Two cheetahs in the Sabi Sands Game Reserve, South Africa. Dating from the late 19th century, Hluhluwe and iMfolozi make up one of the oldest game reserves in Africa. Giraffes in Kapama Game Reserve, South Africa. It shares an unfenced border with Kruger National Park, allowing wildlife to come and go freely between the two. South Africa’s many safari destinations can be divided into two main categories: state-owned parks and private game reserves. Stylish lodge and rustic cottage accommodation is available on the reserve, which also features a spacious restaurant, an outdoor pool and a luxurious spa. There is a wide choice of accommodation, from eco lodges like Mosetlha Bush Camp to the fabulously luxurious Royal Madikwe Lodge. Select basic ads. Develop and improve products. Shamwari Private Game Reserve is a luxury safari and game lodge destination in South Africa’s ecologically and culturally significant Eastern Cape Province. Both offer guided game drives and walking safaris. The Motse camp has just reopened after a renovation and is better than ever. Addo park elephants. This rich grazing supports large herds of plains game including zebra, impala, wildebeest, and Africa’s largest antelope, the eland. The reserve is also just 15 minutes from the golden beaches at Kenton-on-Sea, giving you the best of both worlds. Our local experts can design your trip based on your preferences, South Africa's Big Three: Kruger, Zululand and Swaziland, Complete Cape Town: Wildlife, Wine and Whales, South Africa: Cape Peninsula to Victoria Falls. Unusually, Madikwe allows self-drive safaris although day visitors are not permitted. Further south in the heart of Zululand, Thula Thula Private Game Reserve is famous as the home of late, best-selling author Lawrence Anthony. Accompanied by armed rangers who act as guides, these bush walks can last between three to five days. Releasing a new kind of beast into the Timbavati, thanks to Land Rover Sandton. In turn, these animals provide food for a wealth of predators. Keep an eye out for cheetahs, aardwolves, African wild dogs, and several of the smaller felines. Lalibela Game Reserve is located in the Eastern Cape of South Africa, close to Port Elizabeth and Addo, which means it is not only malaria free, but spans 5 ecosystems, resulting in a … To the east of Shamwari lies Lalibela Game Reserve, a smaller and more intimate luxury safari destination. There are seven lodges and one explorer camp at Shamwari. Tswalu Kalahari is South Africa’s largest private game reserve, with over 110,000 hectares of grasslands and mountains. Londolozi combines luxury and conservation for an unforgettable African safari experience. List of Partners (vendors), 10 of the Best Private Game Reserves in South Africa. Kruger National Park. The major experiential difference with the Kruger is that game drives here take place in 4x4 vehicles with knowledgeable guides who can take you off-road for special sightings. Enjoy twice daily game drives and unforgettable views of the Sabi Sand Select personalised ads. The reserve’s unspoiled bush supports abundant wildlife, including dozens of species of mammals, including elephant, buffalo, lion, leopard, and rhinoceros – the ‘Big Five’. Situated within the Sabi Sands Game Reserve, Mala Mala boast exclusive traversing rights over 130 sq km (50 sq miles) of prime wildlife territory. 10 of the Best Private Game Reserves in South Africa Sabi Sands Game Reserve, Mpumalanga. Manyeleti Game Reserve is an excellent choice for those that prefer to take the path less traveled. Select personalised content. Our local experts can organise fantastic trips to South Africa for you. Dozens of mammal species live in the reserve including elephant, giraffe, warthog and impala. To get started, simply get in touch to let us know your ideas for the trip and when you would like to travel. You will find four beautiful lodges here, so there's always one that suites your taste! At the pinnacle of private game reserves, you will find Shamwari (meaning “my friend” in Shona) Private Game Reserve in the Eastern Cape, South Africa – home to the coveted Big 5 and luxurious experiences. Both spoil with private plunge pools, spa treatments, and gourmet cuisine. Hopewell Private Game Reserve is an exclusive 5 Star Graded African lodge offering luxurious accommodation and wonderful safaris in a malaria free environment. With its unique atmosphere, stylish décor and superb