African Safari at Mala Mala Private Game Reserve
Luxury Accommodation and Game Viewing in the Greater Kruger Reserve
Jun 14, 2009
If the rate of US$ 500 and above per person per night is not a consideration, wildlife enthusiasts should consider a couple of nights at Mala Mala Game Reserve. Filmmakers and photographers, including those of National Geographic have used Mala Mala as the location for various international and local wildlife documentaries . The rangers of Mala Mala game reserve claim there were only nine days in 2008 when guests did not view Africa's Big Five (Lion, Leopard, Elephant, Buffalo and Rhinoceros).
The personnel at Mala Mala Private Game Reserve attribute these phenomenal game viewing statistics to the fact that a maximum of fourteen safari vehicles roam the 13 500 hectares of wilderness per day in open game viewing vehicles, thus limiting the human impact on the environment. Photographic safaris are also conducted on open four-wheel drive vehicles allowing freedom of movement to venture off the road and into the veld to track down the animals. Shangaan trackers ensure guests are not disappointed in their search for the Big Five and other animals.
Accommodation at Mala Mala Lodge is offered in three exclusive camps, the Mala Mala Main Camp, Sable Camp and Rattray's on Mala Mala. A game ranger is allocated to each group of tourists and as preference is given by Mala Mala management to employing the local community, these rangers are well trained and a invaluable source of information on the history of the area.
Accommodation at Mala Mala Main Camp
At the unfenced Mala Mala Main Camp, 8 luxury suites and 10 luxury rooms provide accommodation for the discerning tourist. Each room has a his and hers bathroom with 24 hour temperature control, direct- dial telephones, a mini-bar, a mini-safe, tea and coffee making facilities, hairdryers and insect repellent.
Guests may relax in the air-conditioned lounge or keep in touch with the outside world via the library with satellite television, internet connectivity and a DVD player. A wooden safari deck overlooks the Sand River where animals quench their thirst and a safari boutique sells clothing, jewelry and artifacts to the guests. Mala Mala Main Camp also offers guests the use of a small gym and a massage service is available on request. The filtered pool overlooks the the river and surrounding bush.
Accommodation at the More Exclusive Sable Camp
Sable camp only accommodates 14 guests in thatched suites with platforms overlooking the African bush. Five suites each has his and her bathrooms, temperature control, direct dial telephones, a mini - bar, a mini safe, tea and coffee making facilities and hairdryer. No children under the age of 12 years are allowed at Sable camp and the only six guests accompany rangers on game drives. The camp has a swimming pool and internet, library and satellite television is available. There is no shop at the camp, but the main camp at Mala Mala is close by.
Luxury at Rattray's on Mala Mala Game Reserve
The theme of this camp is crystal and leather and each suite or Khaya, the Zulu name for home, is an all-inclusive home complete with his and her bathroom as well as an outdoor shower for the adventurous outdoor shower under the African sky. Sixteen guests are accommodated in eight suites, which sport a private verandah with built in heated plunge pool each. All the luxuries of the other two camps are present in the suites as well as an outdoor and indoor dining area for in-room dining.
Essential Facts before Booking Accommodation at Mala Mala Game Reserve
- Malaria is present in the area throughout the year and guests should consult their physicians to obtain the necessary prophylactics as precautionary step.
- All water in the camps is safe to drink.
- Mala Mala Game Reserve accepts credit cards, but not checks at all the camps.
- Tourists should acquaint themselves with what is included in the quoted rates.
- Wear neutral clothes when going on game drives.
- Male guests are required to wear long pants to meals.
Mala Mala Private Game Reserve is perfect for the tourist seeking an exclusive Big Five game viewing experience and to whom luxury is a prerequisite.
All photo's with permission from Mala Mala Game Reserve.
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
