If you’re looking for a truly South African safari experience, visit Matingwe Lodge.
Matingwe Lodge is situated in the Waterberg, Limpopo, approximately 3 hours from Johannesburg. The closest town, Vaalwater, is an hour’s drive from Matingwe. The region is malaria-free. While you will not need a 4x4 to reach Matingwe, a high clearance vehicle is advised.
Matingwe can accommodate a maximum of 14 guests. The thatch-roofed lodge and free-standing rooms are surrounded by indigenous garden. Each room opens onto a semi-private deck, with a view of the bushveld and plains below.
The plush, 4-star graded rooms, decorated to suit the safari setting, accommodate couples and families. Rooms are furnished with either double or twin beds, and bath or shower. A sleeper couch can be converted for families. While there will be no need for screens as you take in the beauty of the great outdoors, a communal loft lounging space in the lodge is fitted with a TV.
Meals are served in the restaurant in the lodge. Enjoy a sunny breakfast in the lapa overlooking the bushveld and dine by candlelight as you settle in for dinner later in the day. Dining at Matingwe is most memorable, with carefully created, generous meals, served plated. The service is sincere.
The bar is fully stocked, and the temperature-controlled cellar holds some of the best wines South Arica has to offer. Outdoors, a large firepit provides the setting for long, lazy conversations and the customary South African braai, presented Matingwe-style.
In Summer, the rock pool and deck are popular with guests – sip on a cocktail while basking in the sun, a good book keeping you company. In Winter, find a cosy nook in the living area where a fire is always ablaze, a glass of fine wine in hand.
Bird life is plentiful, while Sable antelope, and other plains game, inhabit the grounds. Without predators on-site, it is quite safe to walk the hiking trails on the reserve.
Matingwe borders the larger Welgevonden Game Reserve, where the Big 5 roam the ultra-protected land. Guests are treated to guided Big 5 game drives in Welgevonden. Join an early morning or late afternoon drive, or both. You will not be disappointed by the sightings, or by the knowledge of the ranger. A pit stop on your drive includes refreshments, as well as an opportunity to admire the landscape.
Guided Big 5 Game Drives
- Star Gazing
- Hiking
- Birding
- Big 5 Game Drives
- Swimming Pool
The 4 free-standing chalets are furnished with either double or twin beds. Rooms are en-suite, with bath and/or shower. Request a sleeper couch or an interleading chalet for a family. Facilities include air conditioner, tea and coffee station, mini fridge, hairdryer and safety deposit box.
The free-standing family unit can sleep up to 5 guests. The open plan unit consists of a kitchenette, dining room and lounge with sleeper couch. The rooms, one with double bed and the other with twin beds, are both en-suite. Facilities include air conditioner, tea and coffee station, TV with selected DSTV channels, hairdryer and safety deposit box.
The suite is nestled inside the main lodge. The privacy it affords makes it ideal for special romantic getaways and honeymooners. The king size room is en-suite, with Victorian bath, shower and his and her vanities. Facilities include air conditioner, tea and coffee station, mini fridge, hairdryer and safety deposit box.
- If cancelling 7 days before arrival, forfeit 100% of the booking total.
- If cancelling 14 days before arrival, forfeit 100% of the deposit.
- If cancelling 21 days before arrival, forfeit 50% of the deposit.
- If cancelling 30 days before arrival, forfeit 25% of the deposit.
0-2 years: Free of charge
3-12 years: Child rates apply
13-17 years: Full adult sharing rate