cuisine, the 5000 ha Thula Thula private game reserve offers you the choice of exclusive accommodation between the Elephant Safari Lodge, renowned gourmet destination, and the Luxury Tented Camp, offering an authentic African bush experience in the heart of Zululand. It’s home to seven distinct ecosystems and an incredible variety of wildlife including the Big Five. Just an hour’s drive from Port Elizabeth, this malaria-free park offers a variety of... Hluhluwe Umfolozi Game Park (Kwazulu Natal). Opt for an authentic Hemingway-style safari experience in one of the Honeyguide Tented Camps or experience the colonial-era, five-star luxury of Tintswalo Safari Lodge. In total, the reserve is home to 80 mammal species and 240 different types of bird. This award winning private game reserve offers world-class standards in luxury accommodation, exceptional close wildlife encounters, personal service and … &Beyond Phinda Private Game Reserve is situated in the lush Zululand region of Northern KwaZulu Natal, South Africa, intimately wedged between Mkuze Game Reserve and the iSimangaliso Wetland Park (previously St Lucia Wetland Park), a World Heritage Site. Rooms are built of desert sand, local stone, rich red clay and traditional Kalahari thatch. There are six luxury lodges including a private villa, Phinda Homestead. Best private game reserves in south africa, Baby elephant with herd at Sabi Sands Reserve, South Africa. Jessica Macdonald lives in South Africa's Eastern Cape province and has been TripSavvy's Africa Expert since 2016. Premier Parks & Reserves. It covers 13 300ha (33 000 acres), shares a 19km (12 mile) unfenced boundary with the world-renowned Kruger National Park and lies strategically sandwiched between the Kruger and the Sabi Sand Reserve. Here is our guide to the top private game reserves in South Africa. Djuma Private Game Reserve. There are many lodges to choose from at Sabi Sands, ranging from the more affordable Umkumbe Safari Lodge to seriously luxurious options like the Sabi Sabi camps and the two Singita lodges. Fine French and South African fusion cuisine is a highlight of life at Thula Thula and dining experiences range from Zulu feasts in the boma to Champagne picnics in the bush. Your local travel organizer for South Africa, Access travel knowledge of selected local experts, Save time & money- let a local expert plan, Tailor your private trip to your preferences, Book & travel securely- money-back guarantee & 24/7 support. Elephant family in Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Game Reserve, South Africa. Das bedeutet hier: Frühstück, Light Lunch und Dinner. Activities include guided game drives and thrilling walking safaris. Enjoy a wealth of experiences including boma dining, game drives and bush walks in Kapama Game Reserve as part of Insight Guides' Cape Amazing: Cape Town Explore trip. It has an extensive coastline and magnificent scenery, and attracts the most tourism. View Samara on Google Maps or on what3words.com – our 3 word address is ///rosters.plots.famous Londolozi Game Reserve. The Best Safari and Game Reserves in South Africa Addo Elephant Park (Eastern Cape). A range of safaris are available including horseback and quad bike experiences. Your selections on where we stayed and the timing were perfect. River cruises are particularly rewarding for birders, with frequent sightings of kingfishers, herons, and African fish eagles. There are no crowds, no noise, and no light pollution (indeed, Manyeleti’s name means “Place of the Stars” in Shangaan). Have You Heard of Malaria-Free African Safaris? Although Richard Branson’s Ulusaba Private Game Reserve is technically part of Sabi Sands, its sheer exclusiveness makes it stand out as a destination in its own right. Rock Lodge perches 800 feet above the plains on top of a granite koppie, while Safari Lodge sits beneath a canopy of ancient trees on the banks of a dry riverbed. Unlike the Mpumalanga reserves, it is also malaria-free (a big benefit for anyone traveling with kids). Mapesu Private Game Reserve is situated in Northern Limpopo, South Aafrica. We will then create a tailor-made itinerary especially for you, which can be amended until you are completely happy with every detail before booking. Linked by a corridor of state-owned land, they cover a combined area of around 1,000 sq km (390 sq miles). Cheetah in Shamwari Game Reserve, South Africa. Private game reserves offer the opportunity to