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Makumu Private Game Lodge

Farm Dundee 32KU Klaserie Private Nature Reserve, Kruger National Park 1380 South Africa
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Traveller (474)
Room & Suite (31)
Dining (27)
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About

#2 of 9 lodges in Klaserie Private Game Reserve
Location
Cleanliness
Service
Value
Travellers' Choice
AN UNFORGETTABLE AFRICAN ADVENTURE IN COMPLETE PRIVACY... In the Xitsonga language, the word “Makumu” refers to an intangible explanation of an open space, an uncluttered lookout over distant horizons, or an endless view. The breathtaking views and location of the lodge complement a deeply inspiring sense of space and place, leaving visitors rejuvenated with the ancient spirit of African wilderness. The ‘Big Five’ Klaserie Private Nature Reserve is one of the largest privately owned nature reserves in South Africa, covering some 60 000 hectares and forming part of the greater Kruger National Park. Makumu Private Game Lodge is an intimate oasis in this vast wilderness, surrounded by the harshness, unpredictability and unspoiled appeal of the African bushveld. Six luxurious and beautifully appointed suites, accommodating a maximum of twelve guests, ensure an exclusive blend of absolute comfort, style and privacy.
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Property amenities
Free parking
Free High Speed Internet (WiFi)
Pool
Fitness Centre with Gym / Workout Room
Free breakfast
Game room
Walking tours
Airport transportation
Secured parking
Public wifi
Pool / beach towels
Pool with view
Outdoor pool
Shallow end in pool
Bar / lounge
Restaurant
Breakfast available
Complimentary Instant Coffee
Complimentary tea
Complimentary welcome drink
Outdoor dining area
Special diet menus
Wine / champagne
Board games / puzzles
Foot massage
Full body massage
Massage
24-hour security
Baggage storage
Gift shop
Mosquito net
Outdoor fireplace
Outdoor furniture
Shared lounge / TV area
Sun deck
Sun loungers / beach chairs
Sun terrace
Sun umbrellas
First aid kit
Umbrella
Private check-in / check-out
Laundry service
Ironing service
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Room features
Bathrobes
Air conditioning
Desk
Housekeeping
Interconnected rooms available
Extra long beds
Sofa bed
Bath / shower
Private balcony
Safe
Seating area
Sofa
Bottled water
Clothes rack
Private bathrooms
Wake-up service / alarm clock
Complimentary toiletries
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Room types
Mountain view
Landmark view
Non-smoking rooms
Suites
Family rooms
Good to know
HOTEL STYLE
Luxury
Great View
Languages Spoken
English, French, Afrikaans, Dutch and 1 more

Location

Farm Dundee 32KU Klaserie Private Nature Reserve, Kruger National Park 1380 South Africa
Makumu Private Game Lodge
Getting there
Phalaborwa Airport
23.6 km
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Hoedspruit Airport
27.5 km
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198Reviews10Q+A25Room tips
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Tourist14050863809 wrote a review Jan 2024
1 contribution
Where to start... Makumu will forever hold a very special spot in our hearts. Absolutely everything about Makumu from start to finish is perfect. The lodge itself, the lovely people behind it, the food, the rooms, the atmosphere, the game drives, everything is immaculate. The lodge radiates luxury, but also blends seamlessly with the bushveld. The sweeping views, the candlelight and the attentive care everyone lays to ensure that your stay is as memorable as possible, are only a few things I'd like to mention. The entire staff genuinely love what they do and make a great effort to get to know the guests and give them the feeling of belonging. Every dietary requirement was considered and every wish we had was taken into consideration. We had our engagement at Makumu and the entire staff helped me plan the entire day and made sure that it was as memorable as possible. We want to thank Shelley, Ruan, Thomas, Julia, Maggy and everyone else for making this a once-in-a-lifetime stay. We can only recommend Makumu to the fullest. Christian
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Date of stay: January 2024Trip type: Travelled as a couple
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
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Response from Makumu Private Game Lodge, Marketing at Makumu Private Game Lodge
Responded 14 Jan 2024
