Marakele National Park

One of South Africa’s youngest national parks, Marakele (meaning ‘Place of Sanctuary’) is a stunningly picturesque park located in the Waterberg, an easy three hour drive from Johannesburg and Pretoria. Towards the beginning of the twentieth century, most of the game in the region had been decimated by hunters. Today, the focus has shifted to conservation and ecotourism. The wildlife species found in the park, which include the Big 5, reflect what used to roam this mountainous terrain. Of particular interest is the substantial Cape Vulture Colony (estimated at 800 pairs), which can be viewed from the top of Marakele’s accessible mountains. A rudimentary road network exists within the park, with the highlight being the extraordinary views from the top of the Waterberg Massif. For self-drive travellers, there are camping facilities and self-catering accommodation within the park. In addition, the Marataba Safari Company operates a luxury camp on a stunning concession within the park.

Why we like it

Stunning Big 5 reserve; Cape Vulture colony; Magnificent views; Variety of accommodation options for different budgets

Budget

Accomodation

Suitable for

Safari Activity

Bontle Camping Site, Marekele

The Marakele National Park in the heart of the Waterberg Mountains, as its Tswana name suggests, has become a 'place of sanctuary' for an impressive variety of wildlife due to its location in the transitional zone between the dry western and moister eastern regions of South Africa. Bontle Camping Site is located at the foot of a winding path that…

Accomodation Type: Camping

Budget: Less than $150 p.p.p.d.

Marataba Safari Lodge

Set amongst thick acacia bushveld overlooking a waterhole, with a stream running through camp is the Marataba Safari Company’s exquisite luxury tented camp. Marataba is situated in a very productive (for game viewing) 23,000 hectare private concession within the Marakele National Park - one of the newer National Parks in South Africa. The main lodge boasts a brilliant architectural design…

Accomodation Type: Full Board

Budget: $300 - $500 p.p.p.d.

Tlopi Tented Camp, Marakele

The Tlopi Tented Camp in Marakele National Park is unfenced from the rest of the park, making your experience with nature an unsheltered, intimate one. The camp consists of ten luxury tents, each accommodating two people. The tents are fully furnished with kitchens, private bathrooms, electric fans, private verandas and barbecue facilities. One tent is wheelchair-friendly. There are fantastic bird-watching…

Accomodation Type: Self-catering

Budget: Less than $150 p.p.p.d.

Park / Reserve Size:	67 000 Ha
Reserve Type:	National Park
Big 5:	Yes
Specialist Specie:	White Rhino
Malaria Area:	No
Nearest Town:	Vaalwater

Big 5:	8
Mammals:	8
Birds:	7
Reptiles:	8
Trees:	7

Why we like it

Facts & Figures

Accommodation in Marakele National Park

Bontle Camping Site, Marekele

Marataba Safari Lodge

Tlopi Tented Camp, Marakele

Lookout for

Key Species

Wildlife Ratings