Mala Mala Game Reserve
Hotel
The oldest and most famous Private Game Reserve of Africa, the Mala Mala Game Reserve, was named after the Sable Antelope. In the native’s language the proud animal is called “Mala Mala”.
Expanding over more than two hundred square kilometres and bordering the world-renowned Kruger National Park, the Mala Mala teems with wildlife and is one of the most densely populated regions of southern Africa.
For more than thirty years the many species inhabiting this unspoilt paradise have been read more » cared for by dedicated rangers who take pride in introducing the wonders of nature to the reserve’s guests. Every visitor is almost guaranteed to spot South Africa’s Big Five at close range.
The Mala Mala’s diversity of species is simply stunning. Countless species inhabit the park, among them birds, big game and rare mammals. The reserve’s accommodation options match nature’s diversity. Guests may choose between three extremely comfortable lodges.
The Mala Mala’s Main Lodge is a classic, elegant safari camp breathing and living traditions with a touch of nostalgia. The lodge’s central meeting point is the viewing platform, perfect for spotting the wildlife on the wide plains shaped by the Sand River.
The first-class restaurant is also located on the platform, spicing up the delicacies with the magnificent view of the savannah. Savour the fine food and the sensational sights.
On a fine night, experience a romantic open-air dinner in the style of a traditional boma around the campfire. The well-stocked bar invites to take a drink and share personal safari adventurous with other guests. Two beautifully set pools are available to take a refreshing dip.
The secluded and small Sable Camp is the ideal hideaway for guests seeking quite privacy. With only 14 suites, the number of guests is limited. Majestically overlooking the Sand River, the camp mirrors the quaint charm of colonial days.
A central fireplace framed by elephant tusks and selected artefacts create an authentic atmosphere of the old times. At night, oil lamps bathe the chalets and paths in a golden light blending with the silver shimmer of the stars.
The recently added “Rattray’s on Mala Mala” is the Mala Mala’s most exclusive camp and the ultimate showcase of top accommodation in the African bush. Featuring only eight superb suites, the Rattray’s ensures privacy, only nature’s inhabitants are your next door neighbours.
The Rattray’s is an elegant melting pot of African culture, colonial flair and contemporary design. Each suite features a private pool deck commanding undisturbed views of the pristine nature with the river as the centrepiece.
Transfers to this remote paradise are organised via the Johannesburg airport. The last leg of the journey to the Mala Mala Game Reserves takes approximately one and a half hours.
Living
The Mala Mala Game Reserve accommodations are divided into three camps. Thus privacy is ensured and no big complexes disfigure the beautiful savannah. Guests may choose between the Mala Mala Main Camp,
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the secluded Sable Camp and the latest addition, the exclusive “Rattray’s on Mala Mala Camp”.
Across the camps, the high standard of the comfortable and elegant rooms is suitable to please even the most discerning guest. The Main Camp features a total of twenty five luxury rooms offering lodgings for up to fifty guests.
The rooms have a twin or double set-up, family suites, triples and a suite designed for guests with special needs complete the range of accommodations. A unique feature are the bathrooms especially for “her” or for “him”.
The bathrooms are fully equipped with soft bathrobes, shampoos and beauty products, a hair-dryer and heated towel racks. Insect screens are installed on all windows and doors. The mini bar conveniently stocks small snacks and cold drinks. Newspapers and magazines of the day are available.
At some distance, near the southern end of the Mala Mala Game Reserve, the Sable Camp’s remote location guarantees privacy and exclusiveness. No more than fourteen guests are accommodated in the five luxurious suites and the “Lions Den“, a double bedroom suite for four featuring a spectacular view.
The Sable Camp’s ingenious concept skilfully combines colonial ambience with modern comforts. Apart from the nostalgic setting, the room’s features match those of the Main Camp.
The Rattray Camp was reopened as recently as November 2005 and also spans an elegant bridge between a quaint colonial style and state of the art luxury. The finely appointed eight suites have all been accommodated in individual cottages and feature both a lounge and separate sleeping quarters.
The suites bathrooms are extremely spacious. The private pool, the powerful air-conditioning and the generous terrace are comforts to be expected at one of Africa’s most excellent lodges. A highlight, placing the Rattray’s suites before all others, are the high-tech notebooks complete with internet connection that from part of each suites incredible facilities.
Activities
A safari enthusiast knows his Big Five: Lion, buffalo, rhinoceros, leopard and elephant. These impressive animals can be encountered and observed intimately on any of the exciting and educative game drives
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offered by the Mala Mala Game Reserve.
To be eyeball to eyeballs with the savannah’s wildlife is a safari experience that you will take home with you. Not only the Big Five but a sheer endless range of other species may be observed at Mala Mala. Without exception, the game drives are guided by experienced rangers and capable trackers in open 4x4 vehicles.
However, do not content yourself with the thrilling game drives. On a night safari the bush will show you a different face, the headlight’s beam lighting up cautious eyes and strange noises breaking the silence. A little more strenuous, but thanks to the slow pace even more intense, are the guided hikes into the wilderness.
Not only may the spine-tingling sensations of the safaris be experienced at the Mala Mala, but also the tongue-tantalizing sensations of the exquisite cuisine. On a clear night, dinner is best enjoyed at the traditional boma next to the campfire. Feel the more than 60 year old tradition of celebrating feasts and sumptuous dinners at this very spot.
Finest meat and selected game will be cooked to perfection and accompanied by some of the excellent wines the country produces. Those who cherish an exceptional wine should not miss the opportunity to pay the camp’s wine cellar a visit.
The safari boutique sells souvenirs, gifts and portable memories to take home with you. Interesting books and DVDs can be borrowed at the Monkey Club library and the Bush Fitness room features all training equipment needed to get into perfect shape.
