Nestled deep in the rugged beauty of the Waterberg Mountains that unfold between the distant horizons of Limpopo, where the giant Makweti tree dominates the landscape, the privately owned Welgevonden Game Reserve offers an exclusive safari experience and an enchanting glimpse of ancient Africa. A unique combination of age-old tradition like campfires under star-studded skies, modern luxury in the form of five-star lodging and a genuine regard for conservation and responsible tourism, make Makweti Safari Lodge the jewel of the Welgevonden portfolio.
The lodge has also earned itself a place in the Great Hotels of the World’s collection of premier destinations. If time spent replenishing body and soul is what you are searching for, the harmony of Makweti is the answer.
Accommodating just ten guests at a time, the five elegant thatch and stone suites of this lodge offer guests a secluded and romantic experience of the bush. The luxury of Makweti's private decks lies in its sweeping bushveld views and outdoor showers, its rooms made cozy with log fires and its intimately appointed bathrooms with showers and large Victorian bathtubs.
On warm evenings, guests can take in the amber hues of an African sunset while enjoying a glass of bubbly in the sparkling, private plunge pools. The ambiance of luxurious comfort in all suites is harmoniously crafted with local materials like natural stone, richly woven materials and teak, all lending to an atmosphere of sheer elegance.
Part of the international gastronomic society Chaine des Rotisseurs, the lodge prides itself on culinary excellence and service. The fine dining at Makweti is complimented by the range of select South African estate wines enjoyed at the lounge overlooking a waterhole, which is frequented by game.
Big game viewing also takes the form of exciting and informative open vehicle safaris, guided by experienced rangers who reveal the ecological wonder of the Waterberg Biosphere and its wildlife. Of course, relaxation is the foremost attraction at Makweti, and there’s much tranquility to be enjoyed in the hush of the African wilderness.
The wooded mountain landscape of the Waterberg is bordered by the Limpopo River, the Magalakwena River, and the Botswana border. Suturing the divergent east and west climates of South Africa, the diversity of this landscape is incredible and encompasses 35,000 hectares of rolling hills, red sandstone cliffs, perennial rivers that slice through wooded valleys, as well as open plains and savannas.
The Nylsvlei Wetlands, home to the largest number of water birds in South Africa with more than 400 species, is just one of the reasons the Waterberg was declared a Biosphere Reserve by UNESCO. Lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo and the largest population of White Rhino in a private reserve are the other five. Add to this the temperate climate and malaria-free location, and you’ve got a dream safari destination.
All beverages, cigars, conservation levy, gratuities, and items of a personal nature.
Children over 12 years are welcome at the lodge and will be charged the full adult rate.
Includes:
Accommodation in luxury suites, all meals, teas and coffee refreshments. Two safari activities per day, including game drives in open vehicles and walking safaris (on request) with a Makweti guide. Return scheduled transfers (13:00) from Welgevonden Game Reserve Main Gate. Rates are subject to change without prior notice.
Minimum stay of 4 nights
Includes:
Accommodation in luxury suites, all meals, teas and coffee refreshments. Two safari activities per day, including game drives in open vehicles and walking safaris (on request) with a Makweti guide. Return scheduled transfers (13:00) from Welgevonden Game Reserve Main Gate. Rates are subject to change without prior notice.
Includes:
Accommodation in luxury suites, all meals, teas and coffee refreshments. Two safari activities per day, including game drives in open vehicles and walking safaris (on request) with a Makweti guide. Return scheduled transfers (13:00) from Welgevonden Game Reserve Main Gate. Rates are subject to change without prior notice.
Includes:
Accommodation in luxury suites, all meals, teas and coffee refreshments. Two safari activities per day, including game drives in open vehicles and walking safaris (on request) with a Makweti guide. Return scheduled transfers (13:00) from Welgevonden Game Reserve Main Gate. Rates are subject to change without prior notice.
"We could not have had a better experience in South Africa at Makweti than anything we could have dreamed of. We arrived by plane to a champagne greeting, in the bush. The lodge is with out gates or fences, so one is immersed immediately in the wild of the reserve. At no time do you feel unsafe, yet you are very much living with the wildlife, albeit luxuriously. The private bungalows are exquisitely appointed, and each has its own porch to sit and take in the sounds and feel of the bush, accompanied by the view down the valley. Our guide Garry showed so much almost childlike enthusiasm in the tracking of the animals, and he seems to enjoy every moment in the bush so much it becomes infectious. All the staff, Test and his wife, Paula and the chefs, showed a very genuine love for what they do. The food is outstanding, and we saw and had close encounters with all of the big 5. With only 5 bungalows, each safari drive was almost a private experience, as only 10 people are there at a maximum. We had a day and a half all to ourselves, so it was our own private vacation house. What more could we ask for? How better to spend the time after a morning safari and a gourmet breakfast, than to sit in a comfy chair with a cold drink, three steps away from animals coming to the water hole. Zebra, elephants, warthogs, kudu, cliffspringers, baboons, and for lucky ones lions and leopard. Without doubt, a real safari experience, and a trip my lovely wife and I enjoyed immensely, and she did not even shop!"
- Adam
"My wife and I booked a romantic 3 night break at Makweti and had a great time. The room was comfortable, clean and well appointed, and the lodge is attractive and beautifully located. We were a little surprised that we found ourselves dining with our hosts, but this turned out to be a highlight, and the food is exceptional. I strongly recommend a 3 night stay. There is plenty to see in terms of animals, and fantastic birding if you enjoy that, and our guide Test was excellent."
- Mike
"We had a great time. Gary and Paula were exemplary hosts and Gary took endless amount of trouble with us on safari, explaining every thing we saw, answering our questions and listening to our travel experiences elsewhere. Meals were a great experience for us as we are not used to such cordon-bleu presentations but we enjoyed the experience. The safaris were great, game viewing, sun downers on the plains, high tea and abundance of animals, Lion, Rhino, Elephant, Cheetahs and many Antelope and Zebra. Great, The scenery was fabulous - especially Gear-box - pity int was in the dark. Thanks a lot"
- John
"We stayed at Makweti Safari Lodge in Sep 2015. Our expectations were truly exceeded. It was all one would expect from a five star. Lovely building; spotlessly clean; high-quality attentive staff and delicious food. So I cannot recommend that too highly. We are looking forward to our next visit there."
- Hilary
"There is something about Africa that pulls at your heartstrings and that is never more evident than after a stay at the majestic Makweti. Surrounded by nature, away from the hustle and bustle, but in luxurious accommodation. In the heat of the midday sun you can plop into a private plunge pool to cool off ahead of an evening game drive. As the bush comes alive, so begins an evening adventure filled with game and lead by the incredible knowledge of your guide, in my case a chap called Test. His knowledge of all aspects of the bush, was quite astounding and added to the trip. The team at the lodge is also fantastic. Food is outstanding and you will want for nothing during your stay. Like I said, a little piece of heaven!"
- Penn
"Excellent lodge With great staff. Food was of Michelin star Quality and The game drivers excellent due to The effort of The ranger(s). Did everything to find the game but also explained how the surge works. Super experience."
- Hans
"Stunning Lodge, First Class service, and incredible accommodations. Game Drives are very good. Meals and wine selection is very good. Great attention to your needs, friendly. I wouldn't hesitate to go back."
- Frank
"My husband and I recently visited for 3 nights. The cabins were elegant and beautiful with their own pools and fireplaces. The food was beyond belief with the chef who produced the most amazing meals and the staff set such lovely tables with an African theme. The guides were all level 3, incredibly informative and able to allow guests out of the vehicles as they have completed thorough emergency rifle training"
- Dixie
"We celebrated my husband's 40th Birthday at Makweti in early March 2015 and booked the entire lodge out for our group of 10. We had a truly excellent time - the service, accommodation, food, facilities and game drives were all wonderful. The team made such an effort to make it a special weekend for us, and organized a Bush Picnic and special birthday dinner by the Boma with a cake. We were incredibly lucky to see not only elephants, giraffes and rhinos but also lions, a leopard and a cheetah. Makweti is a really wonderful place and we would certainly recommend it."
- Donna
"We have been to many game lodges in and around South Africa - Makweti is the best by far! A truly beautiful lodge in a perfect setting, with friendly knowledgeable helpful wonderful staff, delicious cuisine, six star comforts and the very best, most exciting and exhilarating game viewing imaginable!"
- Allison
* rates may vary according to season
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