Makanyi Private Game Lodge is located in the Timbavati region of the Greater Kruger National Park. Timbavati is translated as, “The Place Where Something Sacred Came Down to Earth”, and Makanyi Lodge is certainly a heavenly place! Located in open, acacia woodlands and constructed of natural woods, thatch and stone, the lodge blends perfectly into the picturesque environs and has extensive views over a dam. It's one of very few commercial lodges in the area, and offers a truly wild yet personalised and private experience - and did we mention the fabulous Big Five game viewing?
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The main lodge has large, comfortable sofas and is the perfect spot to unwind in. It has a superbly situated deck with great views of the dam, where you can watch amazing wildlife scenes take place, enjoy the beauty of your surroundings, or socialise. There is a swimming pool with sun loungers, and a cosy loft which serves as a quiet reading area or TV lounge. The lodge also has a spa, gym and a curio shop.
There are seven luxury suites overlooking the magnificent dam. Each has an extra large bed, Nespresso coffee machine, a relaxing lounge area with fireplace, beautiful bathroom with spacious shower and separate bathtub, and a private deck with plenty of loungers. There are two special honeymoon suites too, which are located furthest from the main lodge and offer the most privacy - both come complete with a romantic four-poster and a private plunge pool on the deck.
There are thrilling game drives with experienced rangers, bush walks, and fishing in the dam in the company of curious hippos to look forward to at Makanyi. Added extras include star-gazing at the clear skies, spending a day with a professional wildlife photographer, and, for the creative, art safaris with a local artist. And there's more: Helicopter rides, whispering with elephants, and zip lining... There won't be a second to be bored!
The feeling of having the Timbavati to yourself. With no other lodges in this part of the reserve, your game drives are blissfully free of other vehicles – it's just you, your guide and whatever game decides to show up.
Book a photographic safari - there's a dedicated vehicle kitted out with bean bags and lens supports. The resident wildlife photographer will have you shooting like a pro by the end of the session.
Children under 14 aren't permitted unless you book the entire lodge on an exclusive-use basis, so consider a different option if you're travelling as a young family.
A collection of private reserves with exceptional wildlife viewing and a delicious selection of lodges.
