stands out by offering both the most luxurious and gorgeous accommodation as well as offering up some of the most beautiful landscapes in the country! The lodge is set on a hillside with truly stunning 180-degree views into Waterfall Valley, an isolated and scenically superb section of the Marakele National Park.

Previously specializing in walking safaris (when it was known as Marataba Trails) the lodge has now been repositioned as a conventional safari lodge product (ie 2 game drives offered daily) a change which promises to bring its undoubted charms to a much larger potential market, The good news is that you are now offered in effect the best of both worlds: for guests wanting to enjoy the conventional 2 game drives a day safari recipe, Marataba Mountain Lodge now offers this; however, if you’re still keen on enjoying a walking safari through some of the most spectacular scenery in any of the South African reserves, this is now offered as an extra cost alternative to the morning game drive. With rivers flowing through gorges and grassy plains framed by imposing mountains, these walking trails are an experience to be savoured with the walks taking place in the morning when temperatures are cooler and energy levels higher.

The lodge is cleverly hidden on the hillside with 180-degree views into Waterfall Valley. It has a true sense of wilderness, utterly remote and with only 5 rooms.

Everything in the lodge reflects the natural bush outside – it is designed to complement and not compete with the landscape. But great attention has been given to ensuring a quality experience. The result is what they term a ‘Scandi-safari’ design which is off the grid – taking its energy solely from the sun’s rays.

This is the ideal place if you are looking for a ‘digital detox’ with neither wi-fi nor cell phone reception. However solar power allows camera equipment & phones to be recharged to ensure they are always at the ready to capture another glorious day!

All five rooms have spectacular views down into Waterfall Valley, which is particularly magical at sunset. Each has a private shaded viewing deck, fireplace and en suite bathroom with a rain shower (with a view). The lodge has recently added a small swimming pool for relaxation during the heat of the day.