Overview
A hidden gem
Secluded in the Waterberg and surrounded by the malaria-free Marakele National Park, the beautiful Marataba Mountain Lodge enjoys spectacular views across a wilderness shared with just a handful of other guests.
Its five chic suites make the most of the vista, while the main lodge provides more social relaxation areas like the fire pit, dining area and pool.
Mountain Lodge is one of only two luxury lodges in 21,000 private hectares. All of the Big Five, including the rare and endangered black rhino, can be seen here, along with abundant birdlife. The lodge takes guests in on exclusive safaris – enjoy twice-daily game drives, after-breakfast bush walks and late afternoon boat trips.
Facts
At a glance
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Five suites
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Swimming pool
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Dining area and bar
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Malaria-free

Experiences
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Game drives
Game drives, in open safari vehicles, head out each day at sunrise and again in the late afternoon to find the reserve’s many fascinating animals, both diurnal and nocturnal. This is a truly personal experience: no more than seven vehicles are in the concession at any one time and, because the animals are accustomed to them and do not see them as a threat, the field guides are able to take guests within close range of Africa’s most impressive species.
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Bush walks
Enjoy an after-breakfast bush walk on the wild side and be immersed in the bush, rather than just observing it. All five senses are engaged, as you feel the scrub crunch beneath your feet, touch the velvety acacia seed pod, hear the crack of a branch indicating you are not alone, and spot big game at eye level. The lodge's expert guides will tailor walks to each of your area/s of interest, focusing on mammals, birds, insects, plants, geology, etc.
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Boating
The land and animals slipping by, water lapping the boat, a breeze through the grass, birds diving in and out of the scene, the chirp of beetles on repeat like a chorus, there is no better way to get in with nature than with an unhurried early-morning or later afternoon water safari. An experienced Marataba field guide conducts the cruise along the waterway, which provides plentiful game viewing opportunities.
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A night in a treehouse
Thabametsi Treehouse is solar powered and built on two levels – with a main bedroom, shower room, lounge, and furnished decks offering views of the Waterberg and across the verdant expanse of the Marakele. Guests, delivered by safari vehicle in the late afternoon, spend the sunset hours sharing a gourmet picnic and spotting animals out on the plains, before falling asleep counting shooting stars. This is the ideal hideout for a family of four (including two children, 6 to 15 years) who want to experience an authentic night out in Africa – in complete luxury.
Community & Culture
Marataba Safari Lodge is part of the MORE Family Collection which helps funds the More Community Trust. This corporate social investment organisation focuses on development projects across southern Africa that empower communities to contribute their own resources, efforts and skills. This includes supporting number of schools, providing access to clean water access and shelters.
Local employment is a key focus and helps to create thriving communities in the regions where we are located. It is important to us that the working environment is positive, and that staff can develop and achieve their aspirations with us.
Conservation
Based at Marataba in the Marakele National Park, MORE Field Guide College was founded in 2014 and was inspired by passionate conservationist, the late Nick John More (1967–2013). It fulfils his wish to continue the legacy of three generations of More nature ambassadors, dedicated to protecting our environment, and to share their love and knowledge of the world’s last wild places. Therefore, students are chosen for their genuine and palpable love of the bush, and are trained into guides with the ability to inspire this in others from around the world.
Example trips
Get inspired
Browse our example trips and get in contact to start planning your very own adventure.
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Example trips
Get inspired
Browse our example trips and get in contact to start planning your very own adventure.
What makes us different
Why Niarra


Niarra Travel is a forward-thinking travel company headquartered in London born out of a passion to do things differently.
In Swahili, a Bantu language spoken by millions in Eastern, Central and Southern Africa, the name Niara means "with utmost purpose" and our team are united by a passion for exploration and a belief that the right kind of travel can make the world a better place.
Our Travel Researchers are here to create incredible trips with a positive impact for you.
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Unforgettable experiences
Creating your trip is entirely collaborative and our Travel Researchers are here for every step.
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Positive impact
Curated sustainable experiences and accommodation that maximize the benefits to local people and place.
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Fairness and transparency
An open, competitive pricing structure that ensures more money goes to where it's needed in the destination.