Travel Kuoni

 Makweti Safari Lodge 

Secluded safari living

A peaceful Big Five safari lodge hidden amongst the trees overlooking a peaceful river ravine.

Reached via a scenic 4x4 transfer through the Welgevonden Private Game Reserve, Makweti Safari Lodge is a secluded retreat where just five suites overlook the surrounding wilderness. Hidden amongst the trees and connected by gravel walkways, the lodge blends seamlessly into its natural surroundings, creating a true sense of escape. Days are spent exploring the reserve on expertly guided game drives in search of the Big Five, while quieter moments can be enjoyed beside the waterhole, from the privacy of your suite deck or with a glass of South African wine as the sun sets over the bush.

Why we love Makweti Safari Lodge

  • With only five suites and a maximum of 10 guests at one time, this is truly a personal safari experience. For larger groups, the entire lodge can be reserved for an exclusive-use safari experience

  • Hidden amongst the trees and reached via a swing bridge over the gorge, some suites feel worlds away from everyday life

  • The lodge's peaceful river setting, waterhole views and relaxed atmosphere make it as much about unwinding as it is about wildlife viewing

  • The journey to and from the lodge is a safari in itself, with every transfer through the reserve offering the chance to spot wildlife before you've even checked in

4.5 stars
Located in Welgevonden Private Game Reserve in the heart of South Africa's Waterberg region, Makweti Safari Lodge combines the thrill of a Big Five safari with a serene and secluded setting. Nestled amongst indigenous trees above the Makweti River, the lodge overlooks a frequently visited waterhole.
Approx. 3 hours' drive from Johannesburg’s OR Tambo International Airport to the reserve gate, followed by a 45-minute scheduled transfer to the lodge in a 4x4 safari vehicle (via game drive).
Boutique, Honeymoon, Safari
Holidays with a little extra 'wow'
No such thing as ‘just’ a holiday 
Why settle for standard? We’ve searched the globe for places that bring the wow to match your vibe.
Experts who walk the walk 
We’ll tap into our love for creating holiday magic, to give you the wow you’re looking for within your budget.
Protected by ATOL & ABTA
ATOL protection, ABTA membership and 24/7 support – enjoy every moment knowing you’re in safe hands

Facilities

  • Restaurants & bars
  • Board
  • Sustainability
  • Good to Know

Dining is a highlight of any stay at Makweti. African-inspired menus showcase locally sourced ingredients alongside some of South Africa's finest wines, with each meal thoughtfully prepared and beautifully presented. Dinner is often served in the elegant candlelit dining room, while on clear evenings you can dine beneath the stars in the traditional boma, gathered around a crackling fire and surrounded by the sounds of the bush.

What's Included

• Breakfast, lunch and dinner • Two daily game drives with a safari guide in open 4x4 vehicle • House beverages • Conservation fees • Scheduled transfers from Welgevonden Gate. Please note early/late arrivals at the gate will incur an additional transfer charge.

Located within the UNESCO-recognised Waterberg Biosphere, Welgevonden Private Game Reserve is committed to protecting the region's unique wildlife and habitats. All guests contribute through a daily park fee and conservation levy, which supports the maintenance of the reserve's roads, infrastructure and security, as well as vital wildlife management programmes. These contributions also help fund community initiatives, including biodiversity monitoring and environmental awareness projects, ensuring the benefits of conservation extend beyond the reserve itself.

This lodge welcomes guests over the age of 12.

Due to steps, rocky pathways and a swing bridge leading to some suites, the lodge may not be suitable for guests with reduced mobility.

Early mornings and evenings can be cool throughout the year, particularly during the winter months (June to August).

We recommend packing a warm jacket, scarf and a few extra layers to stay comfortable.

As with any safari, layering is key, as temperatures can change significantly throughout the day.

Guest reviews

{{tripAdvisor.tripAdvisorSummary.rating}}

Average Rating

Based on {{tripAdvisor.tripAdvisorSummary.num_reviews}} reviews

Excellent
 
{{tripAdvisor.tripAdvisorSummary.num_reviews_5}}
Very good
 
{{tripAdvisor.tripAdvisorSummary.num_reviews_4}}
Average
 
{{tripAdvisor.tripAdvisorSummary.num_reviews_3}}
Poor
 
{{tripAdvisor.tripAdvisorSummary.num_reviews_2}}
Terrible
 
{{tripAdvisor.tripAdvisorSummary.num_reviews_1}}

{{review.user_location}} {{review.date}}

These reviews are the subjective opinions of individual travellers and not of TripAdvisor LLC nor of its partners.




Award winning Kuoni

We’re the original pioneers of holiday magic. We’ve been wowing travellers and honeymooners for over 100 years. Driven by our passion for unforgettable holidays, we've earned over 200 awards and are proud to be a Which? Recommended provider.

2025 Conde Nast Traveller Readers  Choice Awards 2026 Feefo Platinum Trusted Service Award 2025 Which? Recommended Provider - Tailormade Holidays 2025 Which? Recommended Provider - Tailormade Holidays