Marakele National Park is situated in the Limpopo Province of South Africa, 3.5 hours' drive from Pretoria, and lies within the enthralling Waterberg Biosphere. Meaning ‘place of sanctuary' in the Tswana language, the park lives up to its name. Set in the heart of the Waterberg Mountains, the park’s position in a transitional zone between the dry western and moist eastern regions of the country ensures great natural diversity. Majestic mountains, grassy hills, deep valleys and stately, often rare, trees create an peaceful natural environment in which elephants, rhino, big cats and a variety of birds thrive. The area is also home to one of the biggest colonies of the endangered Cape Vulture in the world. To be closer to these large birds while enjoying a phenomenal view of the park, follow a narrow tar road to the top of the Waterberg massif.
Bordering Botswana in South Africa’s North West Province, Madikwe Game Reserve is the fifth-largest reserve in the country and is home to a great number of animal species. It contains a wild dog reserve, and is inhabited by the world-renowned Big Five, as well as Brown Hyenas, Cheetahs, and Aardwolf. Visitors will also be surrounded by over 300 bird species, including vulture, ostrich, and the large kori bustard. The landscape is characterised by vast grasslands, woodlands, and the rugged Tshwene Tshwene hills - creating enthralling scenes that often attract photographers and artists. Visitors can look forward to sunset drinks overlooking the Madikwe Dam. Madikwe Game Reserve is one of the only reserves in South Africa that is malaria free.
