The Waterberg is a stunning area of natural beauty, a dramatic forested plateau dissected by ravines and waterfalls with panoramic views over the plains below. Home of many malaria-free game reserves.
The Waterberg region, only 3 hours drive from Johannesburg, is a stunning area of natural beauty. Ravines and waterfalls dissect this dramatic forested plateau. Which also offers panoramic views over the plains below. It is rich in wildlife, including species such as brown hyena not seen elsewehere. And of course a waterberg safari is malaria-free and so very popular with families.
The attraction of the Waterberg is the winning combination of big five game-viewing and beautiful landscapes. Plus the easy driving distance from Johannesburg.
However the Waterberg comprises a number of discrete wildlife areas:
As well as these are several other private safari lodges, many of which are focus on family-friendly safaris such as Ants Nest, Ants Hill and Kololo.
The different reserves, and thus Waterberg safari lodges, vary as to their game-viewing. Welgevonden, Marakele and Entabeni are Big Five game reserves with predator sightings on offer. However the game lodges around Vaalwater offer more plains game. Horseback safaris are a particular speciality at these lodges. They cater for both beginners and experienced riders.
The Lapalala Wilderness Reserve, with Lepogo and Moka Camps is a pristine wilderness reserve. The speciality here is walking safaris.
Centuries ago, the Waterberg was the hunting ground of the San (Bushman) people. And so one can still find fascinating Bushman paintings and archaeological sites all over the Waterberg mountains.
Kololo is one of the most affordable places to stay in the Welgevonden area. It is more relaxed than most of the private lodges that we normally use.
It is unusual for two reasons. Firstly their meal basis is Dinner, bed & breakfast and one activity. Which contrasts with the more normal full board and all game activities. These means that it can be more affordable. It is also ideal for an overnight stay especially if you may be arriving too late for an afternoon drive.
You can choose between a 3 hour drive into the Welgevonden. OR, if you stay 2 nights, you can enjoy a 6 hour drive with a picnic breakfast. This leaves at 6am and returns just prior to lunch.
Secondly, they have a choice of 2, 4 and 6 sleeper chalets so it's ideal for families. I wasnt crazy about the standard rooms as they are rather small. But the superior chalets are very nice and good for our clients looking for an affordable and flexible option. So great for multi-generational groups that want to be together and on budget.
This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.
Co-founder & Director
Keen to get some more useful info about planning a dream safari? Enter your name and email below
