MARATABA, MARAKELE NATIONAL PARK, SOUTH AFRICA – The sun rises on the Waterberg Mountains, signalling the beginning of a new day for the fauna of the region. The leopards stretch and pad off in search of prey, the kudu shake their magnificent spiral-horned heads, the Cape vultures swoop from their overnight perches into the air… but what’s that? Among the hustle and bustle of early morning activity, eight hikers have emerged from a luxury camp tucked neatly into the mountain landscape. Where are they going? And why?
Marataba Trails Lodge
An Eco-Friendly Destination for the Seasoned Hiker
The Marataba Trails experience has at its heart a firmly-held belief in the healing power of nature. A self-described “digital detox,” the camp features no cell phone reception (though Wi-Fi is available if necessary) and is fully powered by solar energy. The effortless architecture has been designed to add to, not take away from, the majesty of its natural surroundings. With five luxury eco-suites that together can accommodate a maximum of eight guests at a time, the camp ensures peaceful days and peaceful nights. And most importantly, the guided treks along the trails of the Waterberg Mountains give each guest the opportunity to reconnect with the simple yet wild beauty of the natural world, while offering spectacular vistas and game sightings unique to Marakele National Park South Africa.
Hiking in Marataba
The trails around Marataba Trails Lodge are certainly rigorous, but the sightings they afford are simply fabulous. The Gorge Trails take explorers down to the gorges of the Waterberg Mountains, untouched due to being mostly accessible only by foot. The Riverine Trails follow the course of the Matlabas River, and walkers may encounter all kinds of animals from antelopes to hippos at the bigger waterholes. The Mountain Trails take hikers along winding, sloping paths, with beautiful views at every turn. And the Special Interest Trails take history buffs to see the remains of ancient, iron-age settlements: cave paintings, ruins, and more.
Planning Your Visit to Marataba, Marakele National Park, South Africa
Marakele National Park, home to Marataba Trails Lodge and Marataba Safari Lodge, is a year-round destination, and only a few hours’ drive from Johannesburg. If you are interested in designing your own vacation to Marataba Trails Lodge, please do not hesitate to contact us with your enquiry!
Please note that Marataba Trails Lodge has a strict age restriction for guests: children under the age of 16 are not allowed.
Thanks to MORE Luxury Hotels & Lodges for the images and videos.
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