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An exclusive safari lodge with an infinity pool and private observatory in the spectacular Waterberg Mountains

Leobo Private Reserve, an exclusive 8,000-hectare estate in the Waterberg Mountains of South Africa, is home to The Observatory. This state-of-the-art four-bedroom villa, perched above the Palala Valley, offers a unique opportunity to reconnect with nature in a setting of unparalleled luxury.

Set on top of a hill and facing west to capture the setting sun, the villa offers the perfect setting to truly relax and enjoy the natural surroundings. A heated infinity pool seemingly spills into the valley below, and vast terraces stretch across the front of the villa. Whether it’s the fireside lounge on cooler evenings or the sun-drenched poolside decks, every corner of the villa is a sanctuary of relaxation.

Moreover, the villa boasts a roof terrace with a bubbling Jacuzzi and a cosy lounge area where guests can enjoy relaxed evening drinks under brilliant starry skies.

After a day of safari or exhilarating activities, the traditional boma is the perfect place to swap stories around the fire pit while enjoying a glass of local wine.

The vision of a distinguished architectural team, the Observatory villa is a masterpiece of design that has won multiple awards for its unique style. It takes its name from the seven-metre tower-shaped library, crowned with an automated rotating copper dome that houses a 20-inch telescope and even a solar scope.

At the heart of the villa is a spacious living area with a cosy sunken lounge around a fireplace, a hand-carved dining table, and a fully-stocked bar. The living areas also boast Satellite TV and a sound system, ensuring guests of all ages are entertained.

The villa can accommodate up to six adults in large double bedrooms plus three to four children in a kids’ bunk room. The bedrooms all have spectacular views and boast spacious en-suite bathrooms, open fireplaces, and a daybed for quiet relaxation.

For those seeking an authentic safari experience without compromising on luxury, The Observatory at Leobo Private Reserve is the perfect choice.

Highlights

Helipad

Helipad

Private Game Reserve

Private Game Reserve

Heated Swimming Pool

Heated Swimming Pool

Services

Included

Available extras

Enhance Your Stay with Personalised Services

After booking, your dedicated concierge will craft the perfect experience — tailored to your preferences. From everyday essentials to exclusive experiences, our curated add-ons elevate every villa stay.

Essential

Essential

Signature

Signature

Prestige

Prestige

Features

Indoor

Outdoor

Bedrooms

This property comfortably accommodates up to 9 guests in its 4 bedrooms.

Master Suite 1 – super-king-size bed, sitting area with fireplace, en-suite bathroom with bathtub & separate shower, and private terrace
Master Suite 2 – super-king-size bed, sitting area with fireplace, en-suite bathroom with bathtub & separate shower, and private terrace
Guest Room – super-king-size bed, sitting area with fireplace, en-suite bathroom with shower, and terrace access
Children’s Room – bunk beds (sleeps 3) + cot, en-suite bathroom with shower, and terrace access

Location

Disclaimer: the location on the map may be approximate due to privacy reasons.

About the area

Leobo Private Reserve is located in the Palala Valley in South Africa’s Waterberg Mountains. The area is a stunning natural playground just north of Johannesburg.

Though it may not be a “Big Five” area, there is still plenty of spectacular wildlife to be spotted on game drives and nature walks in the region.

Moreover, guests can indulge in a diverse range of daily activities and excursions. From quad- or dirt-bike safaris, kayaking, fishing, rock climbing, hiking, paintballing, clay pigeon shooting, to clifftop camping, there’s something for everyone!

Distances

Frequently asked questions

Inclusions vary by property but generally cover accommodation, cleaning services, and basic utilities. Some villas may also include additional services such as concierge, breakfast, or a private chef. Full details can be found on each villa’s page. If a service is not included in the price, our concierge team can arrange it for you, ensuring a fully personalised stay. Let us know your preferences, and we’ll take care of the rest!
Booking is simple! If you have a specific villa in mind, click "Send Enquiry" on its page. If you're considering multiple options, click the heart icon to save your favorites and send one enquiry for all of them. Our team will check availability and send you a detailed offer within 24 hours. Need help choosing? We’re happy to assist!
Yes, a deposit is required at the time of booking, typically 30% of the total amount. The remaining balance is usually due 30 to 90 days before check-in, depending on the property. Some villas may have different payment schedules, which will be specified in the offer we send you.
We accept bank transfers and major credit cards. Payment details will be provided during the booking process.
Yes, we offer a wide range of services, including in-villa options like private chefs, chauffeurs, and spa treatments, as well as activities such as yacht charters, wine tastings, and guided tours. We can also arrange experiences for the rest of your holiday, even beyond your villa stay. After booking, your dedicated concierge will contact you to customise your itinerary.
Yes, most high-end villas require a minimum stay of 7 nights, usually starting from a Saturday. However, many properties offer flexibility during certain times of the year, except for peak seasons like summer and Christmas holidays, which typically have stricter requirements. A smaller number of properties accept shorter stays year-round. If you have specific dates in mind, please contact us for availability.
Yes, we offer commission to travel agents booking on behalf of their clients. The commission amount varies by property, please contact us for specific details regarding a particular villa.

Have more questions?

Connect with our Villa Experts – we’ll handle the rest.

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From 37.500,00 USD per week, to price on request

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"Thank you My Private Villas for the outstanding service. Paolo Macchiaroli goes above and beyond to accommodate all our needs, making for an exquisite vacation."

— Sir Anthony Hopkins

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— Cristina March

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Best holiday ever!

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"The house was outstanding and exactly as described. Furthermore Francesca provided a very friendly, proactive and highly efficient follow-up on all the details we requested to make this our best family holiday ever."

— Simon Coombe

Wonderful villa in spectacular surroundings!

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"A very thorough approach to the process of advising on numerous points of detail raised by a 10 strong party whose ages ranged from 7 ti 69. Clear understanding of the facilities and services on offer and how they could be tailored to accommodate us all. Communications were clear and questions addressed promptly. Issue on arrival was dealt with promptly and to our satisfaction."

— Dennis

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