Escape to the Waterberg Wilderness: An Exclusive Big Five Getaway
Experience a thrilling 2-day safari in the malaria-free Entabeni Safari Reserve. Marvel at the dramatic Waterberg crags, look for the Big Five across two distinct ecosystems, and enjoy luxury bush accommodation just less than a three-hour drive from Johannesburg.
Embark on a quick but incredibly diverse wilderness escape to the world-renowned Entabeni Safari Reserve, situated within the UNESCO Waterberg Biosphere. Famously known as the “Mountain of the Gods,” Entabeni offers a unique topography where soaring sandstone cliffs separate a high-altitude plateau from a low-lying wetlands savanna. This 2-day safari maximizes your time in the bush, giving you the chance to spot lions, elephants, rhinos, leopards, and buffaloes navigating spectacular escarpments and hidden valley floors.
Highlights
- Two Safaris in One: Explore both the Upper Plateau and Lower Escarpment ecosystems.
- Big Five Tracking: Expert rangers guide you through prime viewing territories.
- Malaria-Free Zone: Enjoy peace of mind in a safe, pristine eco-environment.
- Dramatic Scenery: Witness the breathtaking red sandstone monoliths towering over the plains.
Why Choose This Tour?
If you are short on time but refuse to compromise on scenery or wildlife, this package is unmatched. It cuts out the long transit times of other reserves while offering an intimate, exclusive alternative to crowded public parks.
Where and When
- Where: Entabeni Safari Reserve, Waterberg Region, Limpopo Province, South Africa.
- When: Running year-round. The dry winter months (May to September) offer optimal wildlife viewing, while the summer months (October to April) bring lush green landscapes and vibrant birdlife.
Sustainability & Ethics
We operate with a deep commitment to the preservation of the Waterberg Biosphere. A portion of every booking goes directly toward Entabeni’s active anti-poaching units and local community employment initiatives. We enforce strict low-impact tracking rules to respect the natural behavior of the resident wildlife.
Itinerary Day by Day
- Day 1: Arrival & Sunset Escarpment Drive: Johannesburg to Entabeni.
Depart early from Johannesburg or Pretoria for a scenic drive north. Arrive at the lodge in time for a warm welcome and a delicious lunch. In the afternoon, board an open 4×4 vehicle for your first thrilling game drive, searching for predators as dusk settles over the mountain cliffs. Return for an authentic boma dinner under the stars. - Day 2: Sunrise Safari & Return Journey: Entabeni to Johannesburg.
Wake up early for freshly brewed coffee before setting out on a morning game drive. The early hours are prime time for spotting active lions and leopards returning from a hunt. Enjoy a hearty breakfast back at the lodge, take a final look at the spectacular valley views, and check out for your transfer back home.
Pricing
- Per Person Sharing: from R19,500
- Single Supplement: from R 21,000
- Includes: Luxury accommodation, all meals, two guided game drives, and reserve conservation fees.
Payment Installment Options
Secure your adventure with flexible payment plans. Pay a 20% deposit today to lock in your dates, with the remaining balance payable in equal monthly installments up to 30 days before your departure.
Live Availability
Live Availability Prompt: Want to see which lodges have space for your preferred weekend? Type “Check availability for [Your Dates]” below to instantly view open chalets.
Suggested Equipment
- Binoculars: High-quality Nikon Prostaff Binoculars for spotting wildlife across the valley floors.
- Clothing: A lightweight, windproof jacket like the Columbia Front-Zip Fleece for chilly early morning drives.
- Camera Gear: A versatile zoom lens or a SanDisk Extreme Memory Card to capture high-speed predator movement.
To Do and Not To Do
- DO bring layers; the temperature drops quickly on the upper plateau once the sun goes down.
- DO keep your camera fully charged for the dramatic sunset over the lake.
- NOT TO DO never stand up or wave your arms while inside the open safari vehicle.
- NOT TO DO do not discard litter or leave plastic behind in the reserve.
Summary
An unforgettable, action-packed 2-day getaway tailored for travelers wanting a premium, malaria-free safari experience amid some of South Africa’s most breathtaking mountain landscapes.
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FAQ
Q: Is the reserve safe from malaria?
A: Yes, Entabeni is completely malaria-free, meaning no preventative medication is required for travelers.
Q: What wildlife am I most likely to see?
A: You have an excellent chance of seeing elephant, rhino, buffalo, zebra, wildebeest, and various antelope. Lions and leopards are regularly tracked by our experienced rangers
Q: Are children allowed on the game drives?
A: Children over the age of 6 are generally welcome on standard game drives, while younger children can be accommodated via private vehicle bookings or specialized bush walks depending on lodge policies.
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Reviews are closed.
Benita Croeze
4 months agoStunning views and saw so many animals in one day (lions even walked around our truck). A very enthusiastic guide with interesting stories! A delicious lunch too.
Vivien Kaufmann
7 months agoBeautiful lodge, fantastic reserve, and a guide who had tons of great information about the animals we saw! A large herd of impala lay right outside our tent at night! Staff, accommodation, food – everything was impeccable!
Bart Spaltman
10 months agoBeautiful location against the Waterberg mountain range. Fantastic views. Saw lions, elephants, cheetahs, and rhinos, and lots of other wildlife. Good game drive and delicious food!
Marta Dal Cin
a year agoA beautiful reserve where you can see the Big Five! About 3.5 hours north of Johannesburg by car.
Maureen Griffin
a year agoStunningly beautiful. Had an amazing experience here.