From the polo field in Ascona to the African wilderness: The Seven Group founder 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 team sponsor of the Ascona Polo Cup. Located 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 experiences a host through and through – whether on the sidelines, in the lounge, or right among the guests. But perhaps his greatest hosting story takes place about 9,000 kilometers south of Ascona, in the African bush. And this year, with the Saturday evening theme being "Welcome to the Jungle," there is likely no more fitting occasion to tell it.
The "Barefoot Bushman" and his dream
The story of Makumu begins with its founder: Stefan Breuer, simply called the 'Barefoot Bushman' by many. From a young age, he felt a deep connection to Africa's wilderness. Through many years of traveling and immersing himself, a realization grew: 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 simultaneously offering a deeply personal, authentic safari experience. Today, Makumu stands for 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 – amidst 60,000 hectares of untouched wilderness. What makes the lodge so special is its uncompromising exclusivity: with only one vehicle per 1,000 hectares, guests experience the wildlife – undisturbed and in absolute tranquility. No convoys, no crowds – just you, the wilderness, and the silence.
And then comes the evening. As the sun sinks below the horizon, the lodge comes to life in its own unique way: in the glow of 300 candles. A sight you don't describe – you experience it.
"Makumu": the home of endless expanses
In the Xitsonga language, "Makumu," the home of endless vistas, describes a boundless view over distant horizons. Situated high on 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 luxurious suites for a maximum of twelve guests. Each suite has its own 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 shaped by experiences that connect guests with the wilderness: safaris with experienced rangers, wildlife viewing from the unique underground photography bunker at the same level as the elephants' legs, and quiet hours at the Windmill Hide. Those seeking adventure can experience the landscape from above on spectacular helicopter or microlight flights. And the evenings? They belong to the starry sky – or a movie under the open sky at the Makumu Bush Cinema for exclusive bookings. Complemented by exquisite cuisine, South African wines, personalized service, and soothing massages: the perfect balance of luxury, nature, and personal discovery.
For special occasions, there are specially designed experiences – from the bunker photo package and the bush cinema experience to the honeymoon experience for newlyweds.
What connects Ascona and Makumu
Anyone who knows Stefan Breuer will immediately recognize his signature in Makumu: genuine 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 as a team sponsor for years. In polo as in the African bush, it is about connection, respect, and presence. About moments that last.
And anyone who has developed a taste for the real African bush after the jungle evening on Saturday now knows where to find it.
→ Discover more: www.makumu.com
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Makumu Private Game Lodge?
An exclusive safari lodge in the 60,000-hectare Klaserie Private Nature Reserve near Hoedspruit, South Africa – founded by Stefan Breuer, the 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 endless view over distant horizons – endless expanses. The lodge is situated high on a hill with an endless view over the African bushveld.
What experiences does Makumu offer?
Safaris with experienced rangers, wildlife viewing from the underground photography bunker, helicopter and microlight flights, the Bush Cinema under the stars, massages, and special packages – from photography experiences to honeymoon experiences.
Who is behind Makumu?
Stefan Breuer, known as the "Barefoot Bushman" – founder of the Seven Group and long-time team sponsor of the Ascona Polo Cup. Makumu is the realization of his African dream: a home in the African bush where nature and comfort exist in perfect balance.
