OVERVIEW:
Against the magnificent backdrop of the Waterberg mountain range, on the edge of the Matlabas river, the exclusive-use Marataba Residence is a luxurious nature retreat with a family-friendly ethos and a diverse range of wildlife- and nature-focused activities. Occupying an exquisite riverfront location amidst 23,000 hectares of pristine Marakele National Park wilderness, Marataba is a year-round, malaria-free safari destination for guests of all ages, with game drives, boat safaris, and an unforgettable treehouse experience as part of the mix. Rates are full board and include exclusive use of the Residence, a private open safari vehicle, a personal field guide, a butler service, a chef, all meals, premium drinks, laundry, game drives, bush walks, water safaris, stargazing, bush dining, and kids’ explorer program.
ACCESS & LOCATION:
Marataba Residence is located on the north-western edge of the Waterberg Massif in South Africa’s Limpopo province. Guests can fly by scheduled or private light aircraft from Johannesburg OR Tambo to Thabazimbi Airport, followed by a 40-minute drive.
ACCOMMODATION & FACILITIES AT MARATABA RESIDENCE:
Marataba Residence comprises four beautifully designed, luxurious tents that comfortably accommodate eight adults and two children. Spaced well apart and connected by a central common area, accommodations are positioned on the edge of the Matlabas river, with glass-paneled, fully retractable doors across the front of the bedrooms that open onto private decks boasting picture-perfect views. Light-flooded and elegant, with crisp white linens and billowing mosquito nets over the beds, each tent has an open-plan living and bedroom space with a writing desk and a comfortable sofa. Each en-suite bathroom has a deep freestanding bath, double basins, a separate toilet, and indoor and outdoor showers. The property also benefits from air conditioning, a welcome addition during the hotter months.
The stylish, thatch-roofed communal space features a fully equipped kitchen, lounge, dining area, and bar. Outside, making the most of its riverine frontage and sublime views, there’s a wide deck with plenty of al fresco seating, a boma, a fire deck, and a well-sized swimming pool with sun loungers and shade, surrounded by gardens. A resident butler is on hand to take care of every detail, and there’s also a housekeeper, a 24-hour concierge, and a chef who prepares delicious gourmet breakfasts, lunches, and dinners with all dietary requirements catered for. Spa treatments can be arranged in-room at an additional cost.
ACTIVITIES AT MARATABA SAFARI LODGE:
Built on the Matlabas river, in an area that supports all Big Five, including a significant population of white and black rhinos, Marataba Residence offers a thrilling combination of land- and water-based safaris. The animals in the Marakele National Park are non-migratory, so there is plenty to see all year round. The best period for birdwatching is from October to April. Please take note of the age restrictions and contact the YZ team for further information.
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Game drives
– Game drives take place twice daily in open safari vehicles, making the most of the early morning and late afternoon wildlife presence in the area. Head out at sunrise and in the late afternoon, and explore the reserve’s 23,000 hectares. No more than seven vehicles are allowed in the concession at any one time, making the experience feel thoroughly exclusive. Please note that children aged 6 years and older are welcome on the twice-daily game drives, and there is a dedicated children’s game drive (for young guests aged 3 to 5 years) that departs daily after breakfast. -
Water safaris
– Morning and sunset water safaris are operated on the Matlabas river, led by an experienced Marataba field guide. Guests can expect to see hippo, abundant birdlife, and herds of elephant that collect at the water’s edge to drink and forage. Guests aged 6 and above are welcome on board. -
Bush walks
– Take to the bush for a morning nature walk led by an experienced guide who’ll tailor the activity to your specific interests. Feel the ground beneath your feet, hold a velvety acacia seed pod, hear the crackle of a branch that lets you know life is all around, and meet some of the resident wildlife at eye level! Please note that children under 16 are not permitted on the bush walks. -
Wildlife lectures
– Gain insight at a deeper level into the reserve’s wild spaces as field guides and trackers present short nature talks on a host of subjects. Learn about elephant behaviour, bird species, or the natural environment from the comfort of your own homely lounge. A great option for a rainy day! -
Mack & Madi Kids’ Adventure Safari Club
– Tailor-made activities offer children (5 to 11 years) a little extra freedom and the chance to explore and be kids! Marataba’s Safari Club Eco Garden is an entertainment and education space with a range of fun activities, including ‘spoor’ identification and mould making, pool games, rock painting, cookie baking, picnics, toasting marshmallows, stargazing, and outdoor cinema. Parents are welcome to join in or sneak a few hours for themselves! -
Stargazing
– In an area with minimal light pollution, now is your chance to see planets and stars you might never have noticed before with the naked eye. On this fascinating astral safari, your guide will point out the constellations that shift seasonally and those that are unique to the southern hemisphere (circumpolar constellations). -
Local community experiences
– Experience the rhythms of Obakeng village life on this insightful tour that sheds light on the challenges faced by community members. There might be a chance to visit Heuningvlei Primary School and Itsoseng Daycare Centre on Honingvlei Farm, the sole educational hub for the area. -
Night in a treehouse
– Spend an exhilarating night in nature in the solar-powered two-level treehouse, which offers a main bedroom, shower room, and furnished decks with views of Marakele and the Waterberg mountains. Guests arrive by safari vehicle in the late afternoon, and spend dusk enjoying sundowners and sharing a gourmet picnic while spotting animals on the plains before falling asleep under myriad stars. This is the ideal hideout for a family of four (including two children, 6 to 15 years old) who wish to experience an authentic night in the bush without forfeiting luxury. Please note that the treehouse night incurs an additional cost.
*This property is unfenced and located in a wildlife area, so large and potentially dangerous animals do pass through. If you opt to stay here, always be alert when walking around the camp and request for a member of staff to escort you if you have any concerns. Any guest is escorted after dark as a matter of course.