MalaMala Game Reserve

Stretching over an area of 160 sq km, Mala Mala Game Reserve is located in the north eastern part of South Africa sharing a common border with the Kruger National Park, in the province of Mpumalanga.  The strongest allure to wildlife is the perennial Sand River of which 13 km flow through the reserve. Since there are no border boundaries, it enables uninterrupted flow of wildlife between these two incredibly wild and game-rich areas.

Malamala- Safari Elephants

VEGETATION
The various habitats ranging from riverine thicket to open savannah dominant in the reserves’ low lying zones contribute to MalaMala’s reputation as the finest game viewing destination in the world. The Sand River flows north to south through the MalaMala Game Reserve for 20km and is a big draw for herds of game from both Mala Mala and Kruger National Park.
WILDLIFE
MalaMala is one of the few sanctuaries in Africa where nature enthusiasts have guaranteed chance to spot the rare and endangered wildlife such as cheetahs, pangolins and the wild dog – Africa’s second most endangered carnivore. The Game Reserve is also a Big 5 Reserve including lion, elephant, rhino, buffalo and leopard. There are also thousands of other mammals to be sighted including hyena, warthog, bush pig, hippo and giraffe as well as various antelope species. MalaMala’s thrilling game viewing chance is a prime draw-card for some of the world’s most renowned wildlife photographers and filmmakers
BIRD LIFE
The dense tropical forests in MalaMala give shelter to more than 300 species of birds. Even the most seasoned ornithologist will find much to rejoice in at Mala Mala as the bird list of rare species that inhabit the reserve areas is spectacular. The patterns of bird sightings are never constant, and there are often rare surprises which would give any twitcher a thrill. The rangers are able to discuss the bird life with authority. Some of the common species include

Malamala Game Drives

RESERVE SAFARIS
Game Hunting: It is in reserves like Mala Mala where this hunting and shooting still takes place, only the hunting is done by experienced rangers and Shangaan trackers.
Game Drives: Open Land Rover / 4×4 safari vehicles drives into the reserve offer thrilling and exhilarating encounters with the animals. This activity is much spectacular during the mornings and afternoons. The game drives are conducted in an open safari vehicle, accompanied by a professional Shangaan tracker.
Night Trails: After dark, spotlight safaris provide the opportunity to spot nocturnal creatures and carnivores are frequently seen on the hunt.
Walking Safaris: Wildlife walks into the Reserve are only organized on request and company of   experienced game rangers. This activity edges out other safari options into unforgettable moments.
GETTING THERE
Mala Mala Game Reserve lies about 5 hours drive from Johannesburg. The quickest access to the Mala Mala from Hazyview is driving eastward toward the Kruger entrance. After driving for about 37 km, is a leftwards pointing road sign to Mala Mala on a dirt road. Drive for 4 km where you will meet a T-junction; take the sharp right turn and proceed for another 4.1km to Sabi Sand Wildtuin main entrance.
At this point, an entrance fare is charged for the vehicle accessing the area as well as the visitors (ZAR20 per head). Please note that entrance fares to Sabi Sand Wildtuin are applicable and are payable on arrival. There are additional 6km to drive from here and you meet a crossroad. Turn left and follow the sign to Mala Mala.
Guests can also get there by chartering a light aircraft or scheduled flights from

Sable Camp

Johannesburg or Durban. For more information: www.malamala.com. The game reserve gates close at 22:00hrs.
WHERE TO STAY
There are actually 3 separate camps in the reserve; Mala Mala Main Luxury Camp, Rattray’s Camp on Mala Mala, and Sable Camp.
Mala Mala Main Luxury Camp
MalaMala main luxury camp is the most authentic camp. It is situated amidst the shady grooves of Mala Mala Game Reserve and has 18 guest rooms accommodating 50 persons at a time. Prices from £2408 per room fully inclusive (Main camp £1582 per room fully inclusive)
Rattray’s Camp on Mala Mala
Highly priced Rattray’s Camp is the newest. This lavish safari Lodge offers Sabi Sand game lodge accommodation in 8 luxury units for a capacity of 16 guests. The main building at this Sabi Sand lodging features a viewing deck with telescope, an air conditioned library, a convivial bar area and adjoining wine cellar.
Sable Camp
Sable Camp is set on a private reserve in the game-rich Sabi Sands and is connected to the Main Camp. It has 7 luxury suites accommodating a total of 14 guests.
CAUTION!
Guests allowed to walk around outside at ant time of the night without being accompanied by a ranger. Breakdowns and stuck vehicles are a hazard of driving through donga and bush,