The Waterberg Biosphere: a hidden treasure of South African Heritage: In 2001 UNESCO designated the Waterberg area of South Africa as a recognised Biosphere Reserve. Welgevonden Private Game Reserve, Clifftops home, is located in the heart of this Biosphere, and adjoins Marakele National Park.

Clifftop Exclusive Safari Hideaway is privileged to contribute to the innovative conservation of the UNESCO Waterberg Biosphere through Welgevonden Private Game Reserve’s pioneering conservation model.

Through industry-leading, innovative conservation management, Welgevonden itself is home to more than 65 mammal species, including the famous Big Five, cheetah, brown hyena, caracal, aardwolf, and over 300 different bird species.

Located just two and a half hours away on road, or a mere 45-minute by flight, from Johannesburg, the UNESCO Waterberg Biosphere’s accessibility and malaria-free status make it one of the finest places to watch wildlife, soak in the wilderness, and experience a hidden gem of South African heritage.

The main lodge boasts an Infinity edge swimming pool with sweeping views, an outdoor dining deck, as well as an indoor restaurant. In the lounge you can find a magnificent fireplace.

The deck gives guests dramatic views over the edge of an ancient cliff, complete with hanging chairs and outdoor fireplace.

As South Africans around the country are waiting with bated breath for the next opportunity to travel, we encourage everyone to explore the hidden treasures of our exceptional country.

Suites

At Clifftop, they believe that tranquillity, seclusion, and peace of mind begin with design and the careful use of space. Each suite of the eight-room lodge is a luxurious cocoon that offers unrivalled views of the ruggedly beautiful Sterkstroom River gorge and Waterberg surroundings.

The careful use of natural elements and tones, including wood and stone, paired with the opulence of the well–appointed amenities, create an irresistible feeling of sanctuary. You never have to leave the serenity of your private suite to relax in breath-taking surroundings, re energise, and detox from everyday worries.
Enjoy a quiet read in the comfort of your own lounge area shielded from the outdoors by massive floor to ceiling glass French doors, or step outside onto your private timber deck complete with your very own plunge pool, an outdoor seating area, and splendid views of the Sterkstroom river gorge.

Dining

Every dish served at Clifftop Exclusive Safari Hideaway is a culinary masterpiece. Personalised dining experiences, brought to life by your personal butler, entail unforgettable moments that even the most discerning foodies will adore.

Enjoy a hearty cold and hot breakfast at Clifftop’s restaurant deck overlooking the Sterkstroom river gorge; the roaring river below and happy chatter of birds accompanying a delicious starter of fruit, homemade granola, cheese and pastries, followed by the tastiest hot English breakfast or omelette.

You may be full but when that clock strikes one thirty, you’ll be scurrying back to devour a delectable lunch of rib-eye steak, lamb chops, Nicoise salad, or even sushi, to name but a few of the mouth-watering dishes served up in stunning surroundings.

A delicious dining experience at Clifftop is incomplete without our delectable desserts. Indulge in our famous crème caramel, strawberry sensation, or a myriad of tasty pastries that our patisserie has on offer.

After an evening’s safari and sundowners, you’ll be ushered to your private dining area, specially selected and decorated for you by your personal butler. Oxtail, lamb shank and venison are just some of the incredible dishes prepared by the talented chefs at Clifftop.

A ginger and lychee sorbet clears your palate before you tease your taste buds with cheesecake, apple crumble or a traditional South African malva pudding, among others. All washed down with some of South Africa’s tastiest, award-winning wines.
Then it’s off to the bar for an Amarula nightcap before retiring to the comfort of your Clifftop sanctuary in preparation for yet another gorgeous African day.

Safari

Cross through rivers and travel up the rugged hills as you explore the pristine UNESCO Waterberg Biosphere inside Welgevonden Private Game Reserve, accompanied by our experienced guiding team.
As a pioneering Private Game Reserve, Welgevonden is home to more than 65 mammal species, including the famous “Big Five”, cheetah, brown and spotted hyena, caracal, aardwolf, and over 300 different bird species.

Witness the extraordinary ability of elephants to teeter up the steep and rugged mountainside in search of food, soak-in a proudly South African sunset in the company of lions as they prepare to embark on their nighttime adventures, and spend quality time up close with white rhinos crossing the open plains or taking a relaxing mud bath.

Spot the mighty eland, revered by so many, the elusive leopard and the brash honey badger as they go about their daily bush business. Observe the wonders of the bush undetected; your expert guide helping to decipher the mysteries of the bush and its creatures.

Engage in the art of tracking in search of hyenas, cheetah, and more, spot a hippo pod hiding from the heat of the African sun, admire the cacophony of bird calls and plethora of rare bird sightings through the changing landscapes.