The word “Makumu” in the Xitsonga language means an abstract description of a wide open area, a clear view across distant horizons, or limitless views. Visitors are revitalised by the ancient spirit of the African bush as a result of the lodge’s beautiful views and setting, which together create a profoundly moving sense of space and place.

In the midst of this immense wilderness, which is characterised by the drought conditions, unpredictability, and attraction of the African bushveld, is the tiny oasis that is Makumu Private Game Lodge. A maximum of twelve guests can stay in six luxurious and exquisitely furnished suites, which provide an exceptional blend of luxury, style, and solitude.

For a cool refreshing swim to escape the hot African sun, the pool at Makumu is ideal. Built as a feature to blend in with the surrounding bushveld, it is perfect for the warm lazy days of summer to cool off and watch various wildlife at the watering hole with a similar idea.

Their unique floating boma is an iconic Makumu fingerprint. Set high above the leopard river and the plains beyond, it is a stunning location for candlelit dinners, stargazing and warm campfire story-swapping.

Suites

With only 6 suites guests are guaranteed to have a luxurious and intimate safari experience.

The expansive King Suite boasts a walk-in closet as well as en-suite bathroom, with both a shower and a perfectly positioned ‘tub with a view’. Their King Suites have fixed king beds and do not have the option of twin beds. This suite also has a wooden deck offering a hammock, perfect for those lazy afternoons.

The spacious Impi Suite features a sitting area and an en-suite bathroom with a shower. The wooden deck offers stunning views of the bushveld.

Dining

The kitchen is undoubtedly the heart of the home and at Makumu the kitchen is exactly that! A warm and friendly gathering place, their open style invites guests in for a chance to peek in a pot and savour the pre-dinner fragrances while choosing a fabulous wine from our extensive list to compliment the upcoming meal.
Some of the chef’s favourites include Ostrich fillet with berry and red wine reduction, venison potjie and for the sweeter of tooth, white and dark chocolate mousse with chocolate crumb and chilli orange syrup – to mention but a tantalising few! The greatest reward for any chef is the delight and contentment on the faces of those they serve!


Safari

Conducted twice daily or as you prefer, in open Land Rovers with an armed ranger and a tracker, normally conducted early morning and late afternoon to search for the more elusive and nocturnal animals by spotlight.

The other option is you can arrange to take a bush walk. As you walk through Africa, you feel its pulse through your boot. You are an animal among animals, fearful of the dark corners and the unexpected stillness in the air. The Tree Where Man Was Born by Peter Matthiessen

Experience the ultimate feeling of being at one with the African bushveld by going on foot with our knowledgeable guides and seeing everything around you, from antelope to elephant. The sensation of tracking can include noticing a brand-new footprint in the sand, a distant sound of a limb cracking, moist mud rubbing against a tree, the presence of birds, or an abrupt stillness in the air. The search for cues, sounds, or smells that might suggest an animal is nearby heightens the senses.