MARAKELE NATIONAL PARK
If you thought the Bushveld was flat and monotonous, wait until you see Marakele. Soaring above the acacia trees are some of the highest mountains in the Waterberg. Make sure to drive to Lenong Viewpoint on top of the mountain, for the tremendous view, and also to get a glimpse of the circling Cape vultures that nest nearby.
DO THIS: There is a two-hour morning or sunset drive every day. R315 per adult; R157 per child aged 2–11.
Daily conservation fee: R60 per adult; R30 per child aged 2–11; free with a Wild card.
ACCOMMODATION: Bontle rest camp: Camping (with power) from R325 p.n. for two people; R100 per extra adult; R50 per child aged 2–11 (six people per stand). Safari tents from R1470 p.n. for two people; R290 per extra adult; R145 per child aged 2–11.
Tlopi Tented Camp: Safari tents from R1705 p.n. for two people; R145 per child aged 2–11. Motswere guest cottage (sleeps eight) from R2935 p.n. for four people; R530 per extra adult; R265 per child aged 2–11.
Where? About 12km north-east of Thabazimbi.
Contact: ✆ 014 777 6928
MAPUNGUBWE NATIONAL PARK
South Africa, Botswana and Zimbabwe come together in this park against a backdrop of sandstone koppies and baobabs. Mapungubwe consists of an eastern and a western section separated by private farms; the confluence of the Shashe and Limpopo rivers is in the eastern section. It’s part of the Greater Mapungubwe Transfrontier Conservation Area and a UNESCO
