WELCOME TO
Mackaya Bella Country Lodge
Mackaya Bella Country Lodge is an owner run country lodge, situated within the Ukhahlamba Drakensberg Mountain Range, the highest range in South Africa. Due to its diversity of bird, plant and insect life and a vast collection of San Rock Art paintings, the area has been declared a World Heritage site.
Mackaya Bella Country Lodge is nestled below this unique mountain range. Time slows down as you enter our gate and a deep sense of peace and relaxation prevails, promising for a restful stay.
From the main lodge one can enjoy spectacular views of Cathkin Peak, Champagne Castle, Monks Cowl and Dragons Peaks, one of the best views of these mountains.
The Sterkspruit River meanders along the flood plan below the Lodge, offering crystal pools for hikers and swimmers to cool off during the hot summer months. This area is steeped in the history of the San and the Nguni people.
We have two short hikes on the property taking guest into a unique and diverse natural environment. Two hundred year old yellow wood trees still grow in the local forest. Tree cutting pits used by the Boer settlers can be seen on the hike to Moonies Pool. The lodge is very close to the Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife Monks Cowl Reserve, about a 20 minute drive from the lodge. Here guest enter the main World Heritage Site.
From there guest can hike to Stable Cave, Zulu Cave, the Sterkspruit Falls, the Gorge, iNandi falls or up the Sphinx and onto the little berg. Day hikes and walks range from an hour round trip to six hours. At the Park Entrance hikers must pay an entrance fee.
Wild life often spotted around the Lodge include, Baboon, monkeys, bush pig, klipspringer, Rhebok, Jackal, Porcupine, otter, zebra etc.
Locals speak of sighting the “Shy Leopard” in the mountain thicket.
Most evening we hear the Jackals call from the foothills around the Lodge.
Mackaya Bella is a bird lover’s paradise
Our dream is to live gentle upon the surface of the earth.
We are dedicated to conservation and follow eco-friendly principles. Cathkin Valley is in the heart of Central Drakensberg. Mackaya Bella Lodge is an easy drive from Johannesburg / Durban/Bethlehem
Come share in this paradise!
“The Drakensberg is really spectacular, I can’t believe more people don’t know about it!”
FERN CRAMPTON
Beautiful
FACILITIES
“We absolutely loved all the locally sourced produce used in the meals!”
TIM HULME
LATEST
Activities
Hiking
Some of the best hiking in the world. Both over night and day hikes catering for all fitness and experience levels.
Outdoor activities
Mountain bike cycling tracks, Zipline canopy tours, River rafting, horse riding.
Scenic aerial tours
Helicopter, Gliding, and Hot air balloon experiences.
Relax & Unwind
Promising you a restful stay.
Disclaimer: Rooms are subject to availability. Rates are quotations only and may be subject to change. Right of Admission reserved.
All rates are quoted in South African Rands (ZAR) and subject to the applicable law in the Republic of South Africa.
Mackaya Bella Country Lodge is an Afristay Valued Member