savor wonderful game viewing and stay in exclusive safari lodges. Lion Sands boasts a collection of wonderful lodges in the Sabi Sands. There are many private game reserves close to Addo Elephant National Park. However, because it’s less well-known than its iconic neighbors, it sees far fewer visitors. Daily guided game drives and nature walks give visitors the chance to view these magnificent animals in their natural habitat. &Beyond Phinda Private Game Reserve is located in between Richards Bay and the Mozambique border in verdant KwaZulu-Natal. Measure ad performance. Best Park (not to be missed) Great Park (worth a detour) Situated in South Africa’s beautiful and diverse Eastern Cape, close to the Addo Elephant National Park, Hopewell Private Game Reserve is easily accessible. The birding is also exceptional with 436 different species. Lion Sands Game Reserve. With just three lodges spread out across 56,800 acres of pristine bush, you’re virtually guaranteed to have the park all to yourselves. The Timbavati Private Nature Reserve, over 53 000 hectares (131 000 acres) of unspoilt natural wilderness. This private game reserve is 7,200 hectares and has a 4 star luxury safari lodge, self catering accommodation, and campsites which offers rock art tours, Mapungubwe Park and their cultural and heritage tours, birding, safaris, game drives, and volunteering programme. Photo: Alfonso Farias/Shutterstock. Top 6 private game reserves in South Africa 1. A stay at these private reserves can be combined with game viewing in Addo National Park or can be booked as a stand-alone safari experience. Kapama Game Reserve, Limpopo Province. Above all, Madikwe is famous for its endangered African wild dogs. The nearby coast allows for scuba and ocean safaris, and turtle hatching tours in season. On the other hand, private game reserves are typically geared towards luxury travelers. She also covers travel products and has written about everything from camping knives to climbing chalk. The following top private game reserves in South Africa offer visitors the chance for unforgettable visits in truly spectacular surroundings. South Africa offers visitors some of the best game reserves & lodges in South Africa. The legendary Sabi Sands Game Reserve, which sits in the southwestern section of the Kruger National Park is a veritable wildlife oasis. Das Frühstück besteht meist aus einem kalten Frühstücksbuffet mit Obst, Müsli, Joghurt, Käse, Wurst und Brot. Top Five Game Reserves for Safaris Near Cape Town, What to Do in Zimbabwe's Hwange National Park, Kruger National Park, South Africa: The Complete Guide, The Top 18 Things to Do in Mpumalanga, South Africa, Top 5 Self-Drive Safari Destinations in Southern Africa, The Top 18 Things to Do in South Africa’s Eastern Cape Province, Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Park, South Africa: The Complete Guide, The Top 5 Places to See Leopards in Africa, 10 of the Best Places to Visit in Botswana, Masai Mara National Reserve, Kenya: The Complete Guide, Top 10 Unmissable African Safari Destinations, 18 Top Things to Do in North West Province, South Africa, The 18 Best Places to Visit in South Africa, The Top 12 National Parks to Visit in Africa, Actively scan device characteristics for identification. Sabi Sand GR (Greater Kruger) Hluhluwe-Imfolozi GR. Photo: Yat Sec Su/Shutterstock. There are two accommodation options: the Elephant Safari Lodge and the Luxury Tented Camp. National Parks & Game Reserves – South Africa. Thank you again for a wonderful life experience. Day trips to Blyde River Canyon can be arranged. Private Game Reserve Südafrika: Unglaublich gutes Essen. Your post has been submited for moderation. Sabi Sands is known for the frequency of leopard and lion sightings within its boundaries, and the chances of seeing all of the Big Five during your visit are high. Two rivers running through the 10,000-hectare property allow for unique experiences such as fishing and canoeing. Springbok in South Africa. From 5-star luxury to rustic wilderness experiences; from Big 5 reserves to coastal reserves; the game reserves & lodges of South Africa … South Africa is such an amazing place and the people are so friendly! Phinda is especially known for its healthy cheetah population and the ability to spot both black and white rhino; while its rare sand forest supports two special antelopes—the suni and the red duiker. Sabi Sands Game Reserve, Kruger. Apply market