National Geographic Traveller

Tucked away in the Klaserie Private Nature Reserve, Makumu Private Game Lodge occupies one of the less touristy areas of the Greater Kruger National Park. With no fencing between Klaserie and Kruger, wildlife roams freely in this area, and guests are treated to uninterrupted animal and bird sightings.

Far away from the crowds, Makumu offers an ideal way to escape urban life and experience Africa’s raw, untouched beauty. Featuring just three suites, Makumu is a small, luxury lodge offering an intimate and exclusive safari experience. Inspired by the Bushman, Ndebele and Zulu tribes of Africa, the suites are decorated with their own unique character. Each is large and spacious, to reflect the open air and space of the African bush, with a master bedroom and a smaller second bedroom. The en suite bathrooms have an indoor and outdoor shower, as well as a perfectly positioned ‘tub with a view’, while the wooden decks each boast a hammock perfect for those lazy afternoons.

Guests can embark on morning and evening safari game drives, with a guide and tracker team on hand to enhance the experience. The Klaserie Private Nature Reserve is a Big Five wildlife area and home to hundreds of different bird species. Whether on game drives, a guided bush walk or simply relaxing on the deck, Makumu offers endless opportunities to spot animals in their natural setting. Pearl-spotted owl, giraffe, hyena, crocodile, wild dog, zebra, warthog, elephant, hippo, vervet monkey and cheetah are among the frequent visitors — not forgetting a variety of antelope: kudu, impala, waterbuck and nyala. Back at the all-inclusive lodge, situated above the banks of the Dundee riverbed, the woodendecked boma offers the perfect spot for evening dining. Situated under the vast African skies, bathed in the gentle light of candles and lanterns, guests can listen to the far-off roar of the lion and the gentle rasping of the leopard while tucking into a delectable meal.

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