MalaMala Game Reserve

Dating back to the 1920s, MalaMala is one of the most historic private game reserves in South Africa, the first to make the transition from hunting to photographic safaris, and a model which the rest of the region’s safari industry is based upon.

It is also one of the largest reserves, comprising of some 13,300 hectares (33,000 acres) of wilderness, sharing a long, unfenced border with the Kruger National Park. A decades long period of conservation focused practice has meant the wilderness has thrived, and is a stronghold for the Big Five, African Wild Dog, cheetah, incredible bird life and much more.

Such a vast area ensures low vehicle density (there are just three lodges here – including the Main Camp and luxurious Rattray’s) and, being a private reserve, there’s the chance for day and night drives as well as unforgettable walking safaris.