Dear Christian, Thank you from the bottom of our hearts for such a heartwarming and glowing review. It was an absolute pleasure to have you with us at Makumu, and we are thrilled to hear that your stay was nothing short of perfect. We are overjoyed that you found every aspect of Makumu, from the lodge itself to the people behind it, to be immaculate. Creating a seamless blend of luxury with the bushveld environment is precisely what we aim for, and it's immensely rewarding to know that you felt that radiance throughout your stay. We're delighted that the sweeping views, candlelit atmosphere, and attentive care added to the memorable experience. Knowing that our team genuinely loves what they do and goes the extra mile to ensure guests feel a sense of belonging is truly heartening. Congratulations on your engagement! We're honored to have been part of such a special moment in your lives. It warms our hearts to hear that the entire staff contributed to making your day as memorable as possible. Shelly, Ruan, Thomas, Julia, Maggy, and the rest of our team are thrilled to have been a part of creating a once-in-a-lifetime experience for you. Your recommendation means the world to us, and we look forward to the opportunity to welcome you back to Makumu in the future. Until then, we wish you all the happiness in the world. Warm regards, The Makumu Team
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
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elyssahealy wrote a review Dec 2023
San Diego, California8 contributions
+1
Where to begin! This was the most incredible stay we’ve ever experienced. We were lucky to stay here on our honeymoon and Makumu exceeded expectations on every level. The lodge itself is stunning - pictures don’t do it justice. We could see elephants, giraffes, and so many more wildlife from our room. The candles at night were such a magical and unique experience. The staff is phenomenal. When we were researching lodges, we were looking for reviews that mentioned the staff because you spend so much time on game drives and like so many reviews mention, the safari guides, trackers, and all staff were incredible!! We saw so much every drive and came back to an amazing meal and luxurious accommodations to rest. My husband had been on safari before in Kruger and said this experience didn’t even compare to the first. If you’re like us and are torn between several lodges - look no further. Hope you enjoy as much as we did!
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Date of stay: November 2023Trip type: Travelled as a couple
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
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Response from Makumu Private Game Lodge, Marketing at Makumu Private Game Lodge
Responded 18 Dec 2023
Dear Elyssa, Thank you so much for taking the time to share your wonderful experience at Makumu. We are thrilled to hear that your stay was nothing short of fantastic. We'll make sure to pass on your compliments to the entire staff, including the kitchen team and trackers. We can't wait to welcome you back to Makumu someday. Thank you for giving us the honor of a 5-star rating. Safe travels until we have the pleasure of hosting you again. Warm regards, Makumu Team
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
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Phil C wrote a review Nov 2023
Australia79 contributions27 helpful votes
We stayed at Makumu in early November - it was wonderful. A maximum of 12 guests at any one time in top notch accommodation, lit only by candlelight at night. Stefan the owner was a great entertainer, and we sure enjoyed our time talking about the bush, Africa, and life in general. Two brand new Toyota Land Cruisers were used each day for morning and afternoon/night drives. These were very comfortable with plenty of space – only 6 seats (3 rows of 2) – equipped with special rear suspension to ensure all seat comfort especially at the rear when travelling over rough dirt roads or through the bush in pursuit of a leopard, or lions, for e.g. The chief guides Adi and Ruan were great. We spent most of our time with Ruan who had exceptional knowledge of the bush and was only too pleased to share once he knew we were not just there to see the BIG 5, which we did see many times, but enjoyed hearing about the birdlife, trees, flowers, etc. The support staff at the lodge, including the kitchen staff and trackers were amazing. We certainly hope to return some day. 5 stars for sure.
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Date of stay: November 2023
Value
Location
Service
Trip type: Travelled with family
Room Tip: Book early!
