Travel & Things
Experience the magnificence of Marataba’s breathtaking mountains, vast plains, rich animal diversity, and winding rivers .
As the location sponsor for the upcoming Safari Guide of the Year 2021 competition, we feature the spectacular Marataba Safari Lodge.
From the moment you set foot in this spectacular More Group lodge, you know that you are in for a special time. Although both large and imposing, the lodge, due to its setting within the surrounding landscape manages to be welcoming at the same time.
After a 3 hour drive from Johannesburg, the waiting drinks were exactly what was required to remove the dust from throats as the ubiquitous indemnity forms were filled out.
The vista that awaits arriving guests is truly sublime, the magnificent Waterberg mountain range stretching as far as the eye can see.
Turning away from the mountain, if you can, you get to see the main lodge building laid out in front of you. An incredible sight not viewed from the car park and one that will have arriving visitors gasping in amazement.
Sitting in the garden or on the deck is a great spot to enjoy a meal, a beverage or just to sit and absorb the surrounding beauty.
Who needs to go on a game drive when the wildlife comes to you? The free-roaming Bushbuck will freeze mid-chew to see who you are and, of course, the inevitable troop of Vervet monkeys that have to be carefully watched lest they steal food from your plate.
The waterhole in front of the lodge can also produce some interesting sightings without guests having to leave the comfort of their chairs.
The main building is split into three distinct areas with the reception and curio shop being found in the center, while the lounge to the right and dining room to the left provide comfort and style as befitting their stated purpose.
If the weather is accommodating, then all the meals, breakfast, lunch, and dinner, can be enjoyed outdoors.
Not to mention a high tea that is served just before the afternoon game drive.
There is Wi-Fi available, which can be both a blessing and a curse depending on your point of view.
The accommodation, in the form of luxury tents, is well hidden amongst thick foliage and they all enjoy a view of the imposing Waterberg Mountains. Although are several tents along the same path they are separated by dense vegetation, and as a result are all very private.
All the tents are the same, except for two which have recently had a second bedroom/bathroom built on. The main bedroom is very spacious, with a bathroom on the left and a deck out front so that guests can enjoy a view…of the mountain.
In the second bedroom of the family accommodation, there are comfortable bunk beds for the children as well as an en-suite shower and a toilet for their own use. The lodge is child-friendly and they have a dedicated staff member to entertain the youngsters.
An interesting feature is the beaded wire curtain separates the bathroom from the bedroom, not so much for privacy as a design feature.
With both a bath as well as an indoor and outdoor shower, guests are spoilt for choice.
There is a dressing area behind the wall at the head of the bed. This has two hand basins as well as shelves and hanging space, for those who wish to unpack.
If you want to make a visit here special, time your stay to coincide with a full moon. Being in the bush, listening to the hyena “whoop” and the lion’s vocalization can be an evening that will remain memorable for a long time.
“Here the pace of urban life can be forgotten, and guests can enjoy their bush experience to the full”.
