MalaMala Main Camp (Sabie Sand Game Reserve) South Africa
Location:
At nearly 40,000 acres (16,000 hectares) MalaMala Game Reserve is by far the largest piece of land within the Sabi Sand Game Reserve - the oldest conservancy of private game reserves in South Africa. Situated in the fabled Lowveldt of Mpumalanga Province, MalaMala Game Reserve became the first of the tracts of privately owned game land to make the transition from hunting to photographic safaris.
But it is not just the sheer size of land that makes MalaMala so impressive. The 20 miles (32 kilometers) of open boundary, which Mala Mala shares with the Kruger National Park, provides unimpeded access to animals from this world famous wildlife sanctuary. This essentially places MalaMala as part of a soon-to-be 12 or more million acres of pristine wilderness conservation area. Of constant appeal to the wildlife from the Kruger National Park is the vast array of habitat types within MalaMala - ranging from open savannahs to dense riparian zones and granite koppies. Perhaps the greatest attraction of all is the perennial Sand River – of which, approximately 36 kilometers soaks its’ way through MalaMala Game Reserve. The diversity of these habitats is the key factor behind the incredible complexity of fauna and flora for which MalaMala has become so famous, and is proven statistically by its game viewing – where it has become the exception rather than the rule for all members of the “Big 5” not to be seen on a single day on the property.
The camps of MalaMala are camps of Africa – designed to support the experience of the bush. One will find outstandingly comfortable rooms, the renowned personal service and high quality camp cuisine. Each camp is specifically located on the banks of the Sand River with magnificent panoramic views of the surrounding bush. But ultimately it is the environment and how it is experienced that makes Mala Mala what it is today. With the resources at its’ disposal, and the experience of nearly 40 years of being a leader in its’ field, MalaMala has indeed well and truly established itself as one of the premier photographic safari destinations in Southern Africa – and arguably the world!
Accommodation:
Mala Mala Main Camp
Mala Mala main Camp is one of South Africa’s legendary and exclusive safari destinations. The camp is set in beautiful surroundings on the banks of the Sand River.
The ochre colored buildings are clustered amid shady trees and manicured lawns overlooking the Sand River. The individually decorated, spacious and comfortable rooms under traditional thatching, enjoy spectacular views and are equipped with “his” and “hers” bathrooms, 24 hour temperature control, insect proofing, direct dial telephones, a mini-bar and a mini safe. Despite the comfort offered, MalaMala retains an authentic camp atmosphere, where the attention to detail for which Mala Mala is world famous is obvious.
The accommodation at MalaMala continues the African theme with spacious bungalows under thatch. In accordance with our conservation policies, we cater for no more than 36 guests at a time. The 18 luxury rooms consist of twin or double rooms, suites, family rooms, a disabled suite and one single room. Each of the air-conditioned rooms enjoys a spectacular view of the surrounding bush and are equipped with "His" and "Hers" en-suite bathrooms, insect proof screens and top quality large twin beds. Individually decorated, they feature sets of animal or bird prints, complementing the attention to detail for which MalaMala is world famous.
Children under 12, sharing with an adult, pay 50% of the quoted adult tariff (at MalaMala Main only). Please note, no children of 5 years and younger are permitted in the boma for dinner, or on game drives (unless parent's have sole use of a vehicle). A babysitting facility is available at a nominal fee.
Sable Camp
Situated at the southern end of the MalaMala Camp in a prime elevated position overlooking the Sand River and surrounding bush, the Sable Camp is an ideal retreat for the more reclusive traveler who prefers privacy and exclusivity. The Sable Camp accommodates 14 guests in 5 luxury suites and the Lions Den - a 2 bedroomed, spacious luxury suite with magnificent views, accommodating 4 guests.
The fully air-conditioned, beautifully appointed Sable Camp has a truly colonial feel enhanced with modern comforts. A library with satellite television and internet connectivity give one the option to stay in touch with the world whilst the intimate safari bar, swimming pool and large wooden deck surrounding the camp provide the platform from which to admire the unimpeded views that make the Sable Camp experience so rich and interactive. The Sable Camp does not accommodate children under the age of 16, unless the entire camp is reserved exclusively at the respective charge.
The Lion's Den
The Lions' Den at Sable Camp is the largest, most luxurious suite at MalaMala.
The Lion's Den consists of two bedrooms and a spacious sitting room / lounge.
One simply has to step out through the large sliding doors onto the private verandah for magnificent views of the Sand River and the surrounding bushveld. If only one bedroom is required with this suite, one of the interleading bedrooms can be locked off.
A dedicated team of staff are on hand to make sure that every need of our discerning guests is taken care of, whilst our highly qualified rangers and trackers continue to present close contact viewing in the diverse wilderness that is MalaMala Game Reserve.
Facilities
Facilities within the elegant main building incorporate a viewing deck, an air-conditioned library providing a refuge for the literary devotee, an attractive bar showcasing the history of the area and an adjoining wine cellar stocked with a wide range of South Africa’s best wines.
The focus of the Rattray’s safaris will continue to reflect the ethos of the reserve over the past forty years – game viewing. Sound conservation management has ensured an environmental sanctuary for an impressive density and diversity of wildlife. With a maximum of 4 guests per safari vehicle, this wildlife wonderland that is Mala Mala unfolds.
Sightings of the Big Five and the interactions of the various species along the food chain from ants to elephants provides visitors with a glimpse of Africa as it has always been – untouched by the modern human hand. Only guests accommodated in one of the three MalaMala Game Reserve camps may traverse the immense tract of privately owned game land within the Sabi Sand Reserve.
Activities / Wildlife
Game drives are conducted in open 4-wheel drive safari vehicles in the 40,000 acre MalaMala portion of the Sabi Sand Game Reserve.
The rangers are in constant radio communication with one another to keep each other informed about the location of the game. Headsets are used for this purpose so as not to disturb the sounds of the African bush. A special game drive feature at Rattray's is a maximum of four guests per safari vehicle. The 4-wheel drive safari vehicles enable the rangers to leave the road and provide guests with close up game viewing and fantastic photographic opportunities. Night drives, with the aid of powerful spotlights, bring the bush to life at night. /p>
After dark, spotlight safaris provide the opportunity to view nocturnal creatures and carnivores on the hunt and walking safaris with an armed ranger can be arranged on request. The success of our safaris can be measured by the fact that more than 76% of MalaMala's guests have had contact sightings of the Big Five.
Accommodation Rates:- From $985 per person per night sharing. Please contact us for a quote and suggested itinerary