There is a mystical place at the foot of the Waterberg Mountains on the ancient trade route through southern Africa, from the mighty tower of “Great Zimbabwe”, over the raging Limpopo River and across vast plains teeming with game. In this hidden place, discover Marataba, epitomising all that is Africa.

This luxurious game lodge reflects Africa’s ancient wisdom and culture, the glorious forms and colour presenting a vibrant haven at the epicenter of modern design. Enter a sanctuary of mystery in harmony with the energy of nature and the environment, built of indigenous stone, timber, sand and soil, enhanced by murmuring waters and vast vistas liberated by glass walls.

Inspired by the discovery of primeval ruins, Marataba embraces both the contemporary and the ancient in an exciting union of innovative architecture, design and technology, paying tribute to, and confirming, the concept of the African Renaissance. Lulled by the heartbeat of the bushveld, awed by towering mountains, enthralled by the abundance of wildlife, secure and sensually nurtured in the indulgent atmosphere, live your dreams of safari at Marataba, the place where the plains touch the mountains. Marataba is a member of Relais & Chateaux.

Evocative of ancient African remains, stone-masonry characterises the main lodge with huge expanses of glass taking full advantage of the spectacular panoramic scenery. Admire the view while enjoying a cocktail in the Ladies Bar or simply relax in The Wallow with a book from the library, housed within the stone tower with a birds-eye view of the breathtaking surroundings.

Gourmet cuisine with fresh African flavours is served either in the elegantly appointed dining room or outdoors on the dining verandah or, alternatively, under a glorious African sky. And, as temperatures rise in Limpopo, cool off in the crystal clear pool. The Main Lodge also boasts a Guest Business Centre for those guests who cannot totally escape the outside world. Mobile phone reception is erratic. Marataba is an ideal wedding and incentive destination with tailor-made options and activities available on request.

Within a dramatic landscape encompassing vast plains, dense bushveld, winding rivers, deep gorges and majestic mountains, Marataba is an exclusive 23,000 hectare private concession in the heart of Limpopo’s Marakele National Park, a ‘place of sanctuary’ for Africa’s Big Five and a multitude of other animal species including rare antelope such as roan, sable and mountain reedbuck. This malaria-free wilderness is also home to the world’s largest breeding colony of the endangered Cape Vulture. Birdlife within the park is prolific with more than 400 species having been recorded, a veritable birder’s Eden.

The recommended check-in time at Marataba is around mid-day. Our superb luncheon is served between 12h30 and 14h00 and thereafter the opportunity to indulge - perhaps an afternoon siesta in your luxurious suite, lazing around the pool, or simply absorbing the tranquil atmosphere of the African bush. Afternoon High Tea, served at 16h00, is followed by an exhilarating Game Drive with an experienced guide, with time for a quiet cocktail on return to the Lodge before being seated for dinner between seven-thirty and eight. Marataba welcomes children of 8 upwards.

Fall asleep listening to the faraway sounds of the African night - the distant roar of a lion, the trumpet of an elephant, the grunt of a hippo ….. Guests receive a discreet wake-up call in time for coffee and tea and the morning game drive, and so a new day’s adventure begins. A sumptuous breakfast is served after the game drive at the lodge. Guests are requested to check out by 12h00 on the day of departure.

Marataba Safari Company’s exclusive concession lies in the magnificent Contract National Park to the east of the Marakele National Park in Western Limpopo. The park is situated at the foot of the Waterberg Mountains, approximately 3 hours drive north of Johannesburg and about an hour and 20 min from Sun City in western Limpopo. Thabazimbi, Rustenburg and Lephalale are all within easy reach.

By Road: From Johannesburg International follow the R21 to Pretoria and then the N1 North toward Polokwane / Pietersburg. After approximately 20km take the N4 / Rustenburg off-ramp and travel for 40km before taking the off-ramp to Brits. At the stop sign turn right towards Brits and continue straight through Brits for 140 km to Thabazimbi. In Thabazimbi turn left at the second stop sign (at the Total filling station) towards Lephalale / Sentrum, take the R510 north for 32.2km, turning right at the Lephalale sign. After 11.3km turn right into Rooiberg Road passing the police station at 1.1km.  At 8.2km turn left into the entryway for Marataba Safari Company.

Marataba is 310km from Johannesburg International Airport. Road Transfers are quoted on request. Numerous car rental options are available from Johannesburg International and other major centres.
Marataba Gate GPS coordinates: S24° 20’ 44.1 E027° 29’ 42.0”

By Air: Charter flights can be arranged between Marakele and all major centres including Plettenberg Bay and Gorah Elephant Camp, facilitating a Hunter Hotels package holiday with ease.