When we discovered Marataba, we instantly knew we had found something very special. A 21 000ha piece of unspoilt Africa within Marakele National Park (Setswana for 'place of sanctuary'), it is unlike anything we have ever seen. With spectacular landscapes and iconic wildlife, this place holds its own among South Africa’s greatest reserves.
Within this vast wilderness, Marataba Safari Lodge is one of just two luxury lodges offering small group, exclusive safaris. For a one-on-one, private African safari, you truly don’t get better than this.
Marataba Safari Lodge 360 Virtual Tour
Each of the 11 canvas-and-stone Tented Suites is tastefully furnished and decorated with a contemporary twist. Whether sharing it with lover, friend or family (or keeping it all to yourself), the interior is ample, and the attention to detail impeccable.
Each Tented Suite is approximately 45m2 and has a private deck, a double bed (convertible to twins), air conditioning, open-plan bathroom en-suite, outdoor shower, in-room safe, mini bar, direct-dial telephone, hairdryer and a range of deluxe amenities.
Each of the four luxury tents is ideal for a family safari stay and includes a second children’s bunk-bed room kitted out just for them and with its own en-suite (including a shower). This section is separated from the main bedroom, giving parents (and kids) their own space. These tents are not on stilts to ensure the safety of our young guests.
Each of the four luxury tents is ideal for a family safari stay and includes a second children’s bunk-bed room kitted out just for them and with its own en-suite (including a shower). This section is separated from the main bedroom, giving parents (and kids) their own space. These tents are not on stilts to ensure the safety of our young guests.
Nestled alongside the tranquil Matlabas River in Marataba, this exclusive-use Residence offers sweeping vistas of the landscape and its majestic mountains. This is a family nature retreat where you set your own safari agenda, spend leisurely afternoons observing wildlife along the riverbank, enjoy sundowners and memorable alfresco dinners. You have four separate Luxury Tents for ultimate privacy with a main area that includes a lounge, dining area, kitchen, an open bar, a welcoming fireplace, a boma facility, and a pool. Your residence butler takes care of the details, and your personal chef arranges gourmet meals, and everything in-between. With everything taken care of you can relax and enjoy all the wonders of a safari at Marataba.
Bar, Eco Friendly, Library, Malaria Free, Mobile Connectivity, Pool, Secure Parking, Spa
Air Conditioning, Balcony / Deck, Bath, Complimentary Wi-Fi, Dressing Gowns, En-Suite, Fan, Fridge, Hair Dryer, Internet Access (Complimentary), Laundry Facilities, Mosquito Nets, Outside Shower, Safe, Shower, Tea / Coffee
Credit Card Facilities, Room Service
Big 5, Bird Watching, Boating, Game Drives
Take an unhurried cruise along the Matlabas River on Miss Mara. Nothing tops watching the sun shimmy into a liquid horizon in vivid colour, as you sip on a G ‘n T to the splash of a grunting hippo.
The perspective of the bush is quite different when experienced from the water. An excursion on Miss Mara is highly recommended as a unique and highly enjoyable way to immerse yourself in the magnificence of the reserve.
Morning and afternoon cruises are conducted on the Matlabas River, just 20 minutes drive from the Lodge. Delicious refreshments and snacks are provided; from pastries and hot chocolate, to G ‘n Ts and Canapés.
One of Marataba’s experienced Field Guides will conduct the slow cruise along the river. You can expect to see birdlife a-plenty, hippos in the water, and the many creatures that walk the plains of Marataba along the water’s edge.
Guests staying at Marataba Luxury Lodges will meet the team, receive a pre-operational briefing, and depart at the predetermined time.
Once the rhino has been located and darted, guests will actively participate in the activity, involving tasks that may include: fitting tracking collars, ear-notching, collecting blood and tissue samples, and micro-chipping of horns. This experience does not include dehorning interventions.
Each intervention offers a unique and singular experience with one animal. It's important to note that, with smooth operations, the duration can vary from approximately 30 minutes to 2 hours.
Once the intervention is complete, the blindfold and earplugs are removed, and the reversal drug are given to the rhino.
Opportunities are provided for guests to take photos, and if safe to do so, take photos with the animal and field team. The guide will also photograph the guests experience and these images will be made available upon return.
After the intervention, the conservation team provides a debriefing and a 'behind the scenes' tour of their operations room, for a comprehensive understanding of how the intervention aligns with conservation efforts and how the collected data contributes to the cause.
Please note that interventions are limited to the months between April and September, due to more favourable weather conditions, ensuring the safety of the animals, and there are approximately 60 activities that take place place throughout the year.
Cost:
R95 000.00
For a group of 15 guests
Availability:
April to September