Marakele - Welgevonden Game Reserve

Marakele is a hotel near Welgevonden Game Reserve.

Location
Welgevonden Game Reserve, North West & Central Bushveld, South Africa, Southern Africa
Coordinates
-24.312820, 27.862276
Activities
hotel

PlnrScore: 29/100

Wildlife Near This Lodge

1278 species observed within 20 km, 57 mammals, 152 birds.

  • White Rhinoceros (Mammalia, 46 observations)
  • Plains Zebra (Mammalia, 36 observations)
  • Blue-sided Sprite (Insecta, 33 observations)
  • Red-veined Dropwing (Insecta, 31 observations)
  • Lion (Mammalia, 30 observations)
  • Common Warthog (Mammalia, 29 observations)
  • White-masked Wisp (Insecta, 29 observations)
  • African Savanna Elephant (Mammalia, 26 observations)
  • Black-backed Jackal (Mammalia, 25 observations)
  • Hamon's Sprite (Insecta, 24 observations)

Best Time to Visit Marakele

The best months to visit Marakele are September, January, February, based on temperature, rainfall, weather conditions, and wildlife viewing opportunities.

Month-by-Month Safari Conditions

  • January: Great, temperature 21.6°C, rainfall 121.2mm, sunshine 11.6 hrs, humidity 66.4%
  • February: Great, temperature 21.41°C, rainfall 75.7mm, sunshine 11.5 hrs, humidity 67%
  • March: Great, temperature 20.7°C, rainfall 36.8mm, sunshine 11.1 hrs, humidity 61.7%
  • April: Great, temperature 18.27°C, rainfall 44.4mm, sunshine 10.4 hrs, humidity 59.9%
  • May: Great, temperature 16.14°C, rainfall 9.9mm, sunshine 10.3 hrs, humidity 51.5%
  • June: Great, temperature 13.34°C, rainfall 1.4mm, sunshine 10 hrs, humidity 47%
  • July: Great, temperature 13.27°C, rainfall 2.2mm, sunshine 10.4 hrs, humidity 42.4%
  • August: Great, temperature 16.24°C, rainfall 0.7mm, sunshine 10.8 hrs, humidity 41.2%
  • September: Great, temperature 20.06°C, rainfall 2.5mm, sunshine 11.5 hrs, humidity 39.1%
  • October: Great, temperature 21.52°C, rainfall 31.2mm, sunshine 11.2 hrs, humidity 44.9%
  • November: Great, temperature 21.98°C, rainfall 56.2mm, sunshine 11.4 hrs, humidity 56.2%
  • December: Great, temperature 21.78°C, rainfall 124.1mm, sunshine 11.1 hrs, humidity 65.9%

Frequently Asked Questions

How do guests staying at Marakele access game drives within Welgevonden Game Reserve?

Marakele, being a hotel near Welgevonden, typically arranges guided game drives into the reserve through accredited safari operators. Guests are usually transported to a designated gate or lodge within Welgevonden to begin their safari experience. This ensures seamless access to the reserve's exclusive wildlife viewing opportunities.

Can I expect to see wildlife directly from Marakele hotel, or is it primarily a base for Welgevonden safaris?

While Marakele offers a tranquil bushveld setting, significant wildlife viewing, especially of the Big Five, primarily occurs during game drives within the adjacent Welgevonden Game Reserve. The hotel itself provides a peaceful retreat, and you might spot smaller animals or birds around the property. Your main safari encounters will be within the reserve.

What is the best time of year to visit Marakele for optimal wildlife viewing in Welgevonden Game Reserve?

The dry winter months, from May to September, are generally considered the best time for wildlife viewing when staying at Marakele. During this period, vegetation is sparse, and animals congregate around water sources, making them easier to spot within Welgevonden. The cooler temperatures also make game drives more comfortable.

What is typically included in a stay at Marakele, especially concerning safari activities in Welgevonden?

A stay at Marakele generally includes accommodation and meals, with game drives into Welgevonden Game Reserve often offered as an optional extra or part of specific packages. It's advisable to confirm whether game drive costs, park fees, and transfers are included in your booking or if they need to be arranged separately. This allows guests to tailor their safari experience.

What are the typical travel logistics and safety considerations when planning a stay at Marakele near Welgevonden?

Marakele is located in a safe, rural area of South Africa, and standard travel precautions apply. Guests typically drive themselves or arrange transfers from Johannesburg to the hotel, which is a few hours' journey. When on game drives in Welgevonden, always follow your guide's instructions for your safety and the well-being of the wildlife.

Other Safari Lodges in Welgevonden Game Reserve

Parks in North West & Central Bushveld

Health & Travel Info

Health & vaccination info for South Africa

Travel advisory for South Africa