Mala Mala Game Reserve is one of South Africa’s oldest and best private game reserves. It is situated at the southern boundaries of the famous Sabi San Reserve, on the unfenced border with Kruger National Park, where it encompasses 33,000 acres of prime bushveld home to leopard, lion, rhino, cheetah, elephant, buffalo and more. Totally unfenced, guests at the reserve can travel freely between Mala Mala, the Sabi Sands Reserve and Kruger NP – as can the wildlife!
Mala Mala Game Reserve houses three high-end safari camps – Mala Mala Main Camp, Rattray’s on Mala Mala, and Sable Camp). Small and intimate, the Mala Mala camps range in size from 7 suites (Sable Camp) to 19 rooms (Main Camp). All are located on the western boundary of the reserve, with marvellous views over the Sand River. There are no camps in the eastern region of the reserve, just a vast tract of pristine wilderness, uninterrupted by major roads and open to only a limited number of visitors.
As a private reserve, Mala Mala Game Reserve allows for activities that are restricted within the national park, such as off-road 4x4 safaris and extended walking safaris. The guides employed are knowledgeable rangers with plenty of experience and an in-depth knowledge of the region.
Accommodation
Mala Mala Game Reserve offers a selection of camps:
Mala Mala Main Camp is the most substantial, with 19 rooms (8 luxury suites, 10 standard rooms and 1 single room). It has the character and appearance of a classic safari lodge, with its wide verandah overlooking the river, thatched rondavel guest rooms, romantic dining area with fireplace and traditional open-air boma shaded by an ancient Jackalberry tree. Other facilities include an infinity pool directly overlooking the river and plains, an air-conditioned bar and lounge, and a steam room.
Sable Camp is the smallest of the Mala Mala properties, with just seven luxury suites. It has a very similar design to Mala Mala Main Camp, only smaller and more compact. The thatched rondavels are identical to the large suites at Main Camp. The main public and viewing deck occupies an elevated position ensuring impressive views over the floodplain and river in front of the camp. There’s a small infinity pool with a view, as at Main Camp.
Rattray’s on Mala Mala takes its name from Mala Mala’s founder, Michael Rattray. The reserve’s flagship property, it’s a top-end colonial-style camp featuring eight luxury cottages, or khayas, all set in attractive gardens of bougainvillea on the edge of the Sand River. All of the rooms feature verandahs with private plunge pools, indoor and outdoor bathrooms, and private dining areas.
Facilities
Swimming pool
Generously-stocked wine cellar
Boma (Main Camp only)
Air-conditioned bar
Library
Fitness centre and steam room
Activities
4x4 game drives (day and night)
Walking safaris
Child Policy
Mala Mala Main Camp accepts children of all ages, though note that under 4s cannot join game drives unless a private vehicle has been booked (at additional cost). Reduced rates apply for under 12s when sharing a room.
Sable Camp accepts children aged 12 and over. Rattray’s on Mala Mala accepts children aged 16 and over.
