A Private Game Reserve
Like No Other

From luxurious bush lodges to intimate tented camps, we offer accommodation to suit all budgets and tastes – from couples looking for a romantic stay, family adventurers, wedding parties wanting a unique setting to celebrate their union, or retreat-seekers looking to unwind and get back in one with nature. Whatever your reason, you’ll be surrounded by the mythical baobabs, red sandstone ridges, and ancient stories that echo through the land.

Our team looks forward to helping make your stay special, whether you choose to get first-hand experience of conservation work through one of our animal tracking programs, walk in the footsteps of ancient tribes on a San rock art tour, or unwind and pamper yourself at the spa, there’s something for everyone at Mapesu.

Activities

Accommodation to suit every Adventure

Mapesu Private Game Reserve offers a variety of accommodations, from luxurious stays to classic wilderness experiences, ensuring a perfect fit for every traveler.

Frequently Asked Questions

Questions you might have about Mapesu Private Game Reserve

Mapesu Private Game Reserve is in the Limpopo Province, South Africa. It adjoins the Mapungubwe National Park and World Heritage Site, which makes Mapesu a popular stopover for those looking to journey through ancient Africa. We are very close to the borders of Botswana and Zimbabwe, and just two and a half hours away from Kruger National Park (Parufi Gate).

Yes. We share our reserve with elephants, rhinos, buffalo, leopards, and lions. Visitors can enjoy seeing them on game drives, walking safaris, and wildlife tracking, all in a malaria-free region rich in biodiversity and cultural heritage.

The closest town is Musina (Messina), 63km to the East. The road to our front gate is tarred all the way. There is only a short distance of gravel farm road to the lodge.

To find specific directions from Johannesburg & Pretoria, Kruger National Park, Pilanesberg, Sun City, and Rustenburg, Botswana, and Pontdrif, or Zimbabwe and Beit Bridge, click here, where you will also find advice on getting to and from Johannesburg’s Tambo International Airport and Polokwane’s Gateway International Airport.

Yes, with conservation at the heart of what we do, families can enjoy learning about the amazing animals we help to look after and discover incredible African history as part of our cultural heritage tours. We would recommend, however, checking with our team regarding suitable accommodation and any age restrictions for our activities.

Mapesu offers a variety of safari accommodations in Limpopo to suit every traveler, from 4-star luxury at Mopane Bush Lodge and glamping options to self-catering at Lucca Lodge and immersive tented stays at our Mapesu Campsite. All options provide comfort, access to Big Five safaris, and proximity to Mapungubwe’s World Heritage Site.

We share our natural surroundings with a diverse range of wildlife, including many varieties of mammal and bird species. The area is known for its rich biodiversity, and we are committed to preserving and further enhancing that. Since 2016, we have successfully reintroduced elephants, cheetahs, sables, giraffes, buffalo, and, notably, rhinos. Our collaboration with the Endangered Wildlife Trust’s Cheetah Meta Population Project marks a significant step in our conservation efforts, providing an immersive experience in conservation through our unique cheetah walk activity.

Our Latest News

Facebook

 Facebook

Safari Game Drive at Mapesu Private Game Reserve

 Instagram

 Mapesu Blog

Mapesu Guest Reviews

4.5
Based on 51 reviews
powered by Google
Mau C.
13:15 17 Dec 24
Amazing place and super friendly hosts.
THILIVHALI V.
05:32 11 Oct 24
I loved the views from the bar and the boma dinner was very delicious.
Ogopotse Batlokwa P.
20:26 22 Aug 24
Fantastic place, peaceful, clean, quite and upscale with a great view of wildlife all around. Its worth another visit. Great for family or workplace outings
Tom M.
09:45 19 Jul 24
Highly recommended! Great service and staff, meals were fantastic and the wildlife made sure we were up by 5.30am!!
Rocio G.
13:07 02 Oct 23
I had an absolutely amazing stay at Mapesu Safari Lodge! The lodge is stunning with fantastic amenities, and our spacious, well-equipped room was a delight. The clean pool was a refreshing bonus. The staff's attentiveness and kindness made the experience even more special. The chef's culinary skills were top-notch, especially for us vegetarians, offering delicious options for every meal. Our safari tour was informative and memorable, thanks to our excellent guide. When my husband left his passport in the room, Caitlin went above and beyond to ensure we got it back, sparing us a 7-hour drive. This has been one of our best travel experiences yet!