MalaMala Main Camp 

A community owned camp with unfiltered wildlife

MalaMala Game Reserve was the first privately owned game reserve in South Africa.

MalaMala is a wildlife haven, largely due to its 13 miles of Sand River frontage. This perennial river attracts an abundance of wildlife including cheetah, Cape hunting dog and the Big Five. Upon arrival you will be met by your ranger who will be your wildlife guide and host. With only one vehicle per 2,350 acres, the safari traffic is among the lowest in any private game reserve in the country.

After an early morning game drive, return to the camp for brunch. Afterwards there is time for a bush walk, a siesta, a dip in the pool or perhaps you would prefer to explore the old photographs and maps that can be found throughout the camp. Mid-afternoon, gather for snacks and drinks before heading out on safari, accompanied with a cool box of drinks. As day turns into night, return to camp looking for predators as they become more active on their nightly prowls. Dinner is usually served in the reed boma or under the stars overlooking the river.

Why we love MalaMala Main Camp

  • The unbeatable location is right on the unfenced border of Kruger National Park

  • MalaMala was the first private game reserve to replace hunting with photographic safaris

  • Visit the Buffalo Bar to see photographs of the early days of MalaMala

  • MalaMala is home to one of the densest populations of leopard so there's a good chance you may see one on your game drive

Located between the unfenced border of the Kruger National Park and the Sabi Sands Reserve, MalaMala Game Reserve is set on 33,000 acres
There are daily flights from Johannesburg to MalaMala’s private airstrip, a 10-minute drive from the camp. It is a 1-hour drive from Skukuza Airport to the camp

Facilities

  • Restaurants & bars
  • Spas & wellness
  • Activities
  • Good to Know

Meals take place in the air-conditioned dining room or in the traditional reed boma around the fire.

There's a small fitness room with a multi-gym machine and stationary bike. Massages can also be arranged.

A typical day starts with an early morning game drive. After returning to camp for brunch you can relax or take a guided bush walk. The afternoon game drive includes a stop for sundowners and finishes with a night drive in search of the nocturnal creatures.

Children under the age of 5 are not permitted on game drives or in the dining boma.

All Hotels in Greater Kruger Game Reserves

  • Greater Kruger Game Reserves
  • 4 Star

A romantic and intimate tented haven in the bush with tailored wildlife experiences.

  • Kapama Private Game Reserve
  • 4 Star

This lodge epitomises modern African luxury on the riverbend of the seasonal Kapama River.

  • Lion Sands Game Reserve
  • 5 Star

Lion Sands’ ultra-luxurious flagship lodge is found in the exclusive Sabi Sand Game Reserve.

  • Greater Kruger Game Reserves
  • 4 Star

A friendly lodge in the Makalali Private Game Reserve west of Kruger National Park.

  • Thornybush Private Game Reserve
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This lodge focuses on offering families a safari that’s all about modern comforts.

  • Greater Kruger Game Reserves
  • 4 Star

Little Garonga Safari Lodge is an intimate property nestled within the Greater Makalali Private Game Reserve.

  • Greater Kruger Game Reserves
  • 5 Star

This camp is renowned for its sophisticated surroundings and passionate service.

  • Greater Kruger Game Reserves

MCH Private Tented Camp is an intimate property nestled within the Greater Makalali Private Game Reserve.

  • Greater Kruger Game Reserves
  • 5 Star

This bold and luxurious lodge is found on the banks of the Sabie River in the iconic Kruger National Park.

  • Greater Kruger Game Reserves

Set on 6,000 hectares, Jock Safari Lodge was the first private concession in Kruger National Park and is the ideal base to immerse yourself in nature.

  • Greater Kruger Game Reserves
  • 5 Star

The pinnacle of luxury accommodation in Kapama Private Game Reserve.