Mala Mala game reserve offers the best game viewing in South Africa. At 33,000 acres it is the largest area of private land adjoining the world famous Kruger National Park and is the largest privately owned game reserve in South Africa with human density and impact on the land being kept to an absolute minimum.
Mala Mala opened in 1962 and was one of the first tracts of private land to stop hunting.
This area is known to have the greatest diversification of animal species on the African continent. Over two hundred different species occur in abundance whilst the ever changing bird life provides even the most experienced ornithologist with rare finds. Another reason is the unfenced border between Mala Mala Game Reserve and the Kruger National Park, which allows herds of animals to migrate unhindered to the perennial Sand River which flows north to south through the Mala Mala Game Reserve for 20 kilometres or 13 miles. Large elephant and buffalo herds cross onto Mala Mala in this way.
Mala Mala Main Camp is an outstanding four star luxury option for those who want to experience game that pumps at a very affordable price. We believe that in terms of value for money you can't beat it.
Rattray's, also on the Mala Mala game reserve, offers a more exclusive and lavish experience.
Understated luxury and tranquillity are synonymous with each of the 18 rooms at Mala Mala Main Camp (including a disabled unit and family rooms). Each room is furnished with every amenity, including "his" and "hers" bathrooms, 24 hour temperature control, mini bar, room safe and a private deck with magnificent panoramic views of the surrounding bush.
Dinner, where one may enjoy venison specialties and haute bush cuisine is served in the grand old African manner, under the stars in a reed enclosed boma, a Mala Mala tradition for over 60 years. Seated around a log fire, under the starry African sky, enjoying superb food and outstanding South African wines is yet another highlight of the Mala Mala experience.
Guests can relax in the Buffalo lounge which leads onto a large wooden deck that provides elevated views of animals watering in the Sand River below. There is a swimming pool, a complimentary laundry service, and wine cellar, bush gym, bar, library and safari boutique.
Safaris are conducted in open four by four wheel drive vehicles which allows for total freedom of movement and the ability to leave the road and track down Africa's "Big Five" - Lion, Leopard, Rhino, Elephant and Buffalo. After dark, spotlight safaris provide the opportunity to view nocturnal creatures and carnivores on the hunt and walking safaris with an armed ranger can be arranged on request. The success of safaris at Mala Mala can be measured by the fact that in 2006 the "Big 5" were recorded on all but 23 days.
Most guides have University degrees in the sciences. Apart from conducting informative game drives, the ranger is the guests' host for the duration of their stay and can impart knowledge of Africa that enthrals, enlightens and entertains.
A stay at Mala Mala Main Camp combines perfectly with a visit to Pafuri Camp and Mashatu. In fact this would be a perfect South African circuit!
Mala Mala is approximately five and a half hours by road from Johannesburg. There is a direct daily scheduled flight from Johannesburg to the Mala Mala game reserve which takes an hour. Private charters are also available.