Mateya Safari Lodge

Mateya is a true hidden gem in South Africa. Only an hour outside of Johannesburg, it is the perfect escape whether for a short stay or, like my family, a 10–11 day trip which we have been doing for the last eleven years. We first discovered Mateya by chance, after the lodge we previously used was fully booked and it turned out to be one of the best things that ever happened to us. Mateya is truly one of a kind: from the interiors and rooms to the game drives, food, and, most importantly, the staff who go above and beyond in every way. Every drive is magical. Whether it’s elephants playing in the mud, lions lounging in the sun, or the notorious “bush chicken” (guineafowl) making an appearance, every moment is unique. The guiding team understands exactly how to create an experience that suits each guest, relaxed, unhurried, and full of surprises. The food is extraordinary. Rose and her team are exceptional chefs and cater to all dietary requirements with ease and creativity. Our family includes dairy-free, egg-intolerant, and diabetic diets quite complex yet they consistently create delicious meals you would never imagine are adapted. The lodge’s artwork is breathtaking, and you feel Susan’s spirit throughout from the main dining room to the individual suites. It manages to feel homely, welcoming, luxurious, and deeply personal all at once. And if you’re lucky, you may even have a visitor wander past your room on their way to the waterhole by the main sitting area. The staff are exceptional. Every team member contributes to making your stay unforgettable, and the warmth and care they show are beyond anything we have experienced elsewhere. I cannot recommend Mateya more highly. It is everything you could dream of and more.

This place is truly amazing! The location, the accommodation, the staff and food are all second to none. Our game drives with Kiwi and Ferguson have given us memories to last a lifetime - how they spotted the animals was unbelievable at times!! Their knowledge and expertise about the animals and the local culture was so interesting - each game drive was such a memorable experience. It was nice to enjoy the game drives with only one other couple, so there was more than enough room for everyone on the vehicle. There’s a great team running everything, and it was really nice getting to know everyone (especially Fred & Mila). I have awkward food intolerances which were catered for without issue - and I got to eat some of the best food, and had a varied menu choice daily. Nothing was too much trouble. I can’t recommend this place highly enough, we’ve made some incredible memories during our stay that will last a lifetime.

Fabulous! We felt spoiled, pampered and cared for throughout our stay. Wonderful guide and tracker gave us great wild life on every safari. Loved their knowledge and willingness to share what they know (from tracking, animal behavior to the stars in the sky). Magical. So enjoyed safaris with our early morning coffee and snacks, then the sunset happy hours were so special, all in a beautiful location. Food is incredible! Such great variety, beautiful presentation. The lodge and your rooms are filled with outstanding artwork. You feel surrounded by beautiful spaces everywhere and lovely people. Thank you Mateya!

A step apart from the ordinary, even if it's spectacular, Mateya lodge is not to be missed. Every moment spent there is a version of living your best life. From the exquisite lodge, rooms, game drives and meals, the experience fulfills even the grandest dreams of a South African safari. Plus you'll leave with new knowledge of local botany, astronomy, and the social behavior within and amongst the local wildlife. Special thanks to our outstanding hosts Christine, Werner, and of course the doggies. Till we meet again.

Wow! Wow! Wow! We have been lucky enough to stay in some wonderful lodges all over Africa but Mateya is sooooooooo special and I must say hard to beat. Werner and Christina are so inspirational and professional. They work so hard but make everything look and feel so seamless. The staff are amazing, Ferguson was just brilliant and Michael couldn't be more helpful. You are made to feel so welcome. We had some of the best game drives and viewings ever - Werner's knowledge is remarkable. Rooms are elegant and luxurious again with touches that make you feel they have thought of everything including giving my husband his own cookie jar with gluten free options. The chef was great and very accommodating to dietary needs. To watch the game wonder to the watering hole from your private plunge pool or from the deck whilst having al fresco lunch or dinner is just breath taking and memories that will stay with us forever! Thank you for letting us share your piece of paradise with you! We wouldn't ever want to stay anywhere else in Madikwe but Mateya!