SANParks.org Forums

Hi,

We are visiting Marekele this weekend as a group of 20 people. Will the marathon affect normal visitors to the park?

There wont be any effect on the park operation during the Marathon. The park will be function as normal. Marakele National Park ensures all our visitors that operations will be as normal.

Hi Cassius,

Unfortunately you could not call Saturday morning normal.
Runners, toilets, pit stops, loud music, kids running around, people hanging off bakkies made the experence very unplesant. The action of a Matharon taking place in a National Park should be condemed.

Earthwalker

I had an opportunity to be part of the Marathon and i don’t recall such incidents, taking place in the Park; however I am not denying your comments with that regard. I will ask the Report back from the Orginising Team to look at the outcomes and the highlights of Marakele Marathon.

We had rangers in place to ensure security and discipline in the Park during the Marathon

I will also communicate your concerns to our Regional and the Park Manager.

I read last night in the new Weg magazine that there is a new 3 night 4x4 trail in Marekele that opened in April. I see nothing on the Marekele website. Anyone have info on this?

Apparanetly a hiking trail and two new camps are also being planned.

Spent 3 nights at Tlopi Tented Camp last weekend. It was our first visit to Marakele and we didn't know quite what to expect (had some ideas from the Forum). What a wonderful place!! Had quite a heavy frost Sat night/Sun morning - luckily took extra blankets from home.

Sat morning went for a drive on the short 4x4 road - comment: it really is 4x4 only and high clearance. My bakkie managed fine but smaller or non-4x4 would battle. Although the guys at Reception pointed the 4x4 track out on the map, there were no signs at the beginning of the track, warning people that is is only 4x4. I can imagine people going down there by accident and then getting into trouble.

Back to camp to sit and watch a breeding herd of 20+ elephants drinking at the dam just in front of our tent. What a wonderful sight.

Sunday morning: up to the view site. What an amazing road and well worth going up - even though it was freezing up there. Only saw 2 vultures, though.

Question: what is Modikela Bush Camp?? Understand it is where the original tented camp was situated. What is it now? Can one book it? If so, how?

On Monday morning got up fairly early, packed and left the camp - vowing to return as soon as possible. Got to the electric gate at the tunnel - dead! Luckily there was cell phone reception there and phoned Reception. Very pleasant chaps came along with key to put gate on manual. Comment: put a sign at gate to say "if gate not working, please phone ......."

All in all, the park is a gem and is well worth a visit/s.

I am glad you have enjoy your sty in Marakele National it is in did the jewel of wild animals ranging from Rhinos and Zebras; not forget the flying birds of the wild life that oversee the scenery.

We shall consider your advice and highly priorities that in the best interest of our clients.

Thanks Cassius.

My comments were not intended as criticisms - just suggestions.

We look forward to a return visit.

what is Modikela Bush Camp?? Understand it is where the original tented camp was situated. What is it now? Can one book it? If so, how? i have over look your question below about Modikela Bush Camp, please find the answer below


Modikela Bush was originally accommodation for guests then it was later used for groups e.g. schools, universities and staff. For now it is closed.

It is my pleasure again to see that you are acknowlaging the joy you have axperinced in Marakele.

Kind Regard

Hi there.

We plan to visit Marakele next year but have no idea what to expect. We DO NOT have a 4x4 vehicle. We have a 7 seater passanger vehivle with a normal caravan. Will we be able to drive in Marakele with our vehicle without damaging it? What camp should we book in?

Regards,
Deon

Hi Deon

Most roads in Marakele are accessible by ordinary sedan. The 4x4 tracks are clearly indicated. You will have no problems with your vehicle!

The camp that is suitable for camping is Bontle. It is situated in the game rich Kwaggasvlakte part of Marakele. The amenities are quite good. I am sure you will really enjoy a visit to Marakele. Remember to visit the "Towers" on the top of the mountain!

Please take note that Marakele Reception and main Offices telephone number (old number 014 777 1745) has changed in future please dial 014 777 6929. This is due to the upgrade by Telkom from the old farm line to the new space stream (satellite) which has been completed recently. The alternative numbers are 014 777 6928/6930 & 6931. We apologize for the inconvenience caused.

Any more info on the new hiking trail?