Makalali Game Reserve, South Africa Plan a trip

Makalali Game Reserve offers a slightly more peaceful safari experience than its neighbour, Kruger National Park.

The Makalali Game Reserve, also known as Greater Makalali, sits on the western edge of Kruger Park. It’s one of the private reserves that’s slightly separated from the national park run by South Africa National Parks (SANParks). The name directly translates to ‘place of rest’ and we can understand why.

This reserve stretches over 24,500 hectares so there’s plenty of room for wildlife to roam around and for you to enjoy the tranquil, calm environment. All of the big five roam through Makalali; you might spot lions, elephants, leopards, rhino and African buffalo during your tours. If you’re lucky, you might even spot the rare sable antelope.

Guided game drives and bush walks are available. The expert guides will do their best to help you see as many animals as possible while travelling through the reserve. There are also a few other activities for you to try during your stay here; hot air balloon rides, tribal dancing and drumming, rafting, abseiling along the Olifants River and learning about the local Shangaan culture. Once the day is over, you can also indulge in the reserve’s spa.

Makalali is home to two of Enkosini’s conservation projects and you can volunteer to help with one during your time here. You can either help with the world’s most advanced elephant contraception program or with lion/predator management. Both of these ensure that the balance between prey and predator is maintained and there is enough space for all the reserve’s animal inhabitants.

The Makalali Game Reserve is a lot more peaceful than the larger reserves in the area. You don’t have to worry about vehicles whizzing all over the place and scaring the animals away. Instead, it’s a peaceful and quiet opportunity to see these creatures roam in their natural habitat.

Plan your trip to the Makalali Game Reserve today.