Arrival
Arrival
Day 1
Arriving at Your Safari Destination
Arriving at Your Safari Destination
Marataba Mountain Lodge is set in an exclusive location secluded in the Waterberg and surrounded by Marakele National Park. Its design and operations have taken their cue from the earth, serving to merge the lodge with its environment. Marataba welcomes those in search of peace and space.
Only 5 private eco suites, welcoming a maximum of 10 guests at a time, open onto a wilderness world of their own as this area is renowned for its magnificent scenery and flourishing wildlife. The main lodge provides more social relaxation areas and a shared rock pool, which seems to skim off into the waterfall valley below.
All of the Big Five, including the rare and endangered black rhino, can be seen here, along with abundant birdlife, including the world’s largest colony of endangered Cape vultures. Enjoy the lodge's exclusive safaris with twice-daily game drives, after-breakfast bush walks, specialist Marataba Trails, and cruise into the late afternoon with a sundowner Miss Mara Water Safari.
- Main Destination:
- Marakele National Park (Waterberg Biosphere)
- Accommodation:
- Marataba Mountain Lodge
Wildlife in Marakele NP
- Meals & Drinks:
Day 2
Scaling the Heights to Your Safari Mountain Lodge
Scaling the Heights to Your Safari Mountain Lodge
Life-enriching experiences: Through our people and this place, we create experiences for guests to enrich their lives – whether they are looking for adventure, family time, romance, relaxation, or the chance to give back.
Game drives: In open safari vehicles, head out each day at sunrise and again in the late afternoon to find the reserve’s many fascinating animals, both diurnal and nocturnal. This is a truly personal experience as no more than 7 vehicles are in the concession at any one time. Because the animals are accustomed to them and do not see them as a threat, the field guides are able to take guests within close range of Africa’s most impressive species. The photographic opportunities are spectacular!
- Main Destination:
- Marakele National Park (Waterberg Biosphere)
- Accommodation:
- Marataba Mountain Lodge
- Meals & Drinks:
Day 3
Hiking to Your Safari Mountain Cabin
Hiking to Your Safari Mountain Cabin
Marataba Trails: A specialist walking experience for the seasoned hiker who is looking for a challenging trail in a unique part of the world. Marataba is blessed with a great diversity of ecosystems and landscapes. Its trails lead through different areas of the reserve – along riverine, gorge, mountain, and interesting routes – and provide a variety of experiences. Our expert trail guides will advise on suitable routes based on guests’ preferences and fitness levels.
Miss Mara Water Safari: Morning and sunset water safaris are operated on the Matlabas River, a scenic 30-minute drive from Safari Lodge and 45 minutes from Mountain Lodge. An experienced Marataba field guide conducts a cruise along the waterway, which provides plenty of game-viewing opportunities. Guests can expect to see hippos, crocodiles, abundant birdlife, and land animals (like elephants), coming to the water’s edge to drink and forage.
- Main Destination:
- Marakele National Park (Waterberg Biosphere)
- Accommodation:
- Marataba Mountain Lodge
- Meals & Drinks:
Day 4
Heading to the Mother City, Cape Town
Heading to the Mother City, Cape Town
As you reluctantly leave the untamed beauty of the safari behind, a new chapter of your journey unfolds. Transitioning from the wilderness to the vibrant cityscape of Cape Town, you embark on a 3-night exploration of South Africa's most iconic urban gem.
This transition promises a seamless blend of natural wonders and urban sophistication. Dive deep into Cape Town's rich history as you visit historical landmarks like Robben Island (where Nelson Mandela was once imprisoned) and explore the vibrant streets of Bo-Kaap with its colorful houses.
You'll ascend Table Mountain via a cable car to witness breathtaking panoramas of the city, sea, and mountains. The scenic drive along Chapman's Peak Drive offers awe-inspiring coastal views, while a visit to the Cape Peninsula and its resident penguins at Boulders Beach adds a touch of whimsy to your journey.
Cape Town's wine country also beckons, inviting you to savor the region's world-renowned wines.
- Main Destination:
- Cape Town (City)
- Accommodation:
- Cape Cadogan Boutique Hotel
- Meals & Drinks:
Day 5
Settling in for Your second Cape Town Evening
Settling in for Your second Cape Town Evening
The Community Tour gives a very personal and authentic look into life in the townships. The tour begins with a stop at the MCT-supported Injongo Educare Crèche in Mfuleni where guests can help to make or serve the children breakfast, read, play ball, and have singalongs with them. This is followed by a short walk down the road to where the crèche began at the home of inspirational founder, Mavis Ngcongolo, who will be there to greet the group.
We then move on to the township of Khayelitsha where guests can see Cape Town’s biggest settlement from Lookout Hill. The tour’s last stop is Langa (meaning "sun"), arguably Cape Town’s most vibrant and progressive settlement. Here, guests visit the Langa Heritage Museum in The Old Pass Court building, the Guga Sthebe Arts & Culture Centre for local empowerment, and the Langa Quarter where the Ikhaya Le Langa project is furthering social enterprise and creating a tourism hotspot.
Please note that additional costs are applicable.
- Main Destination:
- Cape Town (City)
- Accommodation:
- Cape Cadogan Boutique Hotel
- Meals & Drinks:
Day 6
Commencing Your Cape Town Sojourn with a Restful Night
Commencing Your Cape Town Sojourn with a Restful Night
Your last night in Cape Town is a bittersweet symphony of memories and farewells. As the sun dips below the horizon, casting a golden glow on the city's iconic Table Mountain, you head out to find that perfect piece of memorabilia.
Strolling through the lively streets, you're met with a kaleidoscope of sounds and colors, each shop and market stall beckoning you with its treasures. The air is filled with the enticing aroma of street food, and the lively chatter of fellow travelers and locals creates an atmosphere of vibrant camaraderie.
With each step, you reminisce about the days spent exploring Cape Town's rich history, vibrant neighborhoods, and breathtaking landscapes. You recall the mesmerizing views from the top of Table Mountain, the penguins at Boulders Beach, and the taste of South African wines in Stellenbosch.
- Main Destination:
- Cape Town (City)
- Accommodation:
- Cape Cadogan Boutique Hotel
- Meals & Drinks:
Day 7
Heading Home After a Memorable Stay in Cape Town
Heading Home After a Memorable Stay in Cape Town
As you bid farewell to the captivating beauty of Cape Town, a sense of nostalgia accompanies you on the journey to the airport. The iconic Table Mountain looms in the rearview mirror, a silent sentinel bidding adieu. The colorful streets of Bo-Kaap, the dynamic V&A Waterfront, and the lush wineries of Stellenbosch become cherished memories.
The flight home is a mix of contentment and yearning, as you leaf through your photos and recount the adventures. You mentally revisit the imposing cliffs of Chapman's Peak, the penguins of Boulders Beach, and the taste of South African wines.
Arriving at your doorstep, you carry with you not just the physical items but also a heart filled with gratitude for the moments lived, the sights seen, and the flavors savored. Cape Town has left its mark, and its memory will forever be a cherished part of your adventures.
- Main Destination:
- No major destination visited
- Accommodation:
- No accommodation (End of tour)
- Meals & Drinks:
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