research to generate audience insights. To minimize the ecological impact of visitors, numbers are strictly controlled, so booking ahead is essential. They are defined by opulent accommodations and exclusive guided game drives. The reserve is also situated in very close proximity to the unspoiled beaches and spectacular coral reefs of the Indian Ocean, offering an … To the east of Addo Elephant National Park, the Shamwari Game Reserve is the best-known of several exclusive private reserves offering an all-inclusive ‘Big Five’ game viewing experience in the region’s hilly and wooded terrain. This exclusive private game reserve, with prices to match, is one of the most prestigious in South Africa. Courtesy of &Beyond Phinda Private Game Reserve. It began in 1993 as a single, simple and rustic lodge on a family farm in the Sabi Sands, on the edge of the Kruger National Park. Enjoy your Safari in South Africa on this malaria free reserve , which is probably the most densely stocked reserve in Africa, and with over 40 mammal species and approximately 2000 animals , can offer consistently good game viewing throughout the year. Since opening in the late 1990s, when the reserve was home to a variety of antelope species, it has evolved considerably and now supports all of the Big Five – elephant, buffalo, lion, leopard and rhino – as well as other wildlife including giraffe, wildebeest and zebra. The Western Province on the South Western corner of South Africa is the most beautiful province. The reserve covers 25,900 acres and incorporates vast tracts of savannah grassland. However, with no day visitors and no self-drive safaris allowed, it offers a much more exclusive experience than Kruger itself. Use precise geolocation data. More than 26 species of game have been reintroduced at Shamwari, including elephant, rhino, lion, leopard, buffalo, giraffe and zebra. You can browse our existing itineraries for inspiration, and keep in mind that all of our pre-planned itineraries can be fully tailored to suit your own specific requirements. National parks are open to everyone, including day visitors and self-drive safari enthusiasts. Personifying the Zulu meaning "Protector of all things" Located deep in Mpumalanga’s safari heartland, it shares unfenced borders with Timbavati and Sabi Sands private reserves and Kruger National Park. In addition to guided game drives, you can take part in San rock art tours, helicopter safaris, and walking safaris with troops of habituated meerkats. It’s also a haven for South Africa’s lesser-known predators. Manyoni Private Game Reserve lies in the heart of Zululand, an area that is world renowned for its spectacular game viewing, rich cultural traditions, and conservation history. There are five lodges to choose from, including luxury tented camp Tree Tops Safari Lodge and family-friendly Mark’s Camp. They are more affordable, and generally more crowded. It encompasses five of South Africa’s seven biomes; an amazing range of habitats that allows for an exceptional diversity of wildlife including all of the Big Five and more than 275 different bird species. Kwandwe Private Game Reserve is a world-class Big Five safari destination in 22 000 hectares of pristine private wilderness, nestled in the heart of South Africa’s unspoilt Eastern Cape province. Hluhluwe is best-known for the success it achieved in saving the white rhino from extinction. Fast immer ist bei den Private Game Reserves Vollpension inkludiert. Its broad spectrum of habitats ranges from seasonal wetlands to Kalahari bushveld and supports an incredible variety of wildlife, including the Big Five. The cuisine is a highlight, focusing on local recipes and ingredients. Awake to the sounds of the African bush veld as the sun makes its appearance on the horizon bringing with it the prospect of another perfect day. Just 4.5 hours’ drive from Cape Town, it’s midway between Mossel Bay and George, on South Africa’s scenic Garden Route. Aquila Private Game Reserve Off the N1, on the R46, 6880 Touwsrivier, South Africa Located within a 2-hour drive of Cap Deep in the African bushveld, within the Greater Kruger National Reserve, ‘something enchanting lies in wait’ – the Sabi Sabi Private Game Reserve. Pumba Private Game Reserve For all official information and updates regarding COVID-19, please visit the South African Department of Health's website at www.SAcoronavirus.co.za. Conservation is central to the Shamwari ