Ngala Private Game Reserve was the very first private wildlife reserve to be established in the Kruger National Park, and it remains one of the best, offering its guests exclusive access to over 35,000 acres of Kruger bushveld in the game-rich Orpen sector of the Park. It forms part of the greater Timbavati Game Reserve.
The name Ngala translates as 'Place of the Lion', and Ngala is indeed famous for hosting one of the largest populations of lion in the Kruger. Among the other rarities present in the private Ngala Game Reserve is the elusive wild dog and rhino. Large buffalo and elephants herds also feature. This rich variety of game, combined with the lower overall visitor numbers, ensure that safaris at Ngala are always rewarding. Great guiding from the local rangers helps to complete the experience.
Ngala Private Game Reserve offers two accommodation options; the exclusive Ngala Tented Safari Camp, a stylish bush retreat with just nine tents, and the larger Ngala Lodge, which contains twenty one guest cottages. Both are upmarket properties. Ngala Tented Safari Camp offers that extra level of exclusivity, while Ngala Lodge is perhaps better suited to families. Ngala Camp has the better location, overlooking the Timbavati River (seasonal), while Ngala Lodge overlooks a frequented waterhole.
Update: Ngala Game Reserve has in recent years been amalgamated into the larger Timbavati Game Reserve, and now constitutes a private concession within the reserve.
Accommodation
The twenty one thatched safari cottages at Ngala Lodge are nestled beneath a grove of mopane trees, from where they overlook a nearby watering hole. They are spacious, sturdy structures, with amenities including air-con and bathroom en-suite with bath and shower. There is a larger safari suite ideal for honeymooners, and a family suite with its own pool, safari vehicle and dedicated guiding team.
Ngala Tented Safari Camp offers nine luxurious tented suites, furnished in a classic safari style, and with full en-suite facilities. The tents overlook the seasonal Timbavati River.
Dining
Fine meals are served in the boma or lantern-lit courtyard at the Lodge. At Ngala Camp, tasty bush meals served under the stars in the dry riverbed are the order of the day.
Facilities
- Swimming pool & lap pool
- Game viewing decks
- Dining areas
- Courtyard
- Boma
Activities
- Twice-daily game drives
- Walking safaris
- Stargazing
- Bush banqueting
Child Policy
Children are welcome at Ngala Lodge but cannot be accommodated at Ngala Tented Safari Camp unless over the age of twelve. There is a family suite at the lodge which is ideal for larger families.
