Is Makweti Safari Lodge really a five-star hotel?

Yes. Its own classification data carries five stars; that rating, not a style label, is what puts a property in this collection.

Makweti Safari Lodge

★★★★★ Off the R517, Welgevonden Game Reserve, ZA

9.7 guest rating· 77 reviews

The five stars

Makweti Safari Lodge holds a five-star rating in its official classification, the requirement for every property in the Hotels of Earth collection.

The service side of those stars shows in its listing: Swimming pool, Terrace, Outdoor pool, Sun terrace and Pool with view.

Guests score it 9.7/10 across 77 reviews.

About this hotel

Luxurious Accommodation in the Big 5 Welgevonden Game Reserve

Spectacular Views and Private Suites

Experience the beauty of the gorge-defined valley and hills from your own balcony or patio in one of our 5 suites. Enjoy the comfort of a private entrance, well-appointed bathrooms, and thoughtful amenities like a minibar and cozy seating area.

Relaxation and Adventure Await

Unwind by the outdoor swimming pool, or soak in the natural surroundings from the lodge's open lounge and viewing deck overlooking a waterhole. Embark on thrilling safaris in open vehicles included in your stay, and don't forget to capture the stunning wildlife moments.

Convenient Amenities and Nearby Attractions

Stay connected with free WiFi, and explore the nearby town of Bela-Bela just a short drive away. With luxury, adventure, and convenience at your fingertips, your unforgettable safari experience awaits at Makweti Safari Lodge.

Rooms & rates

Pick your dates. Prices are live, not cached.

Suite with pool including two games drives

Sleeps 2 · 60 m² · Extra-large double bed (Super-king size)

Desk
Air conditioning
Bathrobe
Private bathroom
Coffee/tea maker

This suite has a balcony, seating area and bathrobe. This package includes: * Accommodations and all meals (excluding beverages and gratuities) * Tea and coffee * 2 x safari activities per day (including game drives in an open vehicle and guided walking safaris) * Fixed-schedule return transfers from Welgevonden Game Reserve Main Gate or Welgevonden Airstrip to Makweti Safari Lodge.

Suite including two games drives

Sleeps 2 · 60 m² · Extra-large double bed (Super-king size)

Desk
Air conditioning
Bathrobe
Private bathroom
Coffee/tea maker

This suite features a balcony, patio and seating area. This package includes: * Accommodations and all meals (excluding beverages and gratuities) * Tea and coffee * 2 x safari activities per day (including game drives in an open vehicle and guided walking safaris) * Fixed-schedule return transfers from Welgevonden Game Reserve Main Gate or Welgevonden Airstrip to Makweti Safari Lodge.

Amenities

Free WiFi
Outdoor pool
Pool bar
Pool with view
Salt-water pool
Swimming pool
Free Parking
Restaurant
Bar
Screens / Barriers between staff and guests for safety
Air conditioning
Sun loungers or beach chairs
24-hour security
Non-smoking rooms

Show all 61 amenities

Non-smoking throughout
Airport shuttle (additional charge)
Access to health care professionals
Adult only
Airport drop off
Airport pick up
Cashless payment available
Cleaning standards that are effective against Coronavirus
Contactless check-in/check-out
Daily housekeeping
Face masks for guests available
Fire extinguishers
First aid kit available
Fruits
Game drives
Garden
Guest room sealed after cleaning
Guest rooms disinfected between stays
Guests can opt-out any cleaning services during stay
Hand sanitizer in guest room and key areas
Heating
Invoice provided
Ironing service
Key access
Laundry
Laundry washed per local authority guidelines
Outdoor fireplace
Outdoor furniture
Physical distancing in dining areas
Physical distancing rules followed
Private check-in/check-out
Process in place to check health of guests
Safety deposit box
Sanitized tableware & silverware
Shallow end
Shared lounge/TV area
Shared stationery like menus, pens are removed
Shuttle service
Shuttle service (free)
Special diet menus - on request
Staff adhere to local safety protocols
Sun terrace
Sun umbrellas
Terrace
Thermometers for guests provided by property
Walking tours
Wine/champagne

Location

Off the R517, Welgevonden Game Reserve, ZA

Check-in: from 01:00 PM to 04:00 PM
Check-out: until 11:30 AM

What guests say9.777 reviews

+ Exceptional service+ Stunning wildlife encounters+ Beautiful location+ Comfortable accommodation

Cleanliness9.6

Service10.0

Location9.9

Room Quality9.6

Amenities9.5

Value for Money9.4

Our stay was spectacular. The staff was friendly, welcoming and personable. I highly recommend 10/10
10.0
Quaint, gorgeous and peaceful
− N/A
Danielle · US · 2026-03-25

Guest review
10.0
Alles
− Nichts
Redelf-Dietrich · DE · 2026-03-19

a well managed location with wonderful staff who looked after us very well
9.0
Philippa · ZA · 2026-03-09

Dit is wat ze noemen “ VIP” !!!
10.0
Vanaf het moment van aankomst tot ons vertrek werden we volledig in de watten gelegd. Het ontbreekt je bij Makweti safari lodge werkelijk aan helemaal niks. Bijzonder mooie kleinschalige lodge, fantastische Rangers en de “Big 5” gezien. Super lief personeel, niks is teveel en fantastisch eten.
Marcel · NL · 2026-01-24

Guest review
10.0
Die Safaris waren hervorragend, genau wie das Essen, wir wurden rundherum verwöhnt!
Elke · DE · 2025-11-30

Hotels of Earth · questions

Is Makweti Safari Lodge really a five-star hotel?: Yes. Its own classification data carries five stars; that rating, not a style label, is what puts a property in this collection.

Good to know

Please note compulsory conservation fees are applicable and excluded from the rates. This will be collected on departure from all guests.

Please note that all rates exclude beverages.

In the event that a reservation is canceled, any credit card charges, bank charges or variation in exchange rates, on a payment is for the guests account. Refunds will less any charges incurred.

Please note that Welgevonden airstrip is now serviced by a flight three times a week, starting 1 Dec 2025.Please inform of your expected arrival time in advance. You can use the Special Requests box when booking, or contact the property directly using the contact details in your confirmation.

Payment before arrival by bank transfer is required. The property will contact you after you book to provide instructions.

›Children and extra bed policy

Children ages 12 and older are allowed.

You haven't added any cots.

You haven't added any extra beds.

›Internet

WiFi is available in public areas and is free of charge.

›Pets

Pets are not allowed.

›Parking

Free private parking is possible on site (reservation is needed).

Makweti Safari Lodge♡