Malamala

MalaMala Game Reserve – Sabi Sand Private Game Reserve

MalaMala Game Reserve, the first private photographic safari destination in South Africa, offers an authentic African experience. Situated on the largest tract of land within the Sabi Sand Private Game Reserve and sharing a common boundary with the world famous Kruger National Park, MalaMala offers incredible sightings of Africa’s wildlife – including the Big Five (lion, leopard, elephant, rhino and buffalo), as well as a multitude of smaller creatures, in an environment that remains reflective of a time when man had yet to arrive. MalaMala Game Reserve is one of the largest private Big Five game reserves in South Africa. Comprising 33 000 acres, MalaMala shares a 12 mile unfenced border with the world-renowned Kruger National Park, and lies strategically sandwiched between the National Park and Sabi Sand Private Game Reserve. MalaMala offers three uniquely designed safari camps catering to your individual needs, each different in its atmosphere and offerings – MalaMala Camp, Sable Camp and Rattray’s Lodge. MalaMala Camp: Situated on the banks of the Sand River, this exceptional camp offers you stylish accommodations, exceptional

service and fantastic wildlife encounters. Luxurious thatched suites boast separate his and hers en-suite bathrooms, air-conditioning, personal bars and private decks which overlooks the meandering river. Enjoy delicious meals, which are accompanied by an excellent selection of South African wines in the breezy outdoor boma. Those in need of relaxation can sink into the cool depths of the sparkling swimming pool to escape the sweltering heat, or head to the well-stocked library to quietly enjoy a good book. The spacious sitting area leads onto an expansive wooden deck, where you can spend a delightful afternoon watching giraffe, elephant and buffalo amble over to the river to quench their thirst. A boutique store, private wine cellar and safari bar all add to MalaMala Camp. MalaMala Camp was designed to allow you to enjoy its spectacular setting from every vantage point.

Sable Camp: Situated at the southern end of the MalaMala Camp in a prime elevated position overlooking the Sand River and surrounding bush, Sable Camp is an ideal retreat for those who prefer privacy and exclusivity. The Sable Camp comprises just five luxury suites and the two bedroomed Lion’s Den. The fully air-conditioned, beautifully appointed Sable Camp has a truly colonial feel enhanced with modern comforts. At the main lodge, you’ll find an air-conditioned library, bar, dining room and expansive deck from where wildlife is often seen as they browse the Sand River’s bushy banks or have a drink. A swimming pool nestles in the floodplain at the foot of the Camp, and should you wish to use the fitness facility, there is one close by at MalaMala Camp.

The most exclusive of the three properties on the historic MalaMala Game Reserve, Rattray’s Lodge has just eight luxury suites. Each suite is resplendent with classic furnishings featuring leather, rattan, silver and oriental rugs, individual decks overlooking the river, and a private heated plunge pool. Lavish his-and-hers bathrooms in each suite have claw-footed tubs, indoor and outdoor showers and radiant floor heating. Common areas include a library with antique African books, an air-conditioned dining room and a convivial bar featuring photographs of the area’s early pioneers. Acclaimed cuisine is also served on the spacious wooden deck, which offers a superb wildlife-viewing experience in itself. A fully stocked wine cellar houses a selection of outstanding South African wines. Swim in the large infinity pool with views across the river, or stay in shape in the small gym, which includes a steam room.

With no boundary fences between the Sabi Sand and Kruger National Park, this reserve benefits from the great diversity of animals found in one of the richest wildlife areas on the African continent, along with the additional benefits experienced on a private game reserve. Game drives are conducted twice a day (early morning, and late afternoon/ evening) in open 4-wheel drive safari vehicles. The rangers are in constant radio communication with one another to keep each other informed about the location of wildlife. Headsets are used for this purpose so as not to interrupt the sounds of the African bush. The 4-wheel drive safari vehicles enable the rangers to leave the road and provide you with close up game viewing and fantastic photographic opportunities. Night drives, with the aid of powerful spotlights, bring the bush to life at night.

AT A GLANCE

  • MalaMala Camp - 11 air-conditioned thatched suites with private decks
  • MalaMala Camp - 8 air-condition thatched rooms with private decks
  • Sable Camp - 5 air-conditioned thatched suites with private decks
  • Sable Camp - 1 air-conditioned thatched Lion’s Den (two bedroomed) suite with private deck
  • Rattray’s Lodge - 8 stand-alone houses with private plunge pool, lounge/bar/library area and private verandas
  • En-suite bathrooms with indoor and outdoor showers
  • Swimming pool with a view at all camps
  • Open-air boma at all camps
  • Safari shop
  • Famed for leopard sightings
  • Big Five (lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo and rhino) game reserve shares unfenced borders with the Kruger National Park
  • Traversing rights over 39,600 acres (MalaMala 33,000 acres plus 6,600 traversing on Kirkman’s Kamp)
  • Wildlife includes cheetah, spotted hyena, various antelope, white rhino, giraffe and hippo to mention a few
  • Early morning and late afternoon game drives that continue after nightfall
  • Interpretive bush walks
  • Birdwatching
  • Massages available
  • All Inclusive: 3 meals daily, soft drinks, house wines, local brand spirits and beer, safari activities, laundry
  • Wi-Fi internet access in guest areas and suites
  • 220v AC power

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