MalaMala Camp
Kruger National Park 2116 South Africa
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About
5.0
#4 of 5 lodges in Mala Mala Private Game ReserveLocation
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MalaMala Game Reserve is the Safari Industry's blueprint to the luxury photographic safari. In existence since 1927, this massive thriving tract of land produces the most exciting wildlife experience this side of the equator. MalaMala Game Reserve is the largest private Big Five game reserve in South Africa. Comprising 13 300 ha (33 000 acres), MalaMala shares a 19 km (12 mile) unfenced border with the world-renowned Kruger National Park, and lies strategically sandwiched between the National Park and the Sabi Sand Reserve. For over four decades, Michael Rattray has remained focused on his objective to preserve and protect the land over which he is custodian. Allowing nature to move to its innate rhythm, guests experience today what the forefathers of the African Safari would have experienced at the turn of the century. This philosophy has paid off, as experienced by a veritable collection of photojournalists and film-makers who have made MalaMala their destination of choice to capture footage of wildlife viewing that would rival any Hollywood production for thrilling and breathtaking animal encounters. MalaMala's Camps (MalaMala Main Camp, Sable Camp and Rattray's on MalaMala) are the embodiment of an authentic safari experience pioneered at a time when the safari was simple - unassuming camps, vast sweeping plains, the African sky and the bush in all its splendour. Wellness was the feeling after a long day in the wild. Cigars were shared without pomp and ceremony. Guests to MalaMala will still spend hours beneath an inky sky in the traditional boma exchanging stories from the wild - a sumptuous meal, good company and relaxed faces warmed by the crackling fire, accompanied by the nocturnal symphony of sound.
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Property amenities
Free parking
Free High Speed Internet (WiFi)
Fitness Centre with Gym / Workout Room
Pool
Free breakfast
Entertainment staff
Airport transportation
Massage
Secured parking
Wifi
Pool with view
Outdoor pool
Bar / lounge
Restaurant
Breakfast available
Breakfast buffet
Special diet menus
Gift shop
Outdoor fireplace
Shared lounge / TV area
Shops
Sun terrace
24-hour front desk
Private check-in / check-out
Laundry service
Ironing service
Room features
Air conditioning
Private balcony
Room service
Safe
Seating area
Wake-up service / alarm clock
Minibar
Complimentary toiletries
Good to know
HOTEL CLASS
Star ratings are intended to indicate the general level of features, amenities, and services to expect. This property is classified according to Giata.
HOTEL STYLE
Family
Great View
Languages Spoken
Afrikaans
Location
Kruger National Park 2116 South Africa
Getting there
Arathusa Safari Lodge Airport
7.1 km•
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Londolozi Aerodrome
3.8 km•
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Detailed Reviews
My husband and I, along with two grown grandkids, had originally booked lodging 2 suites) for four nights in the Main Camp. However, upon arrival we learned we had been upgraded to their Rattray’s Camp, touted as ‘the most beautiful Safari accommodation in the country’.
Wow! In our opinion, maybe it is the most beautiful in the entire continent. We were given two guest houses ( they only have eight I believe) which were incredibly luxurious. Each cottage had two huge bathrooms off an enormous and tastefully decorated living/sleeping area. Also our own private pool and deck plus free laundry. The food was delicious and plentiful. They serve a light breakfast before the 6a.m. game ride, then a big brunch at 11:00, high tea at 3:00 and dinner at 7:30. Three nights we had dinner at their outdoor boma(sp?) an enclosed area with a central bonfire. One night, as the only guests for the evening, we ate in their cozy lounge/bar in front of a roaring fireplace.
Malamala has extensive game lands and the animals are so used to the vehicles they barely glance up as you approach. We saw every animal we wanted to see, and very close up. Our guide was was very flexible with our schedules and very knowledgeable about the area. We were also provided with much appreciated blankets and hot water bottles during the game rides as we were there during their winter (although it warmed up nicely during the day. The manager (Corine?) was a real asset: most attentive to our every whim and often joined us at high tea. Highly recommend but note no children under sixteen can stay there.
Wow! In our opinion, maybe it is the most beautiful in the entire continent. We were given two guest houses ( they only have eight I believe) which were incredibly luxurious. Each cottage had two huge bathrooms off an enormous and tastefully decorated living/sleeping area. Also our own private pool and deck plus free laundry. The food was delicious and plentiful. They serve a light breakfast before the 6a.m. game ride, then a big brunch at 11:00, high tea at 3:00 and dinner at 7:30. Three nights we had dinner at their outdoor boma(sp?) an enclosed area with a central bonfire. One night, as the only guests for the evening, we ate in their cozy lounge/bar in front of a roaring fireplace.
