Romantic getaways in Waterberg

The Waterberg is a malaria-free Big Five safari with mountains, gorges and clear rivers, about three hours north of Johannesburg. For a romantic long weekend in the bush, it is hard to beat.

The area is a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve and includes private reserves such as Welgevonden, where the lodges are spread out and vehicle numbers are kept low. The scenery is more dramatic than most bushveld, with cliffs and valleys that turn gold in the evening light.

The lodges we list range from intimate private lodges to cliff-top hideaways, many with plunge pools and decks looking out over the valleys. Some reserves limit self-drive access, so you may leave your car at the gate and be collected by the lodge, which only adds to the sense of escape.

Winters are dry with cold mornings and warm days; summers are green, with afternoon thunderstorms that are spectacular from a covered deck.