5 Reasons to Take a Road Trip to Marakele National Park

There are plenty of world-renowned safari destinations in South Africa, but if you want to go somewhere that feels wild, dramatic, and not too crowded, Marakele National Park is the answer. This remarkable wilderness area is in the middle of the Waterberg Mountains in Limpopo Province, with a landscape of rough cliffs and thick bushveld. Best of all, it’s only a few hours’ drive from Johannesburg and Pretoria.

A road trip in a 4×4 rental from South Africa to Marakele is the perfect way to get away from the city and have a real safari experience. So, with that in mind, here are five reasons why you should add this amazing park to your travel plans.

A Landscape of Contrasts and the Famous Vulture Colony

Vulture in Marakele National Park | Photo: Micky Baker

Marakele is a place of profound contrasts, with high cliffs giving way to rolling grassland and grassy plains flowing into heavy riverine thickets. This variety makes it an ideal habitat for birds and other wildlife.

The famous Cape vulture colony is one of the park’s most popular – and unusual – attractions. It’s one of the biggest breeding colonies of the endangered species in the world. Located on the cliffs of the Waterberg, it gives visitors the rare and humbling chance to see hundreds of these huge birds soaring on the wind currents.

The ride to the vulture viewpoint is unforgettable, largely thanks to the rough passes and twisting mountain roads. This is especially true if you love picturesque drives as much as seeing wildlife.

Marakele is quieter and more laid-back than some of South Africa’s more well-known parks. This means you won’t have to fight for space when you see animals, and you’ll often have the road (and the views) all to yourself. This is the best thing about Marakele for a lot of people: you can go on a safari at your own leisure, in the middle of natural scenery, without having to deal with tourist traffic.

Game Drives on Beautiful Self-drive Routes

Marakele National Park at sunset | Photo: Micky Baker

One of the best things about Marakele is that it’s perfect for a self-drive safari. The park has a network of gravel and paved roads that are excellent for cruising around and seeing what you can find. Some of the best routes include:

Lenong Drive: A steep mountain route that takes you to a stunning overlook where you may see vultures riding the thermals.

Tlopi Loop: A quiet drive around the dam where you can see elephants, rhinos, and antelope during the day.

Kwaggasvlakte Plains: These wide-open grasslands are home to several herds of zebra, giraffe, and wildebeest that eat there.

There are several different routes, so you can experience everything from big-game country to quiet birdwatching locations, all from the driver’s seat.

Accommodation That Immerses You in Nature

Accommodation over a watering hole | Photo: Micky Baker

Marakele has several places to stay that will fit your vacation style, whether you choose a modest campsite or a more comfortable cabin.

Tlopi Tented Camp lies on the banks of a dam. Each safari tent has its own balcony with views of animals coming to drink from the river. You might even spot an African fish eagle or a giant kingfisher!

Meanwhile, Bontle Camping Site is popular with people who plan to spend most of their days on game drives. It’s not caged in, so you can fall asleep to the sounds of the bush and see wildlife come by every now and again. As with most national parks, Marakele also boasts self-catering accommodations for people who prefer additional comfort.

Nearby Attractions Worth Adding to Your Road Trip

Accommodations in Marakele National Park | Photo: Micky Baker

Part of the beauty of a South Africa road trip is the chance to explore beyond a single destination. Marakele is ideally located for combining with other attractions in Limpopo and the Waterberg region. Here are a few of our favourite suggestions:

Waterberg Biosphere: A UNESCO-recognised area rich in cultural heritage, wildlife, and outdoor adventure activities like hiking and horseback safaris.

Welgevonden Game Reserve: A private reserve next door, home to the Big Five, luxury lodges, and malaria-free safaris.

Thabazimbi Town: A convenient stopover for supplies, with local eateries and glimpses into the region’s mining history.

By extending your trip just a little, you’ll unlock an even broader safari circuit – perfect for adventurous travellers.

Recommended 4×4 Rentals for a Marakele Self-Drive Safari

Toyota Hilux Double Cab 4x4 camping equipped. This is perfect for a self-drive safari in Marakele National Park.

Toyota Hilux Double Cab 4×4 camping equipped | Photo: Toyota

When it comes to navigating Marakele’s dynamic terrain – from gravel game tracks to rugged mountain passes – a reliable 4×4 is essential. Drive South Africa offers some of the most trusted options for your road trip:

Toyota Hilux Double Cab 4×4 (2.4 l Diesel – Camping Kit Included): A fantastic mix of comfort and convenience, this version is configured for true outdoors adventure. It seats four adults comfortably and comes equipped with everything you need to camp where the wild takes you – ideal for setting camp at Bontle.
Toyota Hilux Double Cab 4×4 (Standard, Non-Camping): Built for reliability, this base model boasts a heavy-duty chassis, smooth engine response, and a large fuel tank for extended range. Perfect if you plan to stay in chalets or lodges while driving the park’s scenic routes like the Kwaggasvlakte Plains.
Toyota Land Cruiser 4×4 (Safari-Ready Workhorse): For those planning longer routes or more rugged self-drives, the Land Cruiser delivers superior power, elevated ride height, and unmatched durability. Its capability on steep gradients and loose surfaces makes it a premium choice for serious off-road hotspots like Lenong Drive.

Safari Checklist: What to Pack

African fish eagle in Marakele National Park | Photo: Micky Baker

To make the most of your Marakele road trip, don’t forget these essentials:

Binoculars – Especially for birdwatching at the vulture colony.
Camera & Spare Batteries – You’ll want to capture both the landscapes and the wildlife.
Mosquito Repellent – Essential for evenings around camp.
Lightweight Layers – The Waterberg can be chilly in the mornings and warm by midday.
Safari Guidebook or App – To help identify animals and birds along the way.
Reusable Water Bottle & Snacks – Stay hydrated and energised on long drives.
Torch or Headlamp – For camp evenings under the stars.

A little preparation goes a long way in making your safari smooth and enjoyable. A road trip to Marakele National Park is the perfect blend of self-drive adventure, wildlife encounters, and soul-stirring scenery. From its dramatic cliffs and famous vulture colony to its peaceful accommodation and nearby attractions, Marakele offers an authentic safari without the crowds.

With the right 4×4, the open road, and a sense of curiosity, you’ll discover why this hidden gem deserves a place on your South Africa itinerary. Ready to plan your trip? Hire a 4×4 with Drive South Africa today and set off on an unforgettable self-drive safari to Marakele National Park.