Makumu Private Game Lodge: An Exclusive Luxury Safari in Klaserie Nature Reserve

Looking to plan a one-in-a-lifetime luxury safari trip in South Africa’s remote Klaserie Nature Reserve? 

Makumu Private Game Lodge is not your typical overcrowded and commercialized Kruger lodge or big-name resort. Makumu is for those who want a laid-back safari experience in the heart of the wild with the luxurious comforts of five-star travel.

In the untouched bushlands of the Klaserie Private Nature Reserve (borders Kruger National Park), you’ll press your luck at checking off the ‘Big 5’—the world’s most dangerous land animals.

Whether you’re splurging on an adventurous African honeymoon (like we did), going all out for a monumental birthday, or checking off a bucket list experience, Makumu Private Luxury Game Reserve sets the scene for an unforgettable adventure in the vast grasslands with memories to last a lifetime. 

Keep reading to learn why Makumu wasn’t just a luxury stay for us, but a life-changing experience!

Exclusive, Intimate Experience (Max 12 Guests!)

They say sharing is caring—unless you want to slow down, escape the crowds, and relax. 

Privacy is what Makumu Private Game Lodge does best. With only 6 suites on site, they have a maximum capacity of 12 guests, ensuring you’ll receive personalized attention and peace and quiet around every corner. 

Each beautifully crafted suite is different from the next. Some have their own soaking tubs for romantic baths, while others have private decks—so explore the options online to see what you like best!

During our stay, we never had to fight for a pool lounger or hunt for a tranquil space to take in the views. 

The best part? No noisy safari traffic. Plus, with just two 4x4s, you won’t have to worry about dozens of jeeps lined up at the same animal sighting. I don’t know about you, but I didn’t want our encounters with wildlife to feel like we were at the zoo. 

Unfenced Camp: Wildlife On Your Doorstep

Sitting on over 60,000 hectares, the Klaserie is one of the largest privately owned nature reserves in South Africa. Unlike more developed reserves, it remains completely unfenced and shares borders with the iconic Kruger National Park, allowing wildlife to roam freely between the two areas.

That’s one of the things that made our stay at Makumu so unforgettable. One afternoon, I was reading by the pool when I heard a soft thump—I looked up to see a large baboon walking on the boardwalk railing. Another night, two elephants wandered right up to the lodge entrance. The sense of being surrounded by nature, without barriers, made the experience feel raw, immersive, and special.

Safety at Makumu: At night, you must use your flashlight and adhere to the boardwalks that connect your suite to the main lodge. 

All-Inclusive Luxury: No Surprise Costs (WITH Game Drives)

Believe it or not, not every “All-Inclusive” safari lodge includes game drives. That’s not the case with Makumu! Two daily game drives (1 in the morning & 1 in the evening) are included in the nightly rate. If you’re interested, you can also talk to one of the staff members about arranging an on-foot safari or bird watching excursion, with no additional charge. 

Unlimited drinks (tea, coffee, soft drinks, beer & wine), meals, and special requests are also part of the deal! 

Having all the available amenities included in the prices is stress-free luxury—all you have to do is show up and be pampered! 

Note: As disclosed on their website, a Klaserie Conservation Levy of 480 R per person, per night (ages 12+) is required. Payment will be requested separately after booking if using Booking.com.

Paid Add-ons 

If you’d like to enhance your stay, you can add on laundry services, upgrade to premier drinks, or pay for additional experiences like access to the photography bunker or massages. 

What Are the Game Drives at Makumu Like? 

At Makumu, there are two game drives daily, one early in the morning and one in the evening. The departure time will depend on the time of year.

The safari guides at Makumu know the land like the back of their hand. Their knowledge about the animals, plants, and weather was impressive—we could’ve listened to them talk for hours! 

Because the Klaserie Nature Reserve isn’t a mainstream park, you can experience wildlife sightings unhurriedly, there won’t be a line of vehicles you’ll have to share the experience with. 

During our 4-hour game drive sessions, our skillful trackers pieced together clues and patterns, hoping to be rewarded with animal sightings. 

The reality of the animal kingdom is that nothing is guaranteed, and sometimes it takes multiple game drives for certain animals to pop up (especially predators). The more nights you can stay, the better your odds are. Once you have a magical sighting, it’s a feeling that can’t be topped! 

Morning game drive breaks include a stop for coffee (best spiked with South Africa’s famous Amarula liquor), while the nightly sundowners feature regional snacks such as biltong and dried fruits, drinks, and watching a stunning African sunset.

