Matamba bush camp and lodge is situated within the Waterberg biosphere and is part of the Waterberg conservancy. Malaria free and with easy access from Johannesburg, Pretoria and Polokwane, Matamba is on the R33 between Vaalwater and Lephalale.
Matamba has two different accommodation options. The bush campsite offers a unique camping experience with individual campsites nestled under wild syringa trees, the family ablution block built from natural material blends into the surrounding bush.
The lodge accommodation is luxurious, a large central dining and living area with a bar and pool. There are four tasteful chalets each with a king size bed. The lodge is set in a magnificent indigenous garden which attracts an incredible variety of birdlife. Matamba is owner run, Sue and Alan offer their guests a farm stay experience with freshly prepared wholesome meals which can be served either in the dining room or under the stars in the lapa.
Matamba’s habitat comprises Terminalia bushveld, open plains where Bushveld pipit, lizard buzzard, Black breasted snake eagle are frequently seen. There are over 30 km of walking and mountain biking trails with spectacular views of the Welgevonden Game Reserve in the mountains. The birdlife is prolific; and with relaxed plains game, Matamba offers bushveld birding at its best!
This reserve in the far north eastern part of the Waterberg has some of the most spectacular scenery anywhere in the province. There is a spectacular escarpment of red sandstone cliffs and a host of lone-standing mesas that remind one of postcards of Arizona in the USA. The reserve is just over 4000 hectares and the habitats are mainly deciduous broadleaved woodland. The main birding attraction of the reserve are the raptors - there are 4 pairs of Verreaux’s Eagle breeding on the cliffs as well as African Hawk Eagle, African Harrier Hawk, Lanner Falcon and rock Kestrel. Lizard Buzzard and Brown and Black-chested Snake Eagles are also found here. The other interesting species that have been found here include Retz’s Helmentshrike, Grey Tit-Flycatcher and Short-toed Rock Thrush. There is an Ivory Route camp in the reserve.