When you arrive in Johannesburg, a local representative will greet you at the airplane door with a sign displaying your name. Together with your assistant, you will be guided through immigration, baggage collection, and customs. A private transfer to your hotel is included.

A private transfer is available from Johannesburg to Marakele National Park, with a travel time of approximately three hours.

Upon arrival, settle into your room and then meet your ranger for a late afternoon snack. Afterward, embark on an exciting game drive across the breathtaking plains of Marataba. This stunning landscape, surrounded by majestic mountains, is teeming with wildlife, including the famous Big 5. Your safari adventure begins as soon as you step onto the safari vehicle. Throughout the reserve, your knowledgeable guide and tracker work together to ensure no animal goes unnoticed. Keep an eye out for elephants hidden in the bush and the possibility of encountering a pride of young lions awakening from their afternoon slumber. With such an abundance of resident species, you can expect endless opportunities for thrilling game sightings.

At Marataba, each day is meant to immerse you in South Africa's breathtaking beauty.

In the morning, rise early for a quick snack and tea or coffee before embarking on a game drive with your experienced ranger. Spot the 'Big Five' and other rare game.

After a thrilling morning of exploring the reserve, enjoy a delicious breakfast at your lodge.

Take a break and relax for a few hours before indulging in a sumptuous lunch prepared just for you.

Cool off in the pool, catch up on reading, or simply observe the wildlife around the lodge during afternoon tea.

In the evening, as the heat subsides, embark on another game drive. Witness predators on the prowl and herbivores grazing in the grass. Experience a breathtaking sunset over the bush.

After returning to your lodge, share stories of your adventures and marvel at the beauty of the starry sky.

Set off before dawn, joining your guide and tracker on a safari vehicle for an exciting game drive through Marataba's plains. Wildlife viewing is best in the morning, as temperatures are still cool and the bush is bustling with activity. Stay alert and keep your camera at the ready, as you may encounter incredible sights at every turn. Your knowledgeable guide ensures that no animal goes unnoticed and provides interesting information about the flora and fauna you encounter. After a few hours in the wilderness, return to your lodge in time for breakfast.

Marataba's stunning savannah plains, surrounded by majestic ancient peaks, create the perfect backdrop for your African adventure. While staying at the lodge, you can choose from various activities. Experienced hikers can explore specialized trails that lead to the farthest corners of the reserve, from the plains' edge to the mountain tops. This is also a great opportunity to slow down and appreciate the smaller details often missed during game drives. Another option is to stay at the Thabametsi Treehouse. This luxurious hideout, nestled between the savannah, mountains, and sky, offers a unique wilderness experience. With the sounds of animals all around and the vast night sky above, it's a truly unforgettable escape.

Please be aware that there may be additional fees for certain activities. Contact your Destination Expert for more information.

Experience the thrill of tracking animals on foot during bush walks at Marataba. Your experienced ranger will guide you, pointing out the fascinating medicinal properties and traditional uses of local plants. Don't miss the chance to see smaller bush creatures like dung beetles, reed frogs, spiders, and termite mounds. If you're lucky, you may even spot the Big 5 animals from a safe distance.

In the afternoon, enjoy tea and pastries before heading back into the bush. Watch as predators wake from their mid-day nap and herbivores graze for nutritious plants. Journey across the reserve in your safari vehicle and observe these beautiful creatures in their natural habitat. Take in the stunning scenery of Marataba and witness a breathtaking sunset over the Waterberg peaks.

As sunset approaches, your field guide will drive you to a gourmet, tapas-style picnic on the deck. From here, you'll have a front row seat to the wildlife theatre unfolding across the plains. Retreat to your comfortable glamping accommodation with a spacious King Bed and two hot showers. This is the ultimate African adventure that brings you close to nature.

Start your day early with a ranger, enjoying coffee and snacks before heading out into the bush. Take in the stunning scenery of Marataba from the comfort of your vehicle, admiring the green hills and endless plains guarded by the majestic Waterberg. Explore this untouched part of South Africa, spotting the many animals and birds that call it home. Your knowledgeable guide and tracker will do their best to show you the wildlife and share their insights about Marataba's ecosystem. As the temperature rises, return to your lodge for a delicious breakfast.

Experience the beauty of Marataba from a different perspective on a water safari. Board the 'Miss Mara' boat and observe the land and animals as you glide through the water. Feel the refreshing breeze and listen to the chirping of birds and beetles, creating a peaceful chorus. This unhurried boat trip, either in the morning or afternoon, allows you to connect with nature and appreciate the reserve surrounding your lodge.

The African adventure continues with an early morning game drive across the picturesque plains of Marataba. Accompanied by your safari guide, you board the safari vehicle and embark on a thrilling game-tracking adventure. Follow the trails crisscrossing the grassy savannah and explore off-road for more exciting wildlife encounters. Witness herds of buffalo grazing in the shrubbery and elephants enjoying sand baths. Each game drive offers unique insights into the lives of the African beasts.

In the afternoon, your African adventure reaches new heights as you venture deep into the untamed wilderness surrounding your lodge. Your experienced guides know the best viewing spots and have extensive knowledge of the ecosystem, making it easy to track animals in their natural habitat. Keep an eye out for the elusive bush inhabitants and take note of the smaller details that tell the story of this unique environment. Look for termite mounds, trees marked by elephants, and listen to the haunting bird calls. After a few hours in the bush, return to the lodge for dinner.

We offer a private transfer service from Marakele National Park to Johannesburg with an estimated travel duration of around 3 hours.