Marakele National Park, South Africa: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2024]

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Ready to pack for Marakele National Park, South Africa? If you're planning to go to Marakele National Park, below is some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.

Contents

When to go to Marakele National Park, South Africa

Based on the climate and weather in Marakele National Park, South Africa, the best time to go is September. See below for details.

What to wear/what to pack for Marakele National Park, South Africa

Already know when you're traveling?

Here are some general tips on what to wear in Marakele National Park, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.

What to wear/what to pack for Marakele National Park, South Africa by month

January

January here is extremely warm. Temperatures average in the 70s F (mid 20s C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher. It rains a bit less than half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, South Africa has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing things recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Marakele National Park may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, M and N. Ensure that you get the necessary kind. The vast majority of adapters for sale now are just plugs and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should be appropriate for most countries.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck pillow

    A good option is this one

February

February in Marakele National Park is hot. Temperatures average in the 70s F (mid 20s C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher. It rains about a third of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, South Africa has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Marakele National Park may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, M and N. Ensure that you pick the correct kind. Most adapters currently sold are just plug changers and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most countries.

  • Travel pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this

March

Traveling to Marakele National Park in March, you will notice that it is a perfect temperature. Expect it to rain regularly. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the low 70s F (low 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, South Africa has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Marakele National Park may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, M and N. Ensure that you get the correct type. The majority of adapters currently sold are simply plug changers and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most areas.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

April

April here is a perfect temperature. Temperatures average in the high 60s F (high 10s C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher. It rains sometimes.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, South Africa has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Marakele National Park may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, M and N. Ensure that you pick the right type. The majority of adapters currently available are just plug changers and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most areas.

May

Traveling to Marakele National Park in May, you will notice that it very dry with almost no rain. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the low 60s F (mid 10s C). There is frost once in a while.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, South Africa has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Marakele National Park may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing things these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, M and N. Be sure to find the correct type. The majority of adapters currently available are simply plug changers and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one is sufficent for most countries.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this

June

If you are traveling to Marakele National Park in June, you will notice that it very dry with almost no rain. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the 50s F (low 10s C). There is frost a bit less than half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, South Africa has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Marakele National Park may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing things nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, M and N. Take care to choose the necessary type. The vast majority of adapters currently available are simply plugs and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one is sufficent for most locations.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

July

If you go to Marakele National Park in July, you will notice that it very dry with almost no rain. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the 50s F (low 10s C). There is frost a bit less than half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, South Africa has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Marakele National Park may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, M and N. Make sure to choose the correct type. Many adapters on sale are just plug changers and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one is sufficent for most areas.

August

August in this region very dry with almost no rain. Temperatures average in the low 60s F (mid 10s C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher. There is frost once in a while.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, South Africa has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Marakele National Park may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing luggage recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, M and N. Take care to get the necessary kind. A lot of adapters that you can buy are just plugs and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most places.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

September

If you go to Marakele National Park in September, you will notice that it dry with little rain. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the high 60s F (low 10s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, South Africa has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Marakele National Park may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, M and N. It's important that you get the correct type. A lot of adapters for sale now are simply plug changers and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most locations.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

October

If you go to Marakele National Park in October, you will notice that it is warm. Expect it to rain 5-10 days this month. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the low 70s F (low 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, South Africa has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Marakele National Park may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing bags these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, M and N. Make sure to choose the correct kind. Most adapters available online are simply plug changers and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one is sufficent for most areas.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

November

If you are traveling to Marakele National Park in November, you will notice that it is pretty consistently hot. Expect it to rain regularly. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the 70s F (low 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, South Africa has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Marakele National Park may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing things recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, M and N. Be sure to find the right kind. A lot of adapters available online are just plug changers and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most countries.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Travel neck support pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

December

If you are traveling to Marakele National Park in December, you will notice that it is extremely warm. Expect it to rain about a third of the time. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the 70s F (mid 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, South Africa has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Marakele National Park may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, M and N. Check that you pick the necessary type. Most adapters on sale are simply plug changers and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should be sufficient for most places.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel pillow

    A good option is this one

What to do in Marakele National Park, South Africa

Marakele National Park is one of the most popular tourist destinations in South Africa, attracting visitors from all corners of the globe throughout the year. Located in the Limpopo Province, this pristine conservation area offers some of the most breathtaking landscapes, diverse wildlife, and exciting outdoor activities that are sure to satisfy the wanderlust of every adventurer. With its incredible natural beauty and abundance of wildlife, Marakele National Park is undoubtedly a must-visit place for anyone travelling to South Africa.

Here are some of the top tourist attractions to explore during your trip to Marakele National Park:

1. The Wildlife

One of the key highlights of a trip to Marakele National Park is the incredible array of wildlife that can be found in the park, including elephants, rhinos, buffaloes, and lions. The park boasts over 70 mammal species, 400 bird species and 1,800 plant species. The best way to see the wildlife is either on a self-drive safari, a guided safari or on a walking safari. Note that walking safaris are possible only if you are accompanied by a park ranger.

2. The Scenery

Marakele National Park is home to some of the most stunning and diverse landscapes in the world. From soaring mountains to lush valleys, rocky outcrops to glistening waterfalls, there is no shortage of picturesque sights to discover in this park. The park also boasts a number of hiking trails, ranging from gentle strolls to more challenging treks, offering visitors an opportunity to explore the park's stunning scenery.

3. Tlopi Tented Camp

Tlopi Tented Camp is a modern, luxurious accommodation option for visitors to Marakele National Park. The camp is situated near the Mokolo River and offers a superb wilderness experience. Guests can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities, including game drives (during the day and night), guided walks, mountain biking, and bird watching.

4. The Cultural Village

Visitors to Marakele National Park can also explore the cultural village, which is situated near the park's entrance. This village offers a unique insight into the traditional lifestyle of the Bapedi people of Limpopo province. Tourists can discover the fascinating customs and beliefs of this vibrant community, which includes an interactive tour that involves playing traditional African games such as Mhele and Morabaraba.

5. The Waterfalls

Marakele National Park boasts several breathtaking waterfalls, the most famous being the two cascading waterfalls - The Kwaggasvlakte and Tlouwana Waterfalls. These waterfalls are an excellent spot for visitors to take a break from the heat and enjoy a refreshing dip in the water. The park also features several cascading streams and clear rivers that add to the beauty of the surroundings.

In conclusion, Marakele National Park is a must-visit destination for anyone travelling to South Africa. From incredible wildlife to stunning scenery and cultural excursions, there is something for everyone in this beautiful and diverse park. Whether you plan on hiking through the natural landscapes or witnessing the animals on a safari, Marakele National Park is sure to be an experience that you won't forget.

About your travel guide

Hi! I'm Dev. I've traveled all over the world and in my travels, I have made many packing lists. In this series, my team and I have compiled the most useful information, as well as things we couldn't live without, to help you plan your trip.

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