The essence of the solar-powered, Scandi-style Marataba Mountain Lodge is in its exclusive location – secluded in the Waterberg and surrounded by the Marakele National Park. Its design and operations have taken their cue from the earth, serving to merge the lodge with its environment. Marataba welcomes those in search of peace and space.
Just five private Eco Suites, welcoming just 10 guests at a time, open onto a wilderness world of their own – renowned for its magnificent scenery and flourishing wildlife. The main lodge provides more social relaxation areas and a shared Rock Pool, which seems to skim off into the Waterfall Valley below.
Mountain Lodge is one of only two luxury lodges in the Marakele National Park and feels like a privileged perch to take in this 21 000ha private section of the malaria-free Marakele National Park. Lesser known to visitors, it is one of South Africa’s most spectacularly beautiful places.
Luxury Suite (5 rooms)
Each of the luxurious suites will have a king sized bed/ twin beds, a private shaded viewing deck, a fireplace, en-suite bathroom with a rain dance shower (with a view), free standing vanity and a mini viewing deck.
Note: Due to its elevated location on a mountainside, Marataba Mountain Lodge and its remote Eco Suites are not recommended for guests who are physically challenged or impaired.
Our Treehouse (1 room)
Thabametsi is the newest addition to the MORE Treehouses collection. Miles away from lodge life, yet luxurious – and all yours. Arrive at dusk to a treat-laden picnic and watch as the views unfold in pure, unspoiled drama. Come morning, it’s worth taking your coffee at sunrise. Thabametsi gets you closer to nature without having to rough it – and deluxe Africology shower products heighten the sensory experience.
Solar-powered and built over two levels, Thabametsi features an enclosed shower room, and bedroom, lounge and viewing decks – presenting the Waterberg and Marakele plains in all their wild expanse. From here, relax assured that the animals remain at a safe distance and your field guide is on call should you feel you need them.
All of the Big Five, including the rare and endangered black rhino, can be seen here, along with abundant birdlife, including the world’s largest colony of endangered Cape vultures. The lodge takes guests in on exclusive safaris – enjoy twice-daily game drives, after-breakfast bush walks, specialist Marataba Trails, and cruise into the late afternoon with a sundowner Miss Mara Water Safari.
EARLY RISERS - Morning Safari
It’s in the cooler sunrise hours that the reserve’s animals are most active, begging to forage, hunt and make their way to the rivers and waterholes, while others return from a night on the prowl. Being up with them, you are party to a morning ritual that few other’s get to see.
KEEN EYES - Evening Safari
More than an opportunity to try and spot the animals that didn’t show themselves on the morning drive, this time of day brings out a whole other group of nocturnal creatures. As the light dims, it’ll be their gleaming eyes that give away their positions as your guide takes you closer to investigate.
UP CLOSE - Bush Walk
Part of the Morning Safari, our bush walks are a special chance to get off the vehicle and in touch with nature. Your expert guide will position you downwind of bigger game, who remain unaware of your presence, and call your attention to the smaller creatures often missed on drives.
SPECIALISED HIKES - Marataba Trails
Our trails put you in the thick of things, with routes that lead past watering holes, into forested gorges, to historical interest areas, and over mountain crests presenting Africa in all its Magnificence. Our expert guides will advise on routes based on your fitness and interests.
WATER SAFARI - Miss Mara
Our morning and afternoon Miss Mara Water Safaris along the Matlabas offer a different perspective and change of pace. From your seat on the deck, enjoy drinks and snacks as the land and animals go by. And if you’re going to sail into an African sunset, this is the way to do it.
RELAX & UUNWIND
Our location gives us a head start in the healing stakes: set in peaceful retreat, surrounded by the endless green of the Marakele – the colour of wellbeing. In-suite spa therapies and yoga mats are on offer and, in complete privacy, you can leave the doors open, allowing the soundtrack of birdsong to stream in. This sense of contentment isn’t limited to massages and sun salutations – wholesome food, luxurious accommodation, and personal service complete the experience.
To see more on Marataba Mountain Lodge click HERE
South Africa offers a varied environment and cultural experience to its visitors. Located on the southern end of Africa, this country features beautiful locations to spot wildlife ranging from hippos in the Limpopo River, to zebras in the savannah, dolphins off of the coast, and penguins in the cape. Vacationers and tourists interested in a cultural experience can explore the bustling cities and take in the nightlife of South Africa. Volunteer vacationers and humanitarians traveling to South Africa can find opportunities to help a community in need while on their trip abroad. Many non-profit groups accept donations to help make a difference in the region.
Many of the service projects in South Africa work to improve educational standards and wellness in the African communities. Groups working to improve education provide supplies and support to local schools. Visitors can donate school supplies and art supplies to these groups. Wildlife enthusiasts can help environmental groups through charitable donations; many of these groups are working to build and improve natural reserves and increase awareness of conservation and knowledge of food production. Wellness service projects can work to provide medical care and support to under-served communities. Travelers interested in responsible tourism can donate medical supplies to help these groups.
To find out more about these vital programs and to see what you should pack along on your trip, click HERE