Conducted twice daily or as you prefer, in open Land Rovers with an armed ranger and a tracker, normally conducted early morning and late afternoon to search for the more elusive and nocturnal animals by spotlight.

Game viewing opportunities abound. From the early morning birdlife as the sun peeks over the horizon, to our resident warthog family that frequents the lodge lawns during the day as well as the elephant herds that choose to quench their thirst in our swimming pool, there is always the possibility of a sighting.

Pearl-spotted owl, giraffe, hyena, wild dog, zebra, warthog, elephant and vervet monkey are among the frequent visitors — not forgetting a variety of antelope: kudu, impala, waterbuck and nyala.

“On foot, the pulse of Africa comes through your boot. You are an animal among others, chary of the shadowed places, of sudden quiet in the air” – Petere Matthiessen, The Tree Where Man Was Born

Join our highly skilled guides on foot to track big game in the surrounds, from antelope to elephant and experience the ultimate feeling of being one with the African bushveld.

A fresh footprint in the dust, the faint sound of a breaking branch, wet mud rubbed on a tree, the presence of birds or a sudden quiet in the air are all part of the tracking experience. The senses are heightened searching for clues, sounds or smells to indicate an animal is nearby.

Looking for a different photographic perspective? Makumu's ground-level photographic bunker offers the opportunity to be at eye level with the water to take spectacular shots of wildlife visiting the watering hole. Nicknamed iThumbela, loosely translated meaning “place to hide” in the Shangaan language, this is the perfect vantage point for the perfect shot!

Optional additional experiences at Makumu

With our optional extras at Makumu there is something for everyone!

Reptile demonstrations - Learn more about these magnificent creatures from a reptile expert.
Stargazing - Enjoy observing or imaging celestial objects in the sky at Makumu.
Massage - To take that relaxation to the next level.
Get Active - Use of our exercise equipment for those who will miss their daily trip to the gym.
Eco Children visit - Visit a local NPO community initiative that Makumu actively supports.
Flying Safaris - Enjoy a flying safari with Blyde River Canyon Scenic Flight or Microlights with Leading Edge Flight School

Experience one of our panorama route sightseeing and adventure flights by helicopter.

Spend quiet time in our hide overlooking the watering hole and watch as the wildlife come and go to quench their thirst in the hot African sun. For the more adventurous, the treehouse also provides guests with endless views of the Klaserie as well as the opportunity to spot wildlife from up high!