• 4x4 and walking safaris in Madikwe Game Reserve
• Refined and stylish decor
• Watch animals at the waterhole
• Dine by the glow of the fire
• Cool off in your own plunge pool

Mateya Safari Lodge exudes style. Sitting in the lounge with its wood-beamed ceiling, glass wall and open fireplace you can admire the many artworks that adorn the walls and shelves, a collection that has been amassed over the years. It has the feel of a gracious home. The library features historic volumes of African literature and there's a gallery where you can see more fine paintings and works of art. The spa offers a broad menu of treatments, and there's a small gym. Meals are served in the elegant dining room and on the deck, where the fire is lit at night.

None of this detracts from the location. The lounge leads out to a large deck where you can sit and watch wildlife at the waterhole, and a large part of your time at Mateya will be spent out on game drives and bush walks in Madikwe Game Reserve. Plains game abounds and predators include lion, cheetah and wild dog. Each safari is led by a ranger and a tracker, both with a wealth of experience and expertise, and you'll come away with a greatly enhanced understanding of the African bush.

There are just 5 suites. Wonderfully spacious, each has an indoor sitting area complete with a fireplace for chilly mornings and evenings, and air conditioning when the outside temperature soars. The large bathroom has a sunken bathtub and twin hand basins, and leads out to a walled shower enclosure that is open to the sky. At the front of each suite there's a terrace with comfy chairs, a parsol and your very own plunge pool.