There is magic in the air when you enter your home from home in the bush, Makanyi Lodge. It is not only the astonishing setting or the wondrous wildlife, it is also the unwavering passion and dedication that everyone involved in all aspects of the lodge share with those who join us. Makanyi is an exceptional way of life that has held the same family and core team enthralled and empowered for the past 7 years, since launch.

As privileged custodians of this inspiring land, we are thrilled to share our knowledge and constant sense of wonder with you and are dedicated to creating the most memorable bespoke guest experience possible whilst respecting our natural environment and its incredible inhabitants. A stay at family owned Makanyi begins and ends with our guest’s happiness and, to this end, authenticity, attention to detail and total flexibility are paramount to every stay with us.

Located on the western edge of the Kruger National Park, an area that spans over 2.4 million hectares, the Timbavati Private Nature Reserve is incomparable in being easily accessible from main air and road access routes and yet still wild and unspoilt with fewer lodges and private homes than can be counted on one hand. This unique situation allows our guests the ultimate luxury of exploring this arresting habitat uninhibited by other tourist vehicles and in their own time – a rare and authentic safari experience.

We want you to love this place as much as we do, to take it to your heart and embrace a fuller understanding of nature and a deeper respect for its inhabitants, for we share their home. Our greatest achievement is for you to leave us with not only an amazing photo album of all your wonderful sightings but also a deeper resonance in your heart that will stay with you forever.

Throughout your stay, your comfort and pleasure are our priority which is why we strive to ensure that every detail is as nearly perfect as we can work it both indoors and out. In every aspect of your stay, from the comfortable elegant decor to the scrumptious meals and beverages to your personalised game drives, here at Makanyi, care, quality and service are our daily mantras.

Every one of our seven suites overlooks the awe-inspiring dam and comes with an extra-large super comfy bed, a calm-inducing sitting area with a warming gas fire for cooler evenings, a gorgeous bathroom with a spacious shower and separate bathtub and a private deck with loungers and outdoor shower. Every room is also complete with Premium Healing Earth amenities, complimentary Wi-Fi, telephone, hair dryer, safe, mini bar, a Nespresso coffee machine and tea-making facilities.

Two of our seven rooms are luxury pool suites, located furthest from the main lodge these offer more privacy as well as a wonderful private plunge pool on the deck – ideal for a romantic soak with a glass of champagne under a blanket of stars.

* Please refer to the Events and Packages section to read about our wedding, honeymoon or other packages as well as exclusive hire of the Lodge.

– Big 5
– Game Drives
– Bush Walks
– SPA
– Photographic Safaris