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This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
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Response from Makumu Private Game Lodge, Marketing at Makumu Private Game Lodge
Responded 21 Nov 2023
Dear Phil, Thank you so much for taking the time to share your wonderful experience at Makumu. We are thrilled to hear that your stay was nothing short of fantastic. It's fantastic that you appreciated the intimate setting of Makumu, and glad to hear that Stefan, the owner, added to the enjoyment of your stay. We'll make sure to pass on your compliments to the entire staff, including the kitchen team and trackers. We can't wait to welcome you back to Makumu someday. Thank you for giving us the honor of a 5-star rating. Safe travels until we have the pleasure of hosting you again. Warm regards, Makumu Team
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
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Alita Coetzee wrote a review Nov 2023
2 contributions
+1
We visited Makumu recently and we were blown away by every single aspect. The rooms were absolutely perfect, spacious, and very comfortable. The staff were extremely professional and always made you feel welcome and as comfortable as you can ever be. The chefs at Makumu are magicians, and we were treated to the most spectacular meals. We saw amazing lion sightings on our game drives that we will remember for the rest of our lives. The guides and trackers really are the best there is! We have visited many other similar lodges over the years, and the plan was to see something new every year, but after going to Makumu I'm afraid nothing else will be able to compare and we will be returning asap. I absolutely cannot fault anything at Makumu, they are the most wonderful people, and I would recommend it to anybody and everybody.
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Date of stay: November 2023Trip type: Travelled as a couple
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
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Response from Makumu Private Game Lodge, Marketing at Makumu Private Game Lodge
Responded 15 Nov 2023
Dear Alita, Thank you so much for taking the time to share your wonderful experience at Makumu. We are thrilled to hear that your stay exceeded your expectations in every way. We take great pride in making our guests feel at home and a part of our Makumu family from the moment they arrive. We're delighted you got to experience the amazing lion sighting!! We believe that getting up close to both large and small game offers a truly immersive safari experience, and we're glad you had the opportunity to witness the beauty of the wildlife. Makumu is a place where memories are made, and it's heartwarming to know that it holds a special place in all of your hearts. We look forward to welcoming you and your group back for more unforgettable adventures and cherished moments in the future. Regards, Makumu Team
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
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Hannah J wrote a review Nov 2023
7 contributions2 helpful votes
+1
Wow, wow, wow! We stayed at Makumu as the last stop on our honeymoon. I can quite honestly say it is the best place I have ever stayed. From the moment we were collected from headquarters and given our makumu caps to the minute we left it was just magical. The staff are so kind, friendly, knowledgeable and go so above and beyond to make your stay special, we even got back to a candlelit bathroom with rose petals in the bath after dinner one night. The food was absolutely amazing and we even got to eat alongside the staff most days and nights. And the actual accommodation is better than those that you see in magazines, the views are sensational you can see for miles and sitting by the pool and watching wildlife come to the waterhole is just incredible. The rooms are decorated beautifully and also offer fantastic views from the balcony, the hammocks and seating make it even more comfortable and all of the amenities such as the bath overlooking the bush, the amazing shower and seating in the room are just brilliant. The game drives are amazing, you occasionally see the odd other vehicle but not too often, the guided and trackers know their stuff and do their best to show you all the klaserie has to offer, we were lucky enough to see the big 5 amongst lots of other big and small creatures and animals. We were also lucky enough to try out the lodges new jeeps and they were really smart and comfortable! The fact that makumu is lit up at nighttime by candlelight only adds to the magic. Makumu feels like a home from home and we really couldn’t recommend it enough, we will 100% be back! You really are missing out if you don’t stay here, a true African gem!
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Date of stay: November 2023Trip type: Travelled as a couple
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
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Response from Makumu Private Game Lodge, Marketing at Makumu Private Game Lodge
Responded 10 Nov 2023
Dear Hannah, Thank you so much for taking the time to share your wonderful honeymoon experience at Makumu. We are thrilled to hear that your stay exceeded your expectations in every way. We take great pride in making our guests feel at home and a part of our Makumu family from the moment they arrive. We're delighted you got to experience the new game vehicle! We believe that getting up close to both large and small game offers a truly immersive safari experience, and we're glad you had the opportunity to witness the beauty of the wildlife. Our culinary team takes great care in preparing a diverse array of delicious meals, and we're delighted that the food exceeded your expectations. Makumu is a place where memories are made, and it's heartwarming to know that it holds a special place in all of your hearts. We look forward to welcoming you and your group back for more unforgettable adventures and cherished moments in the future. Regards, Makumu Team
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
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Paul H wrote a review Oct 2023
37 contributions43 helpful votes
All you could possibly want from a Safari. Superbly guided Game Drives, beautiful accommodation, top notch levels of service and delicious food. From the moment you arrive at "headquarters" within the Klaserie Game reserve and you're passed your Makumu Cap, you become one of the family, or at least that's the way you're made to feel! Book away and prepare for a stunning visit.
