Makweti Safari Lodge, Welgevonden Game Reserve
Welgevonden Private Game Reserve covers 38 000 ha of malaria free, pristine bushveld, watered by three major rivers which flow serenely through the awesome landscape flanked by steep hills and open plains. Vegetation - silver and fawn, gray-green and gold - all contrast sharply with the rust red soil of the terrain.
The reserve contains 16 species of antelope, the largest private collection of white rhino in the world, lion, elephant, buffalo, cheetah, the rare brown hyena, leopard and many more. For bird lovers Welgevonden has in excess of 254 species. There is also an amazing diversity of vegetation, from proteas to fig trees, thick forest vegetation, yielding to open grass plains.
Lodge and Accommodation
Makweti´s main lodge, built from natural rock with wooden teak decks overlooking the Makweti Gorge is a visual delight. In the distance the circular sweep of tree-encrusted mountains enhances the unique beauty of the Waterberg. Local antique art and furnishings reflect the cultural heritage of Africa. Artifacts, kelim rugs, sumptuous leather couches, hand beaded fabrics, all add colour to the rich wood tones, thatch and natural rock of the lodge. Great care has been taken in creating subtle luxury without overpowering the wild atmosphere of the environment.
Accommodation is provided for 12 guests, in secluded, thatched suites, each individually decorated, with indoor and outdoor showers, Victorian bathtubs, log fires for cool winter evenings, and private decks offering flawless views of the African bushveld. This is a place of peaceful enchantment where guests can relax in the plunge pool during the heat of the day or sit quietly at the waterhole in the camp at sunset watching the passing parade of animals.
Game Drives through this spectacular wilderness afford an abundance of wild life with sightings of White Rhino, Kudu, Blue Wildebeest, Giraffe, Eland, Zebra, Elephant, Lion, Buffalo and the elusive Leopard. Tsessebe and Red Hartbeest also appear, along with an abundance of birds. Night comes alive with the rare brown Hyena, Bushpig, Genet, Porcupine, Civet, and other nocturnal species.
Daily activities, such as morning game drives, walks, picnics, sundowner drives, night drives and even star gazing can be arranged. Safaris are conducted in open Land Rovers, custom built, to maximize comfort.