From the Ascona polo field to the African wilderness: the founder of the Seven Group and his passion project in the Klaserie Private Nature Reserve
Makumu Private Game Lodge is the African passion project of Stefan Breuer, founder of the Seven Group and sponsor of the Ascona Polo Cup team. In the heart of the 60,000-hectare Klaserie Private Nature Reserve in South Africa, the lodge combines luxury with untouched wilderness: only six suites, one vehicle per 1,000 hectares, and evenings where 300 candles bring the lodge to life.
Anyone who meets Stefan Breuer at the Ascona Polo Cup discovers a host through and through, whether on the sidelines, in the lounge, or among the guests. But perhaps his greatest hospitality story takes place about 9,000 kilometers south of Ascona, in the African bush. And this year, with the motto for Saturday evening being «Welcome to the Jungle», there is no better occasion to tell it.
The «Barefoot Bushman» and his dream
The story of Makumu begins with its founder: Stefan Breuer, called by many simply the "Barefoot Bushman". From a young age, he felt a deep connection to the African wilderness. After many years of travel and immersion, a realization matured: freedom and authenticity are not experiences, they are a way of being.
From this deep love for the African bush, a dream was born, as simple as it is profound: to create a place where nature and comfort exist in perfect balance. A sanctuary that celebrates the warmth, textures, and soul of Africa, while offering a deeply personal and authentic safari experience. Today, Makumu represents exactly this vision: a place where guests feel at home.
The lodge that comes to life at night with 300 candles
Makumu Private Game Lodge is located in the heart of the Klaserie Private Nature Reserve near Hoedspruit, South Africa, nestled in 60,000 hectares of pristine wilderness. What makes the lodge so special is its uncompromising exclusivity: with only one vehicle per 1,000 hectares, guests experience wildlife undisturbed and in absolute tranquility. No queues, no crowds: just you, the wilderness, and the silence.
And then comes the evening. As the sun sets behind the horizon, the lodge comes to life in its own unique way: by the glow of 300 candles. A spectacle that cannot be described, it must be experienced.
«Makumu»: the home of endless vistas
In the Xitsonga language, «Makumu», the home of endless vistas, describes a boundless view of distant horizons. Situated on top of a hill, the lodge offers exactly that: a view over the African Bushveld that fills guests with the ancient spirit of the African wilderness.
Intimate and exclusive: only six luxury suites for a maximum of twelve guests. Each suite has its own unique character, inspired by the rich heritage of South Africa's tribes: three King Suites and three Impi Suites, thematically dedicated to the Bushman, Ndebele, and Zulu cultures. Contemporary luxury meets authentic African design.
Experiences that stay with you
Every stay at Makumu is characterized by experiences that connect guests with the wilderness: safaris with expert rangers, animal watching from the exclusive underground photographic bunker at elephant-foot level, and hours of silence at the Windmill Hide. Those seeking adventure can admire the landscape from above with spectacular helicopter or microlight flights. And the evenings? They are dedicated to the starry sky – or a movie under the stars at the Makumu Bush Cinema for exclusive bookings. Added to this are fine dining, South African wines, personalized service, and relaxing massages: the perfect balance between luxury, nature, and personal discovery.
For special occasions, specially created experiences are available: from the photographic package in the bunker to the Bush Cinema experience, up to the Honeymoon Experience for newlyweds.
What connects Ascona and Makumu
Anyone who knows Stefan Breuer immediately recognizes his signature in Makumu: authentic hospitality, love for people and animals, uncompromising quality, and the conviction that these are the most beautiful moments to share. It is the same attitude he has brought to Ascona for years as a team sponsor. Whether in polo or in the African bush, the principle is the same: it is about connection, respect, and presence. About moments that last.
And anyone who, after Saturday's jungle evening, wants to discover the real African bush, now knows where to find it.
→ Learn more: www.makumu.com
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Makumu Private Game Lodge?
An exclusive safari lodge located in the 60,000-hectare Klaserie Private Nature Reserve near Hoedspruit, South Africa, founded by Stefan Breuer, founder of the Seven Group and team sponsor of the Ascona Polo Cup.
What makes Makumu so exclusive?
Only six suites for a maximum of twelve guests and only one vehicle per 1,000 hectares: guests experience the wildlife undisturbed and in absolute tranquility. In the evening, the lodge comes to life in the glow of 300 candles.
What does the name "Makumu" mean?
In the Xitsonga language, "Makumu" describes an infinite gaze over distant horizons: endless expanses. The lodge is situated on top of a hill with an infinite view of the African Bushveld.
What experiences does Makumu offer?
Safaris with expert rangers, animal watching from the underground photo bunker, helicopter and microlight flights, the Bush Cinema under the stars, massages, and special packages: from the photography experience to the Honeymoon Experience.
Who is behind Makumu?
Stefan Breuer, known as the "Barefoot Bushman": founder of the Seven Group and long-time sponsor of the Ascona Polo Cup team. Makumu is the realization of his African dream: a home in the African bush, where nature and comfort exist in perfect balance.
