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Makanyi is an intimate eight-suite safari lodge nestled within a pristine wilderness area in the Timbavati Nature Reserve, adjoining the iconic Kruger National Park in South Africa.
Perfect for guests seeking exclusivity and exceptional game viewing, the lodge is situated in the quieter southern sector of the reserve, where a low density of safari vehicles ensures an authentic and uncrowded wildlife experience with unrestricted time spent at sightings.
With only three safari vehicles traversing 8,000 hectares of untouched bushveld, guests enjoy a true sense of privacy and immersion in the African wilderness.
Renowned for its warm, homely atmosphere, attentive hospitality, exceptional cuisine, and meticulous attention to detail, Makanyi offers a refined yet welcoming safari experience.
The lodge welcomes guests aged 12 years and older, unless booked exclusively for private use.
Makanyi was proudly recognised in the prestigious Condé Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice Awards 2024 as the #1 Resort in South Africa and the #2 Resort in the World in both the USA and UK editions. And voted the 4th Best Lodge in South Africa in the 2025 Condé Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice Awards.
Open plan flowing from bathroom to bedroom (with sliding door) to lounge to deck. All suites have a deck to relax and view the game which frequents the lodge grounds, and all have views of a waterhole. 140m² (1,500ft²) private suites overlooking the bush, with the year-round dam just 100m away. Custom made furnishings, indoor and outdoor showers, free-standing bathtubs, lounge area with a fireplace for ambiance, bathroom amenities, mini bar & fridge, tea & coffee making facilities, ‘Nespresso’ coffee machine, hair dryer, Wi-Fi (bush/satellite technology permitting!), and in-suite safe.
Room Facilities
Air Conditioning, Balcony / Deck, Bath Towels, Bath, Bed Linen, Complimentary Wi-Fi, Dressing Gowns, Electrical Outlets, En Suite Bathroom, External Shower, Fireplace, Hairdryer, Hand Towels, Internet Access (Complimentary), Laundry Service (Complimentary), Lounge Area, Mini Bar (Complimentary), Mosquito Nets, Outside Shower, Pure Cotton Linen, Queen Bed, Safe, Shower, Smoke Alarm, Tea / Coffee, Telephone, Twin Bed, Wardrobe
Each Pool Suite is situated on opposite sides of the Main Lodge offering even more privacy. Open plan flowing from bathroom to bedroom (with sliding door) to lounge to deck. All suites have a deck to relax and view the game which frequents the lodge grounds. Suite 1 has views of a waterhole, whereas Suite 8 does not. 140m² (1,500ft²) private suites overlooking the bush, with the year-round dam just 100m away. Custom made furnishings, private plunge pools, indoor and outdoor showers, free-standing bathtubs, lounge area with a fireplace for ambiance, sun loungers on the deck for relaxing outside, bathroom amenities, mini bar & fridge, tea & coffee making facilities, ‘Nespresso’ coffee machine, hair dryer, Wi-Fi (bush/satellite technology permitting!), and in-suite safe.
Room Facilities
Air Conditioning, Balcony / Deck, Bath Towels, Bath, Bed Linen, Complimentary Wi-Fi, Dressing Gowns, Electrical Outlets, En Suite Bathroom, External Shower, Fireplace, Hairdryer, Hand Towels, Laundry Service (Complimentary), Lounge Area, Mini Bar (Complimentary), Mosquito Nets, Outside Shower, Plunge Pool, Pure Cotton Linen, Queen Bed, Safe, Shower, Smoke Alarm, Tea / Coffee, Telephone, Twin Bed, Wardrobe
Property Facilities
Accept Credit Cards, Air conditioner, Bar, Communal Dining, Gym on property, Internet Access (Complimentary), Laundry Service, Library, Outdoor Pool / Pool Deck, Restaurant, Secure Parking, Spa, Vegetarian
Room Facilities
Air Conditioning, Balcony / Deck, Bath Towels, Bath, Bed Linen, Complimentary Wi-Fi, Dressing Gowns, Electrical Outlets, En Suite Bathroom, External Shower, Fan, Fireplace, Fridge, Hairdryer, Hand Towels, Internet Access (Complimentary), Laundry Service (Complimentary), Lounge Area, Mini Bar (Complimentary), Mosquito Nets, Outside Shower, Pure Cotton Linen, Queen Bed, Safe, Shower, Tea / Coffee, Twin Bed, Verandah, Wardrobe
Available Services
Airport Shuttle (Available), Credit Card Facilities, Laundry Service (Complimentary), Private Vehicle (Available), Room Service
Activities on Site
Big 5, Bird Watching, Fine Dining, Game Drives, Game Viewing, High Tea, Massages
Activities Nearby
Adrenaline Activities, Animal Encounters, Boat Cruises, Cultural Tours, Elephant Interaction, General Sightseeing, Golf, Helicopter Rides, Helicopter Scenic Flights, Horse Riding, Horse-back Safaris, Hot Air Ballooning, Museums, Natural History Tours, Quad Biking, Scenic Flights
Private photographic safaris are booked through Makanyi and designed for guests who are looking for the full attention of the professional wildlife photographer / tutor to maximize their learning and photographic skills. This is open to and suitable for all levels of photographers, be it first time users or more advanced.
We can adapt our vehicle with specialised equipment for professional photography (equipment not included, to be rented separately). A professional wildlife photographer / tutor is available for a minimum of a 2-day immersive photographic safari. Guests’ can rent camera equipment from Africa Photographic Services (advance notice required).
Pre-booking of our private vehicle and the professional wildlife photographer / tutor is essential. This is subject to availability and rates are on request. T&Cs apply.
There are two thrilling game drives every day: one in the morning and one in the afternoon. This is your opportunity to meet and photograph the incredible animals in the heart of their natural habitat.
Melt into an indulging massage in our spa or in the comfort of your own room, surrounded by the tranquil sounds of nature.
Your daily workout is assured in our fully equipped gymnasium.
Before returning to the lodge for dinner your guide will share and point out the beautiful constellations of the Southern Hemisphere and the unspoilt view of the Milky Way with the odd satellite passing by.
