Experiences

• 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.

• 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.

• Miss Mara water safari

  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.

• Mack and Madi kids’ programme

  At Marataba Safari Lodge, the Eco Garden children’s entertainment and education space keeps young guests occupied with the wonders of the natural world, as well as sporting and creative activities, during their stays. Just some of the fun includes: family morning game drives, bug CSI, spoor casting, pool games, rock painting, cookie baking in the kitchen, kids’ picnic, toasting marshmallows and stargazing, and kids outdoor cinema. Parents are welcome to join in, or sneak a few hours for themselves.

• 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.