Animal Sighting Highlight: On our last morning, we heard distant howls as we were getting ready. When we walked over to meet our group at the lodge, the guides were softly chatting about African Wild Dogs being nearby. They told us we should leave immediately if we wanted a chance to see them. We jumped into the vehicle, adrenaline rushing through our veins. Within minutes, we spotted a small pack and followed them to a nearby stream. We watched in awe, taking in their beautiful paint-like coats and bat-shaped ears. With fewer than 7,000 left in the wild, it felt like a rare and unforgettable privilege.

World-Class Dining, Service & Personalized Touches

In addition to exclusive game drives, you’ll also be in for fabulous meals and top-class hospitality. A unique way Makumua stays authentic to nature is their light-free policy. Once night falls, only the light from hundreds of candles will guide your way. 

Each day, brunch and dinner were prepared fresh by Makumu’s talented chefs. Before every game drive, we were treated to tasty snacks, and after returning, surprise cocktails were waiting to welcome us back.

Dinners are served to all guests at the outdoor boma. While sitting with other guests and staff might feel intimidating, there’s no pressure; join the conversation as much or as little as you’d like. The team dines alongside guests and shares incredible bush stories, so you’re welcome to relax, listen, and soak it all in.

Some of our favorite meals included the rich, flavorful oxtail and an unforgettable braai night (a traditional South African barbecue).

Note: Be sure to mention any dietary restrictions when booking.

In our experience, the hospitality team was exceptional. They seemed to anticipate every need and then some. From remembering our coffee and cocktail orders to surprising us with romantic turndown services, we were genuinely blown away. 

Memorable Highlight: After returning from our evening game drives, we’d kick back at the fire pit, drink in hand, looking up at the stars.

Stunning Views & Culture from Every Angle

Makumu from the Xitsonga language translates to “endless views,” and that’s exactly what you’ll find from every spot on the property. The lodge is a 20-year vision brought to life by the successful Swiss founder as a tribute to his love for Africa. 

As we walked around the lodge, noticing the African-inspired furniture and decor, we could tell how much thought went into every detail. Instagrammer or not, you’ll want to take pictures of everything! 

Its panoramic layout brings the outside in, and the wrap-around balconies face the pool and watering hole—places animals enjoy visiting. 

Our Honeymoon Experience at Makumu

In August of 2024, my husband and I spent 3 nights of our 3-week honeymoon at Makumu Private Game Lodge, and it was nothing short of magical! The Klaserie Nature Reserve is truly a world of its own. 

In this short timeframe, we saw 4 of the Big 5, plus the rare African Wild Dogs (don’t worry, we saw the 5th animal the next day at a different lodge). 

We stayed in the Impi Bushman Suite and loved its high thatched ceiling, generous floorspace, and private deck. The king-sized bed and crisp sheets were very comfortable. 

Each night, we come back to romantic touches left by the team. Who doesn’t get excited about flower petals, chocolate, and champagne? 

Even though there were outlets and strong wifi, we spent most of our downtime by the pool, socializing with the other guests, or recapping the day’s game drive. The limited time off our phones was a great way to start our marriage. 

So much happened in our 3 days that by the end, it felt like we were saying bye to family. 

There aren’t many places I dream about revisiting, but Makumu is one of them. It’s the kind of trip we’ll still be talking about on our 10th anniversary! 

Although a splurge, we both agree that booking Makumu was some of the best money we’ve ever spent! 

How to Get to Makumu Private Game Reserve

Nearest Airport: Hoedspruit Airport

After reaching Hoedspruit, getting to Makumu is easier than you might expect. You can book a private shuttle directly through the lodge, which I found to be the most affordable and stress-free option. Our driver was friendly, the ride was comfortable, and we felt totally safe the entire way.

Self-driving is also an option, though keep in mind some stretches of the road are unpaved and signage is minimal and confusing, so make sure your vehicle is equipped and you’re comfortable navigating in rural areas.

Click here for directions and travel info from Makumu

Considerations to Keep in Mind

• Candlelight: It helps to organize your room and pick out clothes for the next morning when there’s daylight
• If you want to leave a tip for the staff, bring South African Rand (ZAR)

Ready to Reserve Your Suite at Makumu Private Game Lodge?

Whether it’s your honeymoon, a bucket list trip, or simply time to treat yourself to a peaceful stay in the heart of the Klaserie.

The award-winning Makumu books up fast due to its intimate size (only six suites!), so if your dates are open, don’t wait. Trust me, you won’t regret investing in this once-in-a-lifetime experience.

You can view current rates, check availability, and book your stay here!

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