In a time of terrible drought Queen Mateya journeyed south from Zimbabwe to seek out Modjadji the Rain Queen. It was a long journey and on the way she set up camp in Abjaterskop in the area now known as Madikwe, where she built a kraal made from the surrounding sand and stone. When Mateya found Modjadji, she presented her with an exquisite necklace in return for her help. Soon after Mateya’s departure, the heavens opened over her lands and her people were saved. But Mateya did not survive the journey home and never knew of the rains Modjadji sent. Mateya Safari Lodge pays homage to this great African queen whose bronze likeness can be seen within its walls.

The Lodge

Just three hours’ drive from Johannesburg, is Madikwe, one of South Africa’s largest game reserves and among its very best. Encompassing more than 75 000 hectares in the North West Province, Madikwe is home to an enormous variety of plants and vegetation and, hence, to an abundance of game. Mateya Safari Lodge, situated within this malaria-free reserve, is a world class yet intimate destination. A perfect fusion of landscape, wildlife, architecture and art, where guests over the age of 16 are welcome.

Art

In the centre of the lounge is Kenyan artist Robert Glen’s Close Shave, a life-size bronze of a lioness chasing an impala. The lodge also boasts a cozy library with over 3,000 books including several rare works of African literature dating back to the 19th Century.

A Culinary Adventure

Whether served outdoors or in the dining room, meals at Mateya are a superb yet relaxed affair presented by a team of friendly staff who are committed to ensuring your every need is met. Also on offer is a selection of the finest South African and French wines, housed in an 8000-bottle wine cellar. Breakfast on the main deck offers a magnificent view of the reserve.

Mateya Lodge

At dusk, watch the sun setting over the plains as a multihued sky fades slowly away into darkness, and more stars than you have ever seen shine out of an ink-black night sky. Experience the absolute stillness of the bush, a silence broken only by the throaty sound of animals on the hunt, or quenching their thirst at a nearby watering hole.

Central to the lodge is the opulently decorated bar and lounge, a fusion of style and comfort with a distinctly African ambiance.Inspired by a wide range of cultures from across the continent, the decor is a minutely detailed visual feast.

With over 66 large mammal species, including the Super Seven – buffalo, elephant, lion, leopard, cheetah, rhino, wild dog and around 350 resident and migrant bird species, this is a landscape ideal for game viewing.

Arriving at Mateya

Built from materials found in Madikwe, Mateya Safari Lodge rises out of the rocky outcrop of the Gabbro hills in the North West Province of South Africa bordering on Botswana. The high elevation of the lodge provides visitors with an uninterrupted view of the surrounding terrain. It is situated in the Madikwe Game Reserve which is just three hours’ drive from Johannesburg.

Game Drives & Walks

Experienced field guides and trackers provide a personalized view of the Super Seven. All game drives and walks are led by our experienced staff ensuring safety at all times. A maximum of 4 guests per game drive on specially designed game drive vehicles are conducted, and these vehicles are designed with photographer in mind