Malamala has extensive game lands and the animals are so used to the vehicles they barely glance up as you approach. We saw every animal we wanted to see, and very close up. Our guide was was very flexible with our schedules and very knowledgeable about the area. We were also provided with much appreciated blankets and hot water bottles during the game rides as we were there during their winter (although it warmed up nicely during the day. The manager (Corine?) was a real asset: most attentive to our every whim and often joined us at high tea. Highly recommend but note no children under sixteen can stay there.
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Date of stay: July 2021Trip type: Travelled with family
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
+1
Caroline and I had an incredible stay at the famous Mala Mala! All the staff were very friendly, always smiling and asking how they can help. We stayed in the beautifully decorated river facing honeymoon suite, with all the modern amenities one would expect from a 5 star hotel. Our ranger Liam was very professional and full of fun, he managed to get us excellent sightings of the the Big 5 and lots more! As an avid wildlife photographer I had come to the right place. The food was delicious and we thoroughly enjoyed each meal. We loved staying in an unfenced camp and in the afternoons we would relax around the pool with a gin and tonic soaking in the incredible views and atmosphere. I would highly recommend a stay at this incredible reserve for the best game sightings in the world!
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Date of stay: December 2020
Value
Location
Service
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Mala Mala is personal and service orientated. We travelled as a family of 4 with 2 boys aged 10 and 7 and stayed for 4 nights.On arrival we were greeted by reception staff as well as Izel Kriek our game ranger who acted as host for the stay.
The food was excellent and catered to our halal, vegetarian and child friendly requirements.
The game drives were exceptional. The special part of this experience were that game drives were tailored to our family requirements with flexible start and stop times and beaks in between. Viewings were not rushed and we only left a sighting when guests were satisfied. We were also often the only vehicle at a great sighting. This was very peaceful and intimate. We got to see the animals in a very relaxed manner behaving as if they were not bothered by us.
We had great lion sighting ...... different prides and coalitions. We also saw 5 different entertaining leopards over our time there including a cub. We followed a pack of wild dogs over 2 days and saw them mating as well as devouring an impala kill.
The staff were great with the children. They kept them busy and entertained (esp Michael) and ensured that they had their mid day snacks. Izel did a survival course and taught them about tracking and flora and fauna and answered their innumerable questions patiently. They received Junior game ranger certificates at the end.
Mala Mala is a truly special place. Would love to return soon.
The food was excellent and catered to our halal, vegetarian and child friendly requirements.
The game drives were exceptional. The special part of this experience were that game drives were tailored to our family requirements with flexible start and stop times and beaks in between. Viewings were not rushed and we only left a sighting when guests were satisfied. We were also often the only vehicle at a great sighting. This was very peaceful and intimate. We got to see the animals in a very relaxed manner behaving as if they were not bothered by us.
We had great lion sighting ...... different prides and coalitions. We also saw 5 different entertaining leopards over our time there including a cub. We followed a pack of wild dogs over 2 days and saw them mating as well as devouring an impala kill.
The staff were great with the children. They kept them busy and entertained (esp Michael) and ensured that they had their mid day snacks. Izel did a survival course and taught them about tracking and flora and fauna and answered their innumerable questions patiently. They received Junior game ranger certificates at the end.
Mala Mala is a truly special place. Would love to return soon.
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Date of stay: April 2021Trip type: Travelled with family
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
+1
We had planned to visit march 2020 but covid ruined it. The lodge kindly allowed us to reschedule this trip during the various lockdowns. We finally managed to get to South Africa and it was worth the wait. Mala mala camp is located across the sand River. Our villa overlooked the river. It was nicely appointed with everything you would expect except a TV (non of the villas have them). It would have been nice to have between game drives.
Our Ranger Robyn was excellent and she went that extra mile in that we would alway be the first leaving in the am and the last back. The mornings start early with tea/coffee and a light bite around 5:30am and a proper breakfast when you get back around 9:30-10. Breakfast is excellent especially after an early start. Afternoon Tea is served just before you go out at 15:30 which has a nice selection. Upon returns at 7:00 dinner is normally served. We found the menus somewhat limited hence the 4 stars. Given the type of lodge, we expected more as there is only the single restaurant. We had visited the four seasons serengeti lodge which had a much bigger and diverse menu.
But the point of coming is for the wildlife and on that it didn't disappoint. We got to see so much and just when you think you have seen it all, then more. We saw the big 5, saw a live hunt involving wild dogs. Countless leopards and lions. The only thing we didn't see were cheetahs. Given the grass wad overgrown we still saw most things so much so that we have decided to return in August.
If they could fix the restaurants and get some televisions in the rooms, it would get all the stars from me. Their biggest assets are the people that work there. A huge thank you to Chantel for arranging, Robin, Sam,...
