At the foot of the Waterberg Mountains in the north-eastern corner of South Africa pure luxury awaits in the form of Marataba - malaria-free ‘Big 5’ game viewing, stunning scenery and ancient history on the site of one of Africa’s oldest trade routes.

Marataba at the foot of the Waterberg Mountains is on the ancient trade route through southern Africa, from the mighty tower of Great Zimbabwe, across the Limpopo River. The first luxurious game lodge to be built here is designed to blend into the environment - constructed of indigenous stone, sand and soil with water flowing around it and vast vistas through glass walls. Inspired by the discovery of ancient ruins, Marataba embraces both the contemporary and primitive.

Within a dramatic landscape encompassing vast plains, dense bushveld, winding rivers, deep gorges and majestic mountains, Marataba is an exclusive fifty-seven thousand acre private concession in the heart of Limpopo’s Marakele National Park home to Africa’s ‘Big Five’ and a multitude of other species including rare antelope such as roan, sable and mountain reedbuck. This malaria-free wilderness is also home to the world’s largest breeding colony of the endangered Cape Vulture and birdlife within the park is prolific with more than four hundred species having been recorded.

Evocative of ancient Africa, stone-masonry characterises the main lodge with huge openings of glass taking full advantage of the spectacular panoramic scenery. Twelve luxurious suites with canvas roofs over stone have private decks and outdoor as well as indoor bathrooms.

Guests can enjoy the view from the bar or simply relax in one of the lodge’s sumptuous lounges with a book from the library, housed within the stone tower which offers a birds-eye view of the breathtaking surroundings. Gourmet cuisine with fresh African flavours is served either in the elegant dining room, on the veranda or under the glorious African sky in the boma and as temperatures rise in Limpopo, guests can cool off in the crystal clear pool.

There are wonderful game drives and walks or a fascinating visit to Marakele’s Endangered Species Project for a day doing something a little different. Then, of course, it is time for cocktail hour as the sun sets spectacularly over this stunning scenery and the chef amazes guests yet again with his work.