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.
Rattray's offers an exclusive and lavish experience on the Mala Mala game reserve. It represents a classical "into Africa" safari experience in keeping with Mala Mala's history of presenting an authentic view of wildlife in Africa to the discerning traveller.
For those that want an outstanding four star option at a very affordable price still on the Mala Mala game reserve we would highly recommend Mala Mala Main Camp.
At Rattray's are eight comfortable suites each occupying its own elevated site with magnificent views overlooking the Sand River and his and hers bathrooms. Filtered plunge pools complete each of the secluded verandas and an outdoor dining area and private garden provides the ideal vantage point from which to enjoy bush cuisine in complete privacy. Each guest has the choice of remaining connected to the outside world from the sanctuary of their room via continuous internet connectivity (512k wireless link via satellite connection) and satellite television.
This camp has a 16 year old age limit.
Facilities within the main elegant building at Rattray's incorporate a viewing deck, an air-conditioned library providing a refuge for the literary devotee, an attractive bar showcasing the history of the area and an adjoining wine cellar stocked with a wide range of South Africa's best wines. There is a dining room with adjoining covered deck for outdoor dining as well as a swimming pool, massage room and gymnasium.
Breakfast and lunch at Rattray's are served in the air-conditioned dining room or on the adjoining deck whilst the traditional reed boma under a magnificent jackalberry tree is the ultimate outdoor evening venue. The cuisine is outstanding.
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. At Rattray's there are only four guests per vehicle.
Most guides at Mala Mala 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 Rattray's would combine perfectly with a visit to either of the Singita's – Singita Private Game Reserve or Singita Lebombo Concession – what a mind blowing South African safari that would be!
Rattray's 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.