In the wild and sprawling Marataba Contractual National Park, a private sector of the Marakele National Park, conservation is king. Spread out under a leafy canopy of fever trees, it’s a small, exclusive-use camp with only four bright and beautiful suites and a main area overlooking the tranquil waters of the Matlabas. This is a family nature retreat where you set your own safari agenda, spend leisurely afternoons observing wildlife along the riverbank, and enjoy sundowners and memorable alfresco dinners.
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The 4 suites at Marataba Residence are the epitome of understated yet stylish safari elegance. Located on the edge of the river, there are three rooms on one side of the main area and one, slightly more private, on the other. Differences end here, however, and all are light, bright and airy, with large four-posters positioned to look out over the water and assorted wildlife, and open-plan en-suite bathrooms with twin vanities and splashy indoor and outdoor showers (but with separate loos). The piece de resistance is a roll-top, window-facing bathtub, to aid both aching limbs and utter relaxation. All have outdoor verandas too, for that all-important morning coffee.
The chance to live and breathe real-life conservation and what it takes to run a private national park, all in such beautiful surroundings.
Pack your walking boots (and some snacks) and join the team for a day’s expedition to the gorge, descending ancient cliffs, swimming in crystal-clear pools and revelling in the incredible landscape.
Game densities aren't quite on Kruger or Sabi Sand levels, but the trade-off is solitude, spectacular scenery and sightings you won't have to share with a convoy. Worth it, we'd say...
Marataba Residence is owned by the MORE family collection which are Committed to regenerative tourism. They prioritises sustainability to safeguard the environment and communities for future generations. Their ethos revolves around living and working sustainably, recognising that our actions impact all life on Earth. MORE believes in fostering harmony between humans, plants, and animals for the well-being of present and future generations. For MORE, sustainability is ensuring the continuity of life on our planet.
Start with a recommended trip or create one from scratch
Marataba Residence can be booked with Timbuktu as part of a tailor-made South Africa trip, rather than as a standalone room reservation. Start online, customising one of our recommended South Africa trips featuring Marataba Residence or get advice and suggestions from one of our South Africa specialists who will design the trip around your dates, check availability and handle every booking for you.
Stays at Marataba Residence start from around $1.1K, or US$1.1K, per person per night as part of a tailor-made trip. The exact price depends on your travel dates, room type and the shape of the rest of your itinerary. A Timbuktu travel specialist can give you an accurate quote for your dates.
Search for the Big Five and simply soak up the vast, peaceful and incredibly beautiful landscape.
