This luxurious and exclusive safari lodge is situated on private land within the magnificent 75,000 hectare malaria-free Madikwe Game Reserve - home to the Big 5 and a myriad of other animal and bird species. Makanyane, which lies hidden in lush riverside forest, offers unforgettable wildlife experiences, exquisite accommodation and cuisine as well as outstanding personal service.
Makanyane has earned an enviable and well-deserved reputation for friendly, personal service, outstanding cuisine and an excellent wine cellar. Unforgettable meals are created by combining European and African flavours, and using the freshest ingredients and the best local produce. Our delicious cuisine is complimented the superb South African wines from our award-winning wine list.
Located on the edge of a ravine, Makanyane's dramatic main lodge overlooks a stream-filled waterhole shaded by a dense canopy of trees. Enormous ancient Leadwood trees in the lounge and the dining room support the sweeping thatch roof. The spacious lounge area has two rock fireplaces and opens out onto a wide wooden deck hanging over the ravine and waterhole below. On this wooden deck is the well stocked bar with its sweeping roof. The gracious dining room also opens onto the vast deck area, perfect for enjoying a meal under the trees while watching game drink below.
Upstairs is the air-conditioned den with a viewing deck, the elevated position providing panoramic views of the grasslands. Sweeping plains roll out towards the horizon, surrounded by a breathtaking skyline.
Close to the main lodge is the boma, an open air dining area enclosed by bush, reeds and trees. The boma is the perfect place to enjoy dinner next to a blazing fire. Sit back and enjoy the view out over the Marico River, the stars blinking through the canopy of leaves above you.
Not far from the main lodge, an isolated viewing deck stands on the edge of the plains. In this tranquil, tree shaded place, you can enjoy a quiet drink, while watching elephants stride through herds of waterbuck, zebra and impala grazing in these breathtaking grasslands. You may even see lion or cheetah moving through the grass, their vigilant stare searching for their next meal.
The lodge has a negative-edge swimming pool and a fully equipped, air-conditioned gym. Makanyane also has a beauty treatment facility and an on-site beauty therapist so that guests can be pampered by a range of indulgent treatments such as massage, aromatherapy, reflexology and facials.
The lodge offers a private conference facility for up to 16 delegates and a secluded den with 24 hour internet access, satellite TV and a video library.
Guests can experience the drama, mystery and beauty of Africa's wildlife, ancient legends and cultural heritage on game drives and bush walks, conducted by experienced, professional field guides.
Sanctuary Makanyane Safari Lodge caters for a maximum of sixteen guests and thus ensures personal attention and exclusivity for each guest. The lodge is designed to blend flawlessly with the natural environment to provide guests with a unique bush experience.
Another unique aspect to Makanyane is the sleep-out hide. Hidden deep in the bush on the lodge's private ground is a raised hide and a sleeping deck. Here guests are given the unique opportunity to spend the night under the African sky, surrounded by the African bush. The hide overlooks a waterhole and guests can use the spotlights provided to watch game coming to drink throughout the night.
Each luxurious suite has spectacular glass-walled bedrooms and offers uninterrupted views of the surrounding forest and the Marico River. Each suite has an en-suite bathroom, with a free-standing bath and both indoor and outdoor showers. Folding doors can be used to open the entire front of the bathroom to the sights and the sounds of the bush.
Each suite features a lounge, a private viewing deck and a sun deck with a spectacular view over the river. The suites have fireplaces, overhead fans and are fully air-conditioned. The rooms also have a telephone, hot beverage making facilities, mini safe and a bar fridge. Bathrobes, hairdryers, insect repellent, body and sun lotion, soap as well as shampoo and conditioner are all provided.
As the camp is unfenced, many game species are frequently seen from the comfort of the suite, as the animals move between the suites to drink at the river.
Rates vary depending on your lodge selection, the time of year and specials available.
Contact us for your own quote, individually calculated by our experienced travel specialists. Each quote is based on the season, specials available, lodging quality and various other factors.
A lodge may offer special or discounted rates from time to time. Special rates are not offered during peak periods, public holidays and long-weekends, and are subject to availability.
Makanyane Safari Lodge is the ideal venue for the ultimate intimate and romantic wedding.
Makanyane has air conditioned conference facilities for 16 people.
We regret that we are unable to accommodate children under 12 years unless the lodge is block booked by a group or a family. Extra beds cannot be provided in the suites.
Game drive times are flexible, with the drives going out at a time chosen by the guests. Spontaneous drives may also go out in response to animal activity near the lodge. If lions roar near the camp during dinner, expect an invitation from your ranger to go out into the night in search of them. Subject to availability, you may request the sole use of a game viewing vehicle and ranger.
Another hide overlooks a secluded waterhole where elephants and other animals come down to quench their thirst and wallow in the cool mud. Alternatively, lounge by the lodge's swimming pool, high above a stream-fed waterhole and wait for the animals and birds to come down to the water.
Driving time from Johannesburg is approximately 3.5 hours using the route via Sun City and 5 hours using the route via Rustenburg and Zeerust. Just a 45 minute flight on the daily scheduled service from O.R Tambo International, makes Makanyane Safari Lodge the ideal big 5, malaria-free luxury safari destination.
Following your visit, how would you rate your experience at Makanyane Safari Lodge?
unforgettable wildlife experiences ❈ exquisite accommodation & cuisine ❈ efficient reservations
