MalaMala Camp, the original lodge of the MalaMala Game Reserve, offers an authentic and luxurious safari experience. Nestled along the banks of the Sand River, this iconic camp combines classic African charm with contemporary comfort, providing guests with unparalleled views of the surrounding bushveld.

MalaMala Camp is ideally located on theoldest private game reserve in South Africa. Here, pathways wind their way along the perimeter to reveal individual ochre coloured units tucked into the greenery. Massive trees and rolling green lawns are filled with birdsong, while the occasional antelope or elephant strolls by. The camp is unfenced, yet completely safe for guests to fully enjoy this oasis in the heart of the bushveld. Photographers love this 33,000-acre terrain… where the industry’s blueprint for luxury photographic safaris was developed!

Protecting this delicate environment for future generations is top priority and management ensures MalaMala’s eco-friendly green status is maintained.

You are invited to explore a magical part of Africa and make memories to last a lifetime.

ENQUIRE ABOUT THIS LODGE

From R 23,040

per person per night
Rates may vary according to season. Specials may be available.

  • Local Experts

  • Best Available Rate

  • Personal Concierge

Rates

  • En-suite accommodation
  • All meals, snacks, tea and coffee
  • Game drives conducted by an experienced ranger
  • Nature walks
  • Transfers to and from the MalaMala Game Reserve Airstrip
  • Laundry (maximum 10 items/room/day)

Children of all ages are welcome at MalaMala. However, those under 4 years old are not permitted in the boma at dinnertime, nor are they allowed on game drives unless parents have booked a private vehicle (additional cost).

  • Babysitting service is provided for a nominal fee.
  • Children under 12 years old, who share accommodations with adults, pay the quoted child tariff.

Children’s Programme

Upon arrival, your personal ranger will collaborate with parents to engage children in activities that match their age, interests and independence. MalaMala kids backpacks are given to those aged 4 to 12 and include interactive checklists, colouring books, a compass and more goodies.

  • Learn basic survival skills and how to track animals
  • Discover medicinal uses of plants
  • Learn warning signs of dangerous animals, emergency first aid and radio communication
  • Special meals and “ration packs” are prepared for kids
  • Bush breakfasts allow an opportunity to learn how to make a fire and also participate in meal preparation
  • Wildlife movies, filmed at MalaMala, are available for added evening entertainment.

Detailed Description

MalaMala Camp Accommodation

MalaMala Camp features a range of accommodations designed to blend seamlessly with the natural environment while offering modern amenities.

Luxury Suites

  • Spacious 85m² suites with private decks overlooking the Sand River or a waterhole
  • En-suite bathrooms with both a bath and shower
  • 24-hour air-conditioning, heating, and overhead fans
  • Mini-bar, tea and coffee making facilities, and mini-safe
  • Direct dial telephones and complimentary wireless internet

Luxury Rooms

  • 55m² rooms with private verandahs
  • En-suite bathrooms with showers only
  • Air-conditioning, heating, and overhead fans
  • Mini-bar, tea and coffee making facilities, and mini-safe
  • Direct dial telephones and complimentary wireless internet

Single Room

  • 40m² room with a private verandah
  • En-suite bathroom with a shower
  • Air-conditioning, heating, and overhead fan
  • Mini-bar, tea and coffee making facilities, and mini-safe
  • Direct dial telephone and complimentary wireless internet

Accessible Suite & Services

MalaMala prides itself on being one of the few safari destinations able to offer a fully equipped suite for those with disabilities.

  • Master bedroom with two en-suite bathrooms and an additional disabled bathroom
  • Adjustable desk/table
  • Separate lounge area may be converted to a bedroom for an accompanying aid
  • Game drives are conducted safely in a Land Rover equipped with wheelchair ramp

MalaMala Camp Main Lodge Facilities

MalaMala Camp offers a range of facilities to enhance the guest experience:

  • A warm and inviting lounge area for relaxation and socializing
  • An elegant, African-themed air-conditioned dining room
  • The iconic “Buffalo Bar” featuring historic photographs of the early days of MalaMala
  • An expansive wooden safari deck, shaded by a Jackalberry tree, overlooking the Sand River
  • An air-conditioned library with satellite television and DVD player, affectionately known as the “Monkey Club”
  • A traditional reed “boma” for evening meals around the fire
  • A large filtered infinity pool with magnificent views across the river
  • A well-appointed safari boutique with quality clothing, jewellery, and artefacts
  • A small fitness facility with various equipment
  • Massage services available
  • Mobile phone coverage and complimentary wireless internet connectivity

Cuisine

Dining at MalaMala Camp is a celebration of South African cuisine, combining traditional flavours with contemporary flair. Guests can enjoy meals in various settings, including the dining room, on the deck overlooking the river, or in the boma under the stars. The camp’s chefs use locally sourced ingredients to create dishes that reflect the rich culinary heritage of the region.

The chefs are happy to accommodate special dietary requirements, as well as any special occasions. Please advise when making your reservation.

MalaMala Camp Activities

Guests at MalaMala Camp can engage in a variety of activities designed to immerse them in the African bush:

  • Twice-daily game drives in open 4×4 vehicles, with a maximum of six guests per vehicle
  • Guided bush walks with experienced rangers and trackers
  • Bird watching and wildlife observation from the camp’s elevated decks
  • In-suite massage and wellness treatments
  • Stargazing under the African night sky
  • Photography opportunities to capture the diverse wildlife and landscapes

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