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Date of stay: October 2023
Value
Location
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Trip type: Travelled as a couple
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
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Response from Makumu Private Game Lodge, Marketing at Makumu Private Game Lodge
Responded 10 Nov 2023
Thank you so much for taking the time to share your wonderful experience at Makumu. We are thrilled to hear that your stay exceeded your expectations in every way. We take great pride in making our guests feel at home and a part of our Makumu family from the moment they arrive. Makumu is a place where memories are made, and it's heartwarming to know that it holds a special place in all of your hearts. We look forward to welcoming you and your group back for more unforgettable adventures and cherished moments in the future. Regards, Makumu Team
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
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Missy D wrote a review Oct 2023
3 contributions
Where to start? All of our many experiences at Makumu exceeded our expectations in every way. Upon arrival we were welcomed in to their "home" and they quickly made it our home and made our group of 8 friends feel like family. Our guide, Adrian and his tracker Clyde were a marvel, getting us up close to both large and small game. Their knowledge of their surroundings and its creatures seemingly knows no bounds(note that many other lodges don't have their own tracker!). The accommodations are exceptional. The lodge is the owners former home and and it was built thoughtfully and lovingly. We loved our spacious room, very comfortable bed and the bathtub overlooking the preserve was a special treat. The food also exceeded our expectations, excellently prepared with plenty of variety. We also took full advantage of the swimming pool in the afternoons and especially enjoyed watching the elephants, giraffes and zebras gather at the pond in the distance. Makumu will always hold a special place in all our hearts.
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Date of stay: September 2023
Value
Location
Service
Trip type: Travelled as a couple
Room Tip: Don't miss any of the game drives, you'll likely miss out on something! I don't do mornings but...
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This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
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Response from Makumu Private Game Lodge, Marketing at Makumu Private Game Lodge
Responded 09 Oct 2023
Thank you so much for taking the time to share your wonderful experience at Makumu. We are thrilled to hear that your stay exceeded your expectations in every way. We take great pride in making our guests feel at home and a part of our Makumu family from the moment they arrive. The knowledge and expertise of our guides, like Adrian and Clyde, are indeed one of our key assets. We believe that getting up close to both large and small game offers a truly immersive safari experience, and we're glad you had the opportunity to witness the beauty of the wildlife. Our culinary team takes great care in preparing a diverse array of delicious meals, and we're delighted that the food exceeded your expectations. Makumu is a place where memories are made, and it's heartwarming to know that it holds a special place in all of your hearts. We look forward to welcoming you and your group back for more unforgettable adventures and cherished moments in the future. Regards, Makumu Team
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
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Pam B wrote a review Sept 2023
Guntersville, Alabama4 contributions
Makumu was so much nicer than I could have imagined. We were warmly greeted and continued to be treated like family by the staff. Our suite was way nicer than any place I have ever stayed and the food and drinks were perfectly timed and delicious. There were only 11 guests so the service was incredible. While there we saw lions, leopards, rhinos, hippos, elephants and zebras to name just a few. It ws a trip of a lifetime.
