The Marakele National Park in the heart of the Waterberg Mountains has, as its Tswana name suggests, become a “place of sanctuary” for an impressive variety of wildlife due to its location in the transitional zone between the dry western and moister eastern regions of South Africa. Contrasting majestic mountain landscapes, grass-clad hills and deep valleys characterise the park.

Rare yellowwood and cedar trees, five-metre-high cycads and tree ferns are some of the plant species found here. All the large game species from elephant and rhino to the big cats, as well as an amazing variety of birds including what’s probably the largest colony of endangered Cape vultures (more than 800 breeding pairs) in the world, have settled here.

A narrow tar road takes visitors up to the top of the Waterberg massif. Views and scenery are spectacular. One is also in the proximity of the vulture colony and these large birds will soar past at close quarters, and such encounters with these enormous birds will leave visitors breathless. Marakele has a high density of both rhino species and most visitors should see these animals, particularly the more gregarious and diurnal white rhinoceros. Kudu are in their element at Marakele and visitors should look out for the bulls with their magnificent spiral horns. The park also has an abundance of iron-age sites that will be made accessible to visitors in the future.

Most of the park’s roads are only accessible to 4x4 vehicles and in an effort to keep the park ecosystem as undisturbed as possible most facilities are located outside the park in the adjacent town of Thabazimbi. Activities available at the park include bird-watching and game-viewing, mountain pass trips up to an incredible view and close proximity to the vulture colony, morning bush walks and sunset drives (subject to the availability of qualified staff). Night drives and guided trails are being planned - please enquire on arrival.

R17 (SA citizens/residents), R35 (SADC nationals) R70 (Foreign adult nationals); R35 (foreign child national under 12 years) - proof of ID must be shown.
Central Reservations: t 012 428 9111; f 012 343 0905

Entrance: as above
Open: 7.30am–5pm, 1 May-31 Aug; 7.30am–6pm, - 1 Sept-30 April
t 014 777 1745 f 014 777 1866
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