January began gently, with all the promise of a classic summer in the bush, and then the heavens truly opened. What followed was one of the wettest Januaries the area has experienced in over 40 years.
The rain arrived… and simply kept coming. Dry riverbeds that hadn’t carried water in years stirred back to life, first with a trickle, then with streams carving their way through the landscape, until they became flowing rivers once again. Dams reached levels we had never seen before, and some of our most-loved coffee and sundowner stops, places where we’ve shared countless special moments with guests, disappeared beneath the water.
The impact was felt across the reserve. Roads were heavily affected, and navigating the bush became an adventure in itself. Now, as the skies have cleared, the rain has eased, and water levels have dropped, the bush is returning to its familiar rhythm.
Normality has settled back in, but January left us with a powerful reminder: nature moves to its own rhythm, on its own terms, and when it does, it leaves us humbled, inspired, and in awe.
Click here to view our video on the flood
Major Upgrades, Same Heart
Over the past few months, we’ve transformed some key spaces around Makanyi to make your stay even more special. These upgrades aren’t just cosmetic improvements, they were made with the intention of enhancing comfort, connection, and relaxation in meaningful ways. Our bar area, always a favourite gathering spot for post-safari storytelling, has undergone a complete refurbishment. It’s still the beating heart of the lodge, where guests swap sightings and share the day’s adventures, now refreshed with a beautiful new look and atmosphere. Our spa has also been fully reimagined. Now housed in its own dedicated building with two private treatment rooms, it offers a serene and immersive setting for rest and rejuvenation.
We can’t wait to welcome you back and share these beautiful new spaces. More updates to follow in future newsletters.
Guest Highlight: A Life-Changing Stay
“Had an absolutely amazing time at Makanyi! Huge shoutout to Sakkie and the team for making the trip unforgettable and keeping us safe. If you’re going, I highly recommend asking for them as guides. Johannes was so attentive, walking us to our room each night, the barman blew us away with surprise drinks, and Cecilia’s cheerfulness made every day brighter. Truly a life-changing experience, I can’t recommend it enough!
P.S. You need to book a massage, the girls are amazing. Also, special shoutout to housekeeping, especially with special events, they pull it out of the bag every single time.”
~ Sarah C – TripAvisor.