Discover Africa’s Untamed Beauty at a Private Game Reserve Shaped by Wildlife, Heritage, and Adventure.

A precious piece of wilderness in the northern part of Limpopo, South Africa.

Get to Know us

Mapesu Private Game Reserve is situated on the edge of Mapungubwe National Park and UNESCO World Heritage site, on a treasured piece of wilderness in northern Limpopo, South Africa.

We offer a rare combination of wild African beauty, rich cultural history, and an opportunity for guests to create unforgettable memories by getting up close and personal with the diverse wildlife sharing our 12,500-hectare sanctuary.

Encounter the Big 5, spot more than 300 bird species, and experience Africa’s iconic wildlife up close. At Mapesu, every sighting supports meaningful conservation, helping protect endangered species and restore the land. Through our partnerships with the Endangered Wildlife Trust, the Cheetah Metapopulation Initiative, and African Parks, we have successfully reintroduced elephants, cheetahs, and rhinos, with more conservation milestones still to come.

From luxurious bush lodges to cosy tented camps, Mapesu offers accommodation for every kind of stay; whether you’re planning a romantic escape, a family adventure, or a peaceful nature retreat. However, you choose to experience Mapesu, you’ll be surrounded by iconic baobabs, red sandstone ridges, and the timeless stories woven into the landscape.

Our team looks forward to making your stay memorable. Whether you choose to experience conservation firsthand through animal tracking programs or game counts, walk in the footsteps of ancient tribes on a San rock art tour, or relax and indulge at the Sala Spa, there’s something for everyone at Mapesu.

Our Vision and Mission

Conservation Through Responsible Tourism
At Mapesu Private Game Reserve, conservation is at the heart of everything we do. Through responsible tourism, we invite our guests to play an active role in protecting South Africa’s precious ecosystems.

Our Sanctuary and Vision
Through dedicated rewilding efforts, we have transformed 12,500 hectares into a thriving wildlife sanctuary. We envision tourism as a force for protecting natural habitats, with every visit to Mapesu supporting the ongoing restoration of this remarkable landscape.

 

Wildlife & Conservation

 

Looking ahead, our vision is a future where tourism continues to support the conservation of the world’s wild places. We invite you to join us on this great wildlife adventure.

 

lion at mapesu
elephant at Mapungubwe National Park
cheetah
white rhinoceroses