Extraordinary Africa>South Africa>Kruger, Sabi Sands and around>MalaMala Main Camp
MalaMala is a legendary name in safari circles. This private game reserve shares a long unfenced border with the Kruger National Park and, as one of the oldest established reserves, the game viewing here is quite simply excellent.
What’s MalaMala Main Camp really like?
MalaMala Main Camp is the largest of the three camps on the MalaMala Reserve, with 19 rooms and suites. All of the rooms and suites are very similar in style, but the suites are about 1/3 larger and have a bath and an outdoor, as well as indoor, shower. They have a cosy, rustic feel, and private decks looking out over the Sand River or the waterhole. All rooms have fans and air-con. The bonus of a slightly larger camp is a jolly atmosphere. Evenings at MalaMala are friendly and fun, and just ever so slightly competitive, as guests and rangers note down their daily sightings on a scoreboard. (And while we remember- a quick packing tip: MalaMala asks gentlemen to wear long trousers in the evening). Often your ranger will join you for dinner on your first night, and leave you to your own devices thereafter. Most meals are served buffet style and can be served indoors or outdoors, depending on the weather. There’s a big deck, and below, gardens where there’s a gym, spa and pool looking out across the river bed- a.k.a. the animal highway.
What can I do at MalaMala Main Camp?
In such a spectacular game viewing area, MalaMala unsurprisingly has a serious focus on game drives. There’s a maximum of six guests per vehicle and no real set schedule for game drives. In general, you’ll head out in the morning and afternoon, and after the sun sets, guests can do night drives to try to spot some of the more nocturnal species. Many of the guides are keen, and talented photographers- and when we stayed, we certainly got some great shots. However, if you are a serious photographer, there is the option to book a specialised photographic vehicle. You can also do bush walks here- it’s a great way to get up close and personal with your environment, though in general you’ll tend to focus on the sounds, smells and smaller details rather than the big animals.
Giving back at MalaMala Main Camp:
MalaMala is heavily involved in anti-poaching to protect the rhino population, but they also support less glamorous, but vital monitoring projects for ground hornbills and the vegetation. And any conservation project worth its salt goes hand in hand with supporting the people who live alongside the wildlife. The N’wandlamhari Community are shareholders in MalaMala and dividends help to fund community projects.
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