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MalaMala Game Reserve

One of South Africa’s great private reserves, with three camps on the Sand River and some of the most reliable Big Five viewing in the country.

Greater Kruger

Overview

MalaMala is one of the most famous names in African safari, and one of the largest private Big Five reserves in South Africa. Its 13,500 hectares run along the Sand River and share an unfenced border with the Kruger. Game viewing is the whole point here. There’s long river frontage, guests are capped across the property, and guides can follow animals off-road, which together give some of the most reliable leopard, lion and elephant sightings in the country. There are three camps, all on the river, each with a different feel: MalaMala Camp for families and first-timers, Sable Camp for a smaller, more private stay, and Rattray’s for the most exclusive, adults-focused experience.

At a Glance

  • Type: Private game reserve with three safari camps

  • Location: Sabi Sand area, Greater Kruger, on the Sand River

  • MalaMala Camp: 18 rooms (twin, double, suites, family rooms and a wheelchair-accessible suite). All ages welcome

  • Sable Camp: 7 suites, with a maximum of 20 guests. Children 12+ (any age if you book the whole camp)

  • Rattray’s: 8 private suites, each with a heated plunge pool and outdoor shower. Guests 16+. Maximum 4 guests per vehicle

  • Included: All meals, local drinks, two game drives a day, nature walks, airstrip transfers

  • Facilities at every camp: Pool, gym, boma, bar, massage room

  • Malaria: Malaria area. Speak to your doctor before travelling

  • Best for: Serious game viewers, families (MalaMala Camp), couples and honeymooners (Rattray’s)

Activities & Dining

Game drives run in the early morning and late afternoon in open 4×4 vehicles: up to six guests at MalaMala and Sable Camps, and four at Rattray’s. Guides drive off-road to follow sightings and use radio contact across the reserve. Guided nature walks are included. Private vehicles can be booked at every camp, so you can stay out as long as you like at a sighting.

Meals are generous and served on the deck, indoors or in the boma under the stars, with a selection of local drinks included. Rattray’s adds a wine cellar, a library and dining on your own verandah. MalaMala Camp’s Junior Ranger programme, movies and games keep younger children busy between drives.

Getting There

  • By air (recommended): MalaMala has its own airstrip, and transfers to your camp are included. The transfer is short and often doubles as your first game drive.

  • By road: About 6 hours from Johannesburg, entering the Sabi Sand through Shaw’s Gate. We can arrange a private transfer.

Insider Tips

  • Choose your camp by who’s travelling: MalaMala Camp for families, Sable for a quieter group stay, and Rattray’s for couples who want the most privacy.

  • Book a private vehicle if you’re a keen photographer. You’ll set your own pace at sightings.

  • Book Rattray’s well ahead for July and August. With only eight suites, it fills up early.

  • Groups of 14–20 can take over Sable Camp exclusively, and then children of any age are welcome.

  • Stay at least three nights. It gives you the best chance of the whole Big Five, plus time to enjoy the river.

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