Originally intended as a cattle farm, MalaMala Game Reserve was turned into a game reserve in the 1920s due to the large population of big cats and other predators in the area. While the grounds of the lodge are meticulously maintained, the rest of the reserve is a completely un-spoilt natural paradise, having seen even less development and landscaping than other reserves in the area.
Honored as one of the Top Ten hotels worldwide on Fodor’s Choice 2006 list, MalaMala proudly represented Africa as the only African destination selected for this selection. In 2005, MalaMala was voted 2nd in the category “World’s Best Service” for Africa and the Middle East Travel & Leisure Magazine and in 2004 this spectacular safari destination was ranked 3rd ‘Best Safari Camp’ by Conde Nast Traveler. Need we say more? You are truly in for a pure safari experience of a lifetime.
Accommodation
MalaMala Game Reserve is home to two amazing camps, each uniquely designed and equipped with their own features.
MalaMala Base Camp
This camp is made up of 8 luxury suites as well as 10 luxury rooms, each with open (optional private) verandas with lounge chairs for game viewing from right in front of your suite. There is also a fully equipped disabled suite and ideally designed a family room for visitors with children. Babysitting service can be arranged with the camp staff on request and they will be more than happy to assist in any other way possible.
Sit back and relax and the historic safari-style bar at the Base Camp or enjoy the sunset while sipping cocktails on the large wooden safari deck. Massage services are available for guests who wish to enjoy a bit of pampering on their getaway or slip into the infinity swimming pool with spectacular river views. Enjoy the camp’s fully stocked bar and restaurant, gym, and air-conditioned library for the avid readers.
Sable Camp
Five luxury suites make up the Sable Camp at MalaMala. With the Lions Den suite with 2 bedrooms or a more family-friendly room, Sable Camp has gone out of their way to meet your needs as a safari traveler. There is 24-hour temperature control, a minibar, and safe in all of the suites.
Soak up the magnificent river and bushveld views from the wooden safari deck at the camp or indulge in a glorious massage and tour of the wine cellar. Sable camp is close to the fitness center and boutique located at the MalaMala Main Camp for the more active travelers. An air-conditioned library provides a wonderful space to sneak away to get lost amongst the pages of some of the finest selection of books around.
Activities
MalaMala Lodge offers a wonderful children’s activity program, full of fun activities and outdoor experiences for your little ones. This is such a great initiative that adds a lovely educational aspect to your whole family safari experience. MalaMala promises to ensure an authentic African safaris experience to their visitors and this is the ideal safari destination for budding or professional photographers. With morning and afternoon game drives, guided game walks and numerous bird watching activities you will definitely be able to experience a full-on day in the life of a safari adventurer. For a little bit of pampering and indulgence, massages and shopping at the safari boutique for clothes, jewelry and artifacts are popular past times at MalaMala Main Camp.
Access
Access is available by scheduled flight or by charter. Alternatively, MalaMala is an easy five-hour drive on national roads, or two hours from Nelspruit, which has its own small airport. A panoramic shuttle service is also available, for those wishing to take the scenic route.