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Review collected in partnership with this hotel
Date of stay: September 2023
Value
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This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
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Response from Makumu Private Game Lodge, Marketing at Makumu Private Game Lodge
Responded 21 Sept 2023
Thank you for your heartfelt words! We're overjoyed to have surpassed your expectations at Makumu Private Game Lodge! Creating a welcoming, familial atmosphere is a priority for us, and we're thrilled that you felt this warmth from the moment you arrived. It's wonderful to know that you found your suite to be exceptional and that the culinary experience, along with our attentive service, added to the charm of your stay. Observing such incredible wildlife is truly a magical and memorable experience, and we're delighted that your safari at Makumu was indeed a trip of a lifetime. We can't wait for the day we can welcome you back to create more unforgettable memories together. Best wishes, Makumu Private Game Lodge
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
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Aida84 wrote a review Sept 2023
Carrara, Italy20 contributions24 helpful votes
For our first Safari experience Makumu didn't disappoint. From the moment your arrive the staff makes you feel at home and like family. It's a small lodge so you get to know everyone quickly. Food is amazing and they learn your habits and cater to them. We had beautiful game drives where We saw so much and learned a lot. Dinner as a group with the staff each night is a definite highlight. It was an amazing few days! Thank you. Nat & Mo
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Date of stay: September 2023Trip type: Travelled as a couple
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
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Response from Makumu Private Game Lodge, Marketing at Makumu Private Game Lodge
Responded 21 Sept 2023
Thank you for sharing your wonderful first safari experience at Makumu with us! We're absolutely thrilled to read your glowing review. Our team takes immense pride in creating a warm and friendly atmosphere for our guests. It's heartwarming to hear that you enjoyed sharing meals and stories around the same table and that the conversations continued around the fire, overlooking the clearing. We're also delighted that you found the food fantastic, and of course, our safari experiences aim to provide not only duration but also quality explanations. Your recommendation means the world to us, and we can't wait to welcome you back for another unforgettable safari adventure. Warmest regards, Makumu Private Game Lodge
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
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Kristen H wrote a review Sept 2023
1 contribution
Amazing experience. Staff is fantastic, lodging is lovely, food is delicious, safari was outstanding. Saw animals up close and guides were highly knowledgeable. Everything we hoped it would be. Highly recommend.
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Date of stay: September 2023
Value
Location
Service
Trip type: Travelled as a couple
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
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Response from Makumu Private Game Lodge, Marketing at Makumu Private Game Lodge
Responded 21 Sept 2023
Thank you so much for taking the time to share your wonderful experience at our lodge! We're thrilled to hear that your stay with us exceeded your expectations. Our team works hard to ensure that every guest has a memorable and enjoyable time. Providing a comfortable and enjoyable stay is a top priority for us. It's fantastic that you had an outstanding safari experience. Your recommendation means a lot to us, and we look forward to welcoming you back for another amazing safari adventure in the future! Safe travels! Warm Regards, Makumu Private Game Lodge
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
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There are more places to choose from in the Klaserie Private Game Reserve area.
PRICE RANGE
R 20,602 - R 24,186 (Based on Average Rates for a Standard Room)
LOCATION
South AfricaKruger National ParkKlaserie Private Game Reserve
NUMBER OF ROOMS
6
Prices are provided by our partners, and reflect average nightly room rates, including taxes and fees that are fixed, known to our partners, and due at time of booking. Please see our partners for more details.
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MAKUMU PRIVATE GAME LODGE - Reviews & Price Comparison (Klaserie Private Game Reserve, South Africa) - Tripadvisor

Frequently Asked Questions about Makumu Private Game Lodge
What are some of the property amenities at Makumu Private Game Lodge?
Some of the more popular amenities offered include free wifi, free breakfast, and a pool.
Which room amenities are available at Makumu Private Game Lodge?
Top room amenities include air conditioning, a desk, and extra long beds.
What food & drink options are available at Makumu Private Game Lodge?
Guests can enjoy free breakfast, an on-site restaurant, and a lounge during their stay.
Is parking available at Makumu Private Game Lodge?
Yes, free parking and secured parking are available to guests.
Are there opportunities to exercise at Makumu Private Game Lodge?
Yes, guests have access to a pool and a fitness centre during their stay.
Does Makumu Private Game Lodge have airport transportation?
Yes, Makumu Private Game Lodge offers airport transportation for guests. We recommend calling ahead to confirm details.
Which languages are spoken by the staff at Makumu Private Game Lodge?
The staff speaks multiple languages, including English, French, German, Dutch, and Afrikaans.