Our Ranger Robyn was excellent and she went that extra mile in that we would alway be the first leaving in the am and the last back. The mornings start early with tea/coffee and a light bite around 5:30am and a proper breakfast when you get back around 9:30-10. Breakfast is excellent especially after an early start. Afternoon Tea is served just before you go out at 15:30 which has a nice selection. Upon returns at 7:00 dinner is normally served. We found the menus somewhat limited hence the 4 stars. Given the type of lodge, we expected more as there is only the single restaurant. We had visited the four seasons serengeti lodge which had a much bigger and diverse menu.
But the point of coming is for the wildlife and on that it didn't disappoint. We got to see so much and just when you think you have seen it all, then more. We saw the big 5, saw a live hunt involving wild dogs. Countless leopards and lions. The only thing we didn't see were cheetahs. Given the grass wad overgrown we still saw most things so much so that we have decided to return in August.
If they could fix the restaurants and get some televisions in the rooms, it would get all the stars from me. Their biggest assets are the people that work there. A huge thank you to Chantel for arranging, Robin, Sam,...
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Date of stay: March 2022Trip type: Travelled as a couple
Room Tip: Take a hat and something warm to wear for first thing in the am
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
We have visited many safari camps in Zimbabwe, Zambia, Kenya and Botswana and Mala Mala Sable Camp in South Africa is up there with the best of them.
The position of the camp in really far in to the wilderness from the road and really benefits from this location.
The situation beside the river makes the area quite green and it is truly beautiful. Sable camp lodges are absolutely stunning (try to get one facing the river) and the staff are so friendly and happy in their jobs. They are in traditional style which I love. The food is amazing too and served at individual tables as opposed to some camps where everyone eats at the same table.
We had Steff as our ranger guide and she was a force of nature, fearless, venturing right into thickets to enable us the best views of game of which there was many. She was also very knowledgeable, friendly, and she had such a life force which we loved and admired her greatly for.
As for the animals,we saw numerous leopards,elephants, lions, buffalo, mongooses, lots of birds and raptors and best of all, Steff heard that wild dogs may be in the reserve (I had always wanted to see them) and she took the risk of looking for them as they were right on the edge. She really searched and she found a huge pack. It was an amazing sight. I was totally overcome.
If you choose Mala Mala, trust me, you won’t be disappointed. It is an amazing place to visit.
The position of the camp in really far in to the wilderness from the road and really benefits from this location.
The situation beside the river makes the area quite green and it is truly beautiful. Sable camp lodges are absolutely stunning (try to get one facing the river) and the staff are so friendly and happy in their jobs. They are in traditional style which I love. The food is amazing too and served at individual tables as opposed to some camps where everyone eats at the same table.
We had Steff as our ranger guide and she was a force of nature, fearless, venturing right into thickets to enable us the best views of game of which there was many. She was also very knowledgeable, friendly, and she had such a life force which we loved and admired her greatly for.
As for the animals,we saw numerous leopards,elephants, lions, buffalo, mongooses, lots of birds and raptors and best of all, Steff heard that wild dogs may be in the reserve (I had always wanted to see them) and she took the risk of looking for them as they were right on the edge. She really searched and she found a huge pack. It was an amazing sight. I was totally overcome.
If you choose Mala Mala, trust me, you won’t be disappointed. It is an amazing place to visit.
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Date of stay: September 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
+1
Just a quick review about our recent trip to Mala Mala. We planned this pre-covid, our third visit to Mala Mala, and had to reschedule flights a number of times but did not cancel due to the unique opportunity presented with travel during Covid. US citizens are free to travel here, with a simple RT-PCR test within 72 hours of start of travel, yet many have been reluctant due to media reports. There is a lot of debate ongoing, but if you are vaccinated and thinking about it, don’t hesitate.
The guides have been rigorous with their upkeep of the usual “rounds”, and the wildlife viewing is as exceptional as always. Large lion prides feeding. Cape hunting dogs. Rhino, looking healthy and cherished. Leopards and cubs. Cheetah chilling. It’s all here. What is also here is Mala Mala’s flawless execution of covid standards, including same-day covid testing for travel and their ability to do most dining and all activities outdoor and distanced. We travelled with our “pod” of six ( vaccinated) and felt comfortable and compliant with current CDC standards. The viewings as always, kept surpassing expectations.
Thank you to all the Mala Mala staff and our exceptional guide for another unforgettable experience.
The guides have been rigorous with their upkeep of the usual “rounds”, and the wildlife viewing is as exceptional as always. Large lion prides feeding. Cape hunting dogs. Rhino, looking healthy and cherished. Leopards and cubs. Cheetah chilling. It’s all here. What is also here is Mala Mala’s flawless execution of covid standards, including same-day covid testing for travel and their ability to do most dining and all activities outdoor and distanced. We travelled with our “pod” of six ( vaccinated) and felt comfortable and compliant with current CDC standards. The viewings as always, kept surpassing expectations.
Thank you to all the Mala Mala staff and our exceptional guide for another unforgettable experience.
