Question 1

How do I get to Grootfontein?

Accepted Answer

Grootfontein Private Nature Reserve is located in the heart of the Waterberg, Limpopo, approximately 3 hours from Johannesburg and Pretoria.The final 4 km to the reserve is a gravel road. While we do our best to maintain the roads, high-clearance vehicles are recommended, particularly for Mokwepa Lodge, Camp Marula and the mountain route.Aloe Lodge and Matopos Cabin are generally accessible with most standard vehicles driven carefully. If your vehicle has particularly low ground clearance, we recommend taking the gravel road slowly.Our recommended route from Gauteng via Bela Bela > Koedoeskop > Grootfontein. High clearance vehicles are recommended. A pick up from our main gate can be arranged at an additional cost of R200. Google maps pin:https://maps.app.goo.gl/bdrBxf26XAJPo8sCA?g_st=iwb

Question 2

Are pets allowed?

Accepted Answer

Well-behaved dogs are welcome at Aloe Lodge and Matopos Cabin by prior arrangement. Please note that wildlife roams freely throughout the reserve, so pets remain the owner's responsibility at all times.

Question 3

Is there Wi-Fi and cellphone reception?

Accepted Answer

Complimentary Wi-Fi is available in all lodges. Due to our remote location, speeds may vary occasionally.Cellphone reception is limited throughout much of the reserve. Complimentary Wi-Fi is available in the lodges, making WhatsApp and Wi-Fi calling the most reliable ways to stay connected during your visit.

Question 4

Is Grootfontein family-friendly?

Accepted Answer

Grootfontein welcomes families with children of all ages. Please note that the lodges and campsites are located within an unfenced private game reserve where wildlife roams freely. Children should be supervised at all times, particularly around the splash pools, rocky terrain and walking trails.

Question 5

What wildlife can I expect to see?

Accepted Answer

Grootfontein Private Nature Reserve is home to a variety of plains game including giraffe, zebra, kudu, eland, blue wildebeest, impala, nyala, bushbuck, duiker and warthog, as well as an abundance of birdlife. Wildlife sightings vary daily, making every visit unique.

Question 6

Is the water safe to drink?

Accepted Answer

Yes. The water throughout Grootfontein Private Reserve is safe to drink and swim in. Our natural spring water has been independently tested by the CSIR and meets drinking water standards.

Question 7

What should I bring?

Accepted Answer

As Grootfontein is a fully self-catering private nature reserve, we recommend shopping before you arrive. The nearest supermarkets are in Thabazimbi (approximately 30 minutes away).We recommend bringing:Food and drinksIce, charcoal and firelightersSwimming towelsToiletries, sunscreen and insect repellentComfortable walking shoesBinoculars and a cameraAll kitchens include cookware, crockery, cutlery, bedding, bath towels and braai utensils.Camping guests should also bring their own camping equipment, tents, bedding and camping essentials.

Question 8

What is there to do at Grootfontein?

Accepted Answer

Spend your days hiking, birdwatching, relaxing beside your private splash pool or wood-fired hot tub, enjoying a curated picnic basket, or joining one of our guided sundowner drives.If you’d like to explore further, Marakele National Park, Pilanesberg National Park, golf courses and scenic Waterberg attractions are all within easy driving distance.

Question 9

Is Grootfontein self-catering?

Accepted Answer

Yes. All accommodation at Grootfontein is fully self-catering with well-equipped kitchens and private braai facilities.Please remember to bring groceries, including pantry basics such as salt, pepper and cooking oil. The nearest restaurant is Café Meraki in Thabazimbi, approximately 30 minutes away.

Question 10

Is Grootfontein off the grid?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Our lodges are powered by solar energy, allowing you to enjoy a peaceful off-grid bush experience without sacrificing comfort.To protect our solar system, we kindly ask guests not to use high-powered appliances such as hairdryers, hair straighteners, electric blankets or other heating appliances.Accommodation includes gas cooking facilities and gas-heated showers (or paraffin showers in selected units).

Question 11

Is housekeeping included?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Complimentary housekeeping is available daily between 08:00 and 11:00.Please let us know if you’d like your unit serviced during your stay. Our team can wash dishes, sweep, refresh your accommodation and replenish firewood where required.

Question 12

Are pets allowed?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Matopos Cabin and Aloe Lodge are dog friendly,  there is no additional charge.Please let us know before arrival if you’ll be bringing your pet.

Question 13

Firewood

Accepted Answer

One complimentary wheelbarrow of firewood is included with every stay for your braai, boma or wood-fired hot tub (where applicable).Additional firewood is available for R70 per wheelbarrow. Please ask housekeeping or send us a WhatsApp if you’d like more.Please remember to bring your own charcoal and firelighters.

Question 14

Medical assistance

Accepted Answer

We keep a basic first-aid kit on the farm for minor injuries.The nearest hospital, pharmacy and medical practitioners are located in Thabazimbi, approximately 25 km away. Medirite Pharmacy014 777 8460Doctorhttps://www.mediclinic.co.za 014 777 1038/ 1296VetKransberg Dierekliniek064 518 3814Fire & EmergenciesJohann de Wet 072 019 4087

Question 15

Is Grootfontein in a malaria area?

Accepted Answer

No. Grootfontein Private Nature Reserve is malaria-free, making it an excellent destination for families and year-round bush getaways.

Question 16

Cancellation Policy

Accepted Answer

Should your plans change, please let us know as soon as possible.Our cancellation policy can be viewed in full on our booking terms. Where possible, we will always try to assist with date changes, subject to availability and the timing of your request.Booking cancelled / postponed with more than a months notice, forfeit 25% of the booking total.Booking cancelled / postponed with less than 21 days notice, forfeit 50% of the booking total.Booking cancelled / postponed with less than 7-14 days notice, forfeit 100% of the booking total.

Question 17

Can I book a sundowner drive?

Accepted Answer

Join us on a sundowner game drive through Grootfontein Private Reserve. The route passes through landmarks on the farm and a sundowner stop on Mount Mooi overlooking the great flats towards Botswana and the Waterberg biosphere. Light refreshments provided.Bring binoculars, a jersey and cameraR350 per person (minimum 4 guests)

Plan Your Stay

How do I get to Grootfontein?

Are pets allowed?

Is there Wi-Fi and cellphone reception?

Is Grootfontein family-friendly?

What wildlife can I expect to see?

Is the water safe to drink?

What should I bring?

What is there to do at Grootfontein?

Is Grootfontein self-catering?

Is Grootfontein off the grid?

Is housekeeping included?

Are pets allowed?

Firewood

Medical assistance

Is Grootfontein in a malaria area?

Cancellation Policy

Can I book a sundowner drive?