About Shamba Yetu Mountain Lodge - Our Story & Heritage
Discover the history and heart of Shamba Yetu, a family legacy built on a love for Africa and the Magaliesberg. From bare bushveld to mountain retreat, this is our story.
ABOUT SHAMBA YETU
A Haven of Peace and Tranquility
Set against a backdrop of lush vegetation and mountainous hills, Shamba Yetu is a haven of peace and tranquility, intended to give you a private and boutique experience. The farm is situated between Magaliesburg and Rustenburg, just off the R24.
With the beautiful Magaliesberg Mountains surrounding us, this is an idyllic place for a getaway where you can appreciate wildlife, birds, beautiful views and get in touch with nature. A mountain retreat that will truly have you feeling on top of the world.
WHAT WE OFFER
Accommodation Options
Shamba Yetu offers accommodation options including:
Self-Catering Chalets (Sungura and Punda Melia)
Fully equipped units with proper kitchens, comfortable bedrooms, and private patios. Smart TVs, free Wi-Fi, splash pools, and daily service.
Camp Nguvu - Luxury En-Suite Safari Tents
- Tent 1 (Twiga): Sleeps 2 with 1 queen bed
- Tent 2 (Tandala): Sleeps 4 with 1 queen bed and 2 single beds
- En-suite bathrooms, fully equipped kitchenettes, splash pools (galvanized)
- Self-catering with gas cooking
Camping Site at Camp Nguvu
5 camping stands for caravans, camping trailers and tents. Each stand has electrical point, light and braai stand. Shared ablution and wash-up area. Ideal for the off-road camper.
Camp Nguvu, comprising of two luxury well-equipped en-suite tents and the camping site, offers you the splendour of natural bushveld with breathtaking sunsets and a tranquil African bush environment.
WHAT'S PROVIDED
In Self-Catering Units:
- Linen and towels provided
- Daily service included
- Free Wi-Fi available
- Smart TVs
- Gas stoves and lamps for load shedding
- Electric blankets during winter
Please Note:
- Friendly farm dogs on site
- Access via maintained dirt road
- Two-plate gas stove and gas kettle provided
- Gas lamps for adequate lighting during power outages
- Bring your own swimming towels
THE HISTORY OF SHAMBA YETU
A Legacy Built on Love for Africa
Shamba Yetu started in 1997 when Costa (known as Marc), Ann and Fiona Marcandonatos acquired 220 hectares of bare bush between Magaliesburg and Rustenburg.
Marc's African Heritage
Marc was born on the foothills of Kilimanjaro in what was formerly Tanganyika. He loved Africa deeply. After leaving Tanganyika in 1960, he met Ann in South Africa where they settled. Marc was fluent in Swahili and a proud African. The name "Shamba Yetu" translates from Swahili to "Our Place" - a fitting name for their family retreat.
A Labour of Love
Shamba Yetu became a weekend getaway from their lives in Johannesburg where Marc and Ann ran their business and Fiona practiced law. The original roads were hand hewn by Marc and Fiona, with Ann providing beverages and sandwiches during the work. Every path and structure was built with their own hands and vision.
Over the years, Shamba Yetu developed with passion and love into what exists today. It became a place of escape for them – and now an escape for others seeking peace in the mountains.
Continuing the Legacy Regrettably, Marc and Ann are no longer with us, but Fiona continues their legacy. When you visit Shamba Yetu, you’re experiencing the culmination of a family’s dream, built over decades with love for Africa and respect for the land.
OUR PHILOSOPHY
Respect for the Land
From Marc and Fiona’s hand-hewn roads to current conservation efforts, we’ve always approached this land with respect. Development has been thoughtful and sustainable.
Authentic Experiences
We offer authentic bushveld experiences – sounds at night, birds in the morning, stars overhead. Self-catering freedom, comfortable beds, proper facilities, with nature at the forefront.
Personal Touch
As a family-run establishment continuing a family legacy, we understand personal service. This is “Our Place” that we share with guests.
Conservation Commitment
Being next to the Magaliesberg Biosphere Reserve, we are committed to protecting our environment and wildlife. Guided game drives only, respect for animal habitats, sustainable practices.
BOOK YOUR STAY
Experience Our Legacy
Come and experience what Marc, Ann and Fiona built – a peaceful mountain retreat where you can reconnect with nature and create your own memories in “Our Place.”
WhatsApp: 061 030 9066
Phone: 084 912 3773
Chat to us about dates and availability
Email: bookings@shambayetu.co.za
We’ll respond within 24 hours with availability and rates
Ask About:
- Midweek specials
- Longer stay discounts
- Which chalet suits your needs
- Activity bookings
Frequently Asked Questions
“Shamba Yetu” is Swahili for “Our Place” – named by Marc Marcandonatos, who was born on the foothills of Kilimanjaro and was fluent in Swahili.
Yes. Fiona Marcandonatos continues the legacy started by her parents, Marc and Ann, in 1997.
Shamba Yetu comprises 220 hectares of bushveld in the Magaliesberg.
The property was acquired in 1997 and developed over the years by the Marcandonatos family.
Many of the original roads created by Marc and Fiona are still in use today as part of the property’s trail system.