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Date of stay: May 2021Trip type: Travelled with friends
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
+1
Over many years I have been on many Safari type holidays. Kenya, Zambia, Zimbabwe, Tanzania and South Africa. Mala Mala tops them all. It’s location facing the Sabi Sand river and investment into best accommodation add up to a very comfortable stay with greatest chance to see all fauna and flora available. Staff, management and Rangers are very competent and friendly.
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Date of stay: December 2022Trip type: Travelled as a couple
Room Tip: Get used to early morning wake ups, and practice siestas in the middle of the day.
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
This was our second visit to Mala Mala, if possible better than the first!!! Eleven leopards in 4 days, cannot be equalled anywhere in Africa. It was magical from start to finish, Big Five on 3 of the 4 days. We also saw a Honey Badger which is an extremely rare sighting in daylight. Our guide Nick was extra special, he has an intrinsic "feel" for the bush. He always managed to get us in a position where we were close to the sighting and were able to sit for long periods of time just soaking up the animals. We sat with 6 wild dog pups and watched them playing for at least thirty minutes. The sightings are self managed by the rangers and you are never surrounded by vehicles in fact most of the time you are on your own. I must not forget the lodge staff, they are all so friendly and nothing is too much trouble. Francine deserves a special mention, she was our allocated server and what a treasure. Many excellent reviews are given by people who perhaps have not had much Safari experience and they are therefore always very good. My husband and I have been on over 100 safaris all across Africa and this review is based on the total experience. Many South African will look at the rates and declare it is unaffordable. My advice - save up as no bucket list is complete without visiting Mala Mala.
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Date of stay: September 2023Trip type: Travelled as a couple
Value
Location
Service
Room Tip: Ask for a river facing room
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
The accommodation is clean, but much more upscale than what I'm used to in Africa. This was booked due to the location, so the luxury just wasn't my cup of tea. The rooms were comfortable and we had a cute waterhole view, but I wish the camp was a little more traditional and not as upscale. I did not like how there were animal heads decorating the lodge and I didn't like the animal skin carpets on display and being sold. It left a bad taste in my mouth. The food was okay-- not the best I've had, but also not the worst and the portions were good. Some game drives were slower paced than what I'm used to but when we did see sightings they were often good. I like the 3 vehicle limit for sightings. The staff were friendly and accommodating, which I appreciate!
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Date of stay: July 2022
Rooms
Location
Service
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Where to start? From the amazing facilities - the room upgrades still feel very new and the facilities are exceptional, to staff friendliness and service, the food offering, to the most critical aspect of a safari, the excellent guiding and surroundings Mala Mala camp is one of the best all round safari experiences. The sightings of game are more than you ever expect but the drives are always about so much more than that thanks to the guides. The river views from the rooms make you want to stay in camp but the experiences on the drives make sure that you get up early each morning and afternoon to venture out. Great vegetation, birding and mammal sightings. Also loved the early morning food options before the drives and likewise the high tea offerings were fabulous. Management and staff are to be congratulated on a well run operation!
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Date of stay: March 2021
Rooms
Service
Sleep Quality
Room Tip: Good views from all rooms
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Very casual. Shorts, long pants, jeans, t-shirts are all perfectly acceptable. There is no strict dress code however we do recommend closed shoes for the evenings as sometimes dinner is served in the outdoor boma.
I don’t recall, but getting up so early for the morning drive followed by an amazing full breakfast and some needed downtime, didn’t leave much time before the afternoon drive to spend much time at the pool. There is a wonderful message available to help spend some time at too.
Yes, there is excellent laundry service provided at no extra charge
We were there in March and were told that you tipp around $20-25 a day. And half that for general staff. You do that upon check out and can add that to your final bill
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ALSO KNOWN AS
mala mala main camp hotel mala mala private game reserve
LOCATION
South AfricaKruger National ParkSabi Sand Game ReserveMala Mala Private Game Reserve
NUMBER OF ROOMS
19
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Frequently Asked Questions about MalaMala Camp
What are some of the property amenities at MalaMala Camp?
Some of the more popular amenities offered include free wifi, free breakfast, and a pool.
Which room amenities are available at MalaMala Camp?
Top room amenities include a minibar, air conditioning, and a seating area.
What food & drink options are available at MalaMala Camp?
Guests can enjoy free breakfast, an on-site restaurant, and a lounge during their stay.
Is parking available at MalaMala Camp?
Yes, free parking and secured parking are available to guests.
Are there opportunities to exercise at MalaMala Camp?
Yes, guests have access to a pool and a fitness centre during their stay.
Does MalaMala Camp have airport transportation?
Yes, MalaMala Camp offers airport transportation for guests. We recommend calling ahead to confirm details.
Is MalaMala Camp located near the city centre?
Yes, it is 0.07 km away from the centre of Mala Mala Private Game Reserve.