Shawu's Hide

A new marvel in Welgevonden

Our vibrant new luxury lodge in the Waterberg Biosphere
– a UNESCO world heritage site.

Welcome to Shawu’s Hide

A retreat rooted
in the heart of the wild.

Perched atop the Waterberg Biosphere – a UNESCO world heritage site – in Welgevonden Game Reserve, Shawu’s Hide offers front-row seats to the bushveld’s greatest spectacles. Nestled in one of the most remote and picturesque locations in the Waterberg region, our lodge provides an intimate escape where nature reigns supreme and adventure awaits. Here, the rhythm of the wild sets the pace, and every sunrise promises a new story.

Welgevonden Big 5 Game Reserve is a private, malaria-free reserve in South Africa’s Waterberg Biosphere and offers dramatic rolling hills, river valleys and diverse bushveld habitats. Home to abundant wildlife including the Big Five, cheetah and numerous bird species, it’s renowned for exceptional game viewing, conservation-driven management and luxury safari lodges set within stunning, unspoilt landscapes.

Shawu’s Hide is set on Stand 27 in Welgevonden Game Reserve and perched on a hilltop with sweeping reserve vistas. As the newest addition to the Mbazo Safari Collection, the lodge is currently undergoing a thoughtful revamp, and will open on 15/15/2026 as a luxury, all-inclusive retreat for up to 10 guests.

Discover dramatic Waterberg landscapes
and unrivalled wildlife viewing
from our exclusive hilltop retreat.

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    King Sized Bed

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    Freestanding Bath

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    Free Wifi

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    Reading Nook

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    Walk-in & Outdoor Shower

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    Fully Stocked Mini Fridge

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    Blackout Curtains

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    Complimentary Toiletries

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    Personal Safe

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    Shaded Veranda

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    Fresh Towels

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    Airconditioning & Ceiling Fan

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    Large Wardrobe

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    Hair Dryer

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    Free Parking

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    Gift Shop

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    Children Activities

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    Expert Wellness Therapists

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    Couples Massage

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    All Meals Included

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    Large Outdoor Boma

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    Pool with a View

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    Bar / Lounge Area

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    Twice Daily Game Drives

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    Sun Loungers & Towels

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    Handicap Friendly

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    Wine / Champagne

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    Outdoor Dining Area

1 January – 31 December

– R8 300 per person per night (Solo)
– R5 995 per person per night (Sharing)
*South African residents can contact reservations at bookings@mbazolodge.com or Tel: 010 109 4910 for rates for 2023

* Please make sure to read through all of our Lodge’s Terms & Conditions before making your booking.

Inclusions:

– Luxury accommodation; all meals daily; all teas/coffees; soft drinks; as well as a selection of beers, wines, and spirits.
– Two game drives each day which includes a pre-selection of beverages and snacks.
– Wi-Fi connection is provided.
– 15 % VAT is charged.

Exclusions

– Gratuities: premium beers, wines, and spirits.
– Mbazo Boutique purchases.
– Additional activities.
– Guided bush hikes (subject to availability of a guide).
– Black Rhino Reserve fees of R130 per person per day (subject to change without prior notice).
– Transports.
– Spa treatments.

* Please make sure to read through all of our Lodge’s Terms & Conditions before making your booking.

Children of all ages are welcome!

– Children 0 – 5 years stay on a complimentary basis when sharing with 2 full paying adults.
– Children 6 – 11 years stay at 50% of the per person sharing rate when sharing with 2 full paying adults. Please request a quote.
– Children 12 years and older pay the full adult rate and need to occupy their own room.
– A maximum of 2 children (0 – 11 years) may share a room with 2 adults.
– Children under 12 years are not able to join the game drives.
– A shorter Bumble-bee drive is available after the morning game drive for kids under 12.
– A private vehicle can be booked if travelling with children under 12 for longer private drives.

* Please make sure to read through all of our Lodge’s Terms & Conditions before making your booking.

Check-In:
14:00
Check-Out:
11:00

* Please make sure to read through all of our Lodge’s Terms & Conditions before making your booking.

Why Shawu’s Hide?

An invigorating
safari experience.

An intimate, restorative safari experience combining Mbazo’s refined design language, exclusive service and the raw energy of Welgevonden’s Big Five terrain — created for families and small groups who want privacy, comfort and exceptional guiding.
Origin Distance Drive Time
OR Tambo Int. Airport 300–330 km 3.5–4 hrs
Johannesburg 250–280 km 3–3.5 hrs
Pretoria 180–200 km 2–2.5 hrs