Makweti Safari Lodge is a small camp sleeping only 10 guests. In the 37,000 hectares Welgevonden Private Reserve in the Waterberg area of the Limpopo Province of South Africa. Join us for a malaria-free safari, an easy 3 hour drive from Johannesburg.
The main lodge is built from natural rock with teak decks overhanging the dramatic Makweti Gorge. The views are constantly changing their colors. The summer months bring new life to a natural waterfall that flanks the western side of the main lodge. Rare African art, stylish furnishings, rich woods, leather, and woven textures create a romantic retreat. A communal pool is also on offer.
Makweti’s Indaba Lounge offers views that extend across a natural flood plain and waterhole. This water source attracts animals of all sizes and stature who casually traverse through the camp. Giving guests the ultimate bushveld appeal that is both exciting and awe inspiring.
Makweti has no fences. So the Big Five, zebra, wildebeest, and a host of other iconic species wander freely through the Lodge’s surroundings.
Skip to Makweti Safari Lodge Rates or Special Offers
Makweti Safari Lodge Accommodation
Intimate and luxurious, Makweti Safari Lodge has five stone and thatch suites. They all have indoor and outdoor showers, Victorian bathtubs, log fires, mini bars, intercom, hairdryers, torches, and fans. With private decks with sweeping views of the bushveld. The luxurious suites are decorated with antique treasures and offer a respite from a busy world.
Of the 5 suites, 4 have private plunge pools and Salas where one can lounge. Or enjoy a private dinner during the summer months.
About Welgevonden
Welgevonden forms part of the greater, UNESCO declared Waterberg Biosphere Reserve. This biosphere is characterized by high plateau geology, magnificent cloudscapes, crystalline streams, and an immense diversity of wild species. (While perfect for indigenous plants and animals, the Waterberg’s soils are largely unsuitable for farming or forestry. Hence the region has remained unspoiled across the centuries.)
The evocative wilderness area offers an exclusive, intimate experience of the African bush. No private vehicles are permitted so a limited number of guests have access to the reserve at any one time. Which ensures minimal human impact and the ultimate wilderness experience. There is also ancient and delicate Bushman rock art on Welgevonden.
Welgevonden is home to over 50 different mammals, including the Big Five. These are elephant, rhinoceros, buffalo, lion, and leopard. There are rare and unusual species too, such as brown hyena, pangolin, aardwolf, and aardvark.
Topping that off is the incredible diversity of birdlife. With over 300 species.
Makweti Safari Lodge Activities
Delightful safari experiences at Makweti are assured by an astounding diversity of wild species, and by natural densities of wildlife. Plus of course by superbly qualified guides.
Makweti has two open safari vehicles and three dedicated, skillful guides for the ten guests. With a maximum of 6 guests on a vehicle. The diversity of wildlife in the reserve is simply beyond belief. Safaris are best explored through the eyes of professional guides whose wisdom extends beyond anything learnt in a book. Savor their stories of the wildlife and ecology. Infused with African folk wisdom and personal anecdotes.
Wining and Dining
Chefs busy themselves creating unforgettable culinary masterpieces. With locally sourced, seasonal fruits, vegetables and spices. Paired with the finest of South African wines.
Makweti Safari Lodge is a proud member of the “by invitation only” Chaîne des Rôtisseurs. This is the global hallmark of excellence in cuisine and culinary service. Makweti are constantly and consistently creating authentic, African inspired themes that resonate with flavor. Dinners are in the candlelit dining room. Or in the outdoor boma (a traditional outdoor enclosure) under the vast African night sky. Where the cosmos sets an idyllic backdrop for transcendent gastronomic events.
Getting to Makweti Safari Lodge
Self Drive:
Makweti Safari Lodge is just 260 kilometers from Johannesburg. The journey time is approximately 3 hours. The route is an easy drive, mostly on highways and good quality provincial roads. There are toll fees en route and these should be paid in cash.
Transfers:
We can transfer you by road to Welgevonden from OR Tambo (Johannesburg) International Airport. Or from anywhere in Johannesburg.
The lodge will meet you at the Welgevonden Main Gate at 1 pm for the transfer to the camp. The lodge will also transfer you to the gate on departure (midday). Transfers other than the scheduled transfer times will be charged a private transfer rate.
There is also a private airstrip in the Welgevonden Game Reserve.
Makweti Safari Lodge Accommodation Rates and Special Offers
Enjoy long stay and last minute rates all year. Check with us as there may be better rates at any time.
2024 Makweti Safari Lodge Rates | Pool suite | Suite (no pool) |
| Normal nightly rate | R8,500 | R7,950 |
| 4 night special rate | R7,450 | R6,900 |
| Last minute rate* | R5,500 | |
| Full Camp** (4 suites with pool and 1 suite without a pool) | R69,000 | |
2025 Makweti Safari Lodge Rates | Pool suite | Suite (no pool) |
| Normal nightly rate | R9,350 | R8,750 |
| 4 night special rate | R8,200 | R7,550 |
| Last minute rate* | R6,000 | |
| Full Camp** (4 suites with pool and 1 suite without a pool) | R75,000 | |
All are per person rates except the full camp rate**.
*Last minute rate:
Can be reserved no more than 10 days prior to the travel date.
Valid for travel throughout the year excluding 20th December – 5th January.
**Full camp Special:
10 x guests in the 5 suites as long as you stay a minimum of 3 nights! That’s a great deal for a family or friends’ safari getaway.
Makweti Safari Lodge Rates Include:
Accommodation in luxury suites,
All meals, teas, and coffee refreshments,
2 x safari activities per day including game drives in open vehicles with a Makweti guide,
Return scheduled transfers from Welgevonden Game Reserve Main Gate or the Welgevonden Airstrip to Makweti Safari Lodge.
Rates are subject to change without prior notice.
Excludes Beverages (alcoholic and non-alcoholic), cigars, and items of a personal nature, gratuities, conservation levy.
Children 12 years and older are welcome (full adult rate applies).
The single supplement is 50%.
Makweti Safari Lodge (Welgevonden)
Big 5 Safari at Makweti Safari Lodge in the malaria-free Welgevonden Game Reserve (3 hours from Johannesburg). Discounts on 4+ night stays
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Welgevonden Game Reserve South Africa
