Savannah and Bushveld
A unique experience and a journey for the senses awaits the visitor to Makalali Private Game Reserve - an exclusive bush retreat close to the Kruger National Park.
Within the 30 000 acres of Acacia bush and savanna grassland reserve, are four twelve bed camps with an architectural style and flair which is in complete harmony with the environment. Constructed with hand crafted local materials, Makalali represents a merging of an exclusive African safari with a strong commitment to protecting the earth and preserving its wildlife.
A striking feature of the superb accommodation, is the adjacent day room or "sala" built on stilts nestled in the branches of Jackelberry trees that is ideal for relaxed game viewing or meditation. Each camp also has its own swimming pool, boma and enclosed dining and lounge area.
Considered one of the leading pioneers in ecotourism in South Africa, Makalali represents a conservation mission to expand South Africa's green frontier by re-establishing the ancient traditional wildlife migration routes that linked the famous Kruger Park in the east to lush Drakensberg Mountains in the west.
In the process lion, cheetah, leopard, and breeding herds of elephant, rhino, and the rare sable antelope have all been reintroduced to the wild, making Makalali home to over one thousand wild animals including four of Africa's "Big Five" wildlife species.
Access is by scheduled flight from Johannesburg to either Hoedspruit or Phalaborwa, or by charter flight to Makalali's private airstrip.
Besides game drives in open 4 x 4 vehicles, informative walks are available on a daily basis. In order for parents not to compromise their game viewing and dining experiences, skilled baby sitters are available at all times.
Makalali is renowned for its superb cuisine (named as one of the Top 10 in South Africa in 1997) and has been the recipient of numerous architectural awards.
