Safari Plains is a luxury tented safari lodge located within the 12,000-hectare Mabula Private Game Reserve in the Waterberg region of Limpopo. Just over two hours from Johannesburg, this malaria-free reserve offers a seamless Big Five experience combined with elegant accommodations, making it a strong recommendation for short-stay luxury safaris and pre- or post-golf extensions. Safari Plains offers a collection of spacious, air-conditioned luxury tents and luxury tented suites. Each unit is elegantly furnished with private wrap-around decks, indoor and outdoor showers, deep soaking bathtubs, and sliding glass doors that open onto the bush. The tented suites add extra privacy and are ideal for honeymooners or high-end FIT.
The lodge features a large central lodge area with a bar, lounge, library, and indoor and outdoor dining areas. There is also a spa offering massage and wellness treatments, a swimming pool with poolside service, and a curated wine selection. Safari Plains is fully equipped to accommodate leisure and incentive groups, and offers complimentary Wi-Fi in public areas. Safari Plains is ideally positioned for golf and safari combinations. Key golf courses in proximity include:
Legend Golf & Safari Resort (Sterkrivier): The approximate driving distance from Legend Golf & Safari to Mabula Game Reserve is about 146 km, with an estimated driving time of around 1 hour and 40 minutes under normal road conditions. Big‑Five reserve course with a signature hole designed by 18 star players and the famed Extreme 19th.
Zebula Golf Estate & Spa: 40 minutes (35 km): A popular bushveld course surrounded by game and bush scenery. Golfers play amid free-roaming game, in a world-class environment that balances playability, design, and safari-style ambiance.
Elements Private Golf Reserve: 1 hour 10 minutes (85 km): One of South Africa’s top-ranked golf courses, renowned for its pristine layout and natural setting. Elements Private Golf Reserve has been rated in the Top 30 Golf Courses of South Africa for the last 10 years.
Euphoria Golf Estate: 1 hour 30 minutes (120 km): Known for its Annika Sörenstam-designed course and mountain cable car. It features South Africa’s first 18‑hole championship course designed by a woman, golf legend Annika Sörenstam, thoughtfully routed through natural bushveld terrain with water features and indigenous plants.
These courses can be built into a client’s itinerary as day trips or overnight combinations, and tee times should be pre-booked. Safari Plains is:
- 2 hours 15 minutes (210 km) from Johannesburg by road, via the N1 and R516.
- Accessible by private charter to Mabula Airstrip, just 20 minutes from the lodge.
- Transfers can be arranged for FITs or groups from Johannesburg or OR Tambo International Airport.
Selling Point for Agents
Safari Plains combines ease of access with a full Big Five safari in a malaria-free environment—an important feature for families and short-stay clients. The tented style brings a sense of exclusivity, while the quality of guiding, food, and service aligns well with high-end expectations. Its proximity to premier bushveld golf courses makes it particularly well-suited to clients looking for a blend of golf and safari without extensive travel. Reliable, polished, and beautifully set in the Waterberg wilderness, Safari Plains is a versatile and valuable partner for golf and safari programs.