Looking for the perfect weekend bush getaway near Gauteng? Just over 3.5 hours from Johannesburg and Pretoria, Marakele National Park offers an incredible escape into the wild. Nestled in the heart of the Waterberg Mountains, this hidden gem in Limpopo combines dramatic landscapes, wildlife sightings, and peaceful sunsets.
Here’s how to spend a magical weekend in Marakele. You can also read our blog post on why you must visit this park.
Where is Marakele National Park?
Marakele National Park is located near Thabazimbi in Limpopo Province, South Africa. It’s the closest South African National Park to Gauteng, making it an ideal destination for a quick wilderness break.
- From Johannesburg: ± 4 hours (about 260 km)
- From Pretoria: ± 3.5 hours (approximately 243 km)
- Gate closing times: Check the SANParks website before your visit, as times change seasonally.
Leave work early on Friday and hit the road! Aim to arrive before sunset to settle in and experience the park’s unique beauty.
Top recommendations:
- Book a sunset guided game drive on arrival if you are early enough, a fantastic introduction to the park’s terrain and wildlife.
- Stay at the Bontle Rest Camp, ideally in a tented unit close to the main gate and reception.
- Alternative: Bring your camping gear and enjoy the excellent Bontle campsite.
- After your drive, enjoy a simple braai dinner under the stars.
Even when sightings are sparse, the guides offer rich insight into the area’s biodiversity and conservation efforts.
Day 2: Guided bush walk, scenic drives and Tlopi Tented Camp
Start your morning with a guided bush walk, one of the most memorable and immersive experiences the park offers. It’s affordable and safe, and you may even have exciting wildlife sightings on foot. The walk takes place in the section without the Big Five, so you don’t have to fear running into elephants or lions.
Highlights:
- Guided walks are affordable (confirm updated pricing on the SANParks website).
- After your walk, grab brunch or snacks in Thabazimbi before heading deeper into the park.
- For your second night, book a tent at Tlopi Tented Camp, perched on the edge of a tranquil dam.
On the way to Tlopi:
- Stop at the bird hide. If you are patient, you might spot nyala, waterbirds, or even elephants.
- Enjoy a long, scenic self-drive and soak up the mountain views and bushveld atmosphere.
End your day with a braai, a glass of wine, and a flaming sunset reflecting off the dam.
Day 3: Lenong Viewpoint and a picnic farewell
Wake early to catch the sunrise sounds of the bush, then drive up to the awe-inspiring Lenong Viewpoint.
Why it’s worth it:
- The viewpoint overlooks the park’s dramatic terrain and is home to one of the world’s largest Cape vulture colonies.
- Keep an eye out for klipspringers along the steep rocky slopes.
Before heading out, stop at the picnic site, often quiet and perfect for one last peaceful bush moment.
Snack with squirrels, birds, and maybe an impala or two for company, just don’t feed them.
Travel Tips for Marakele National Park
- Pack binoculars – birdlife is phenomenal.
- Cell reception is limited, which adds to the digital detox appeal.
- Bring your own food and braai supplies – there’s no restaurant in the park.
- Be patient – part of Marakele’s magic lies in quiet moments and natural beauty, not just sightings.
Whether it’s your first bush break or your tenth, a weekend in Marakele National Park leaves you feeling refreshed, grounded, and a little more connected to South Africa’s wild heart.
Read more about what makes Marakele so unique. We can stay wild together. Join the Never-ending Nature social tribe Facebook, Instagram and X for daily doses of wilderness, wonder, and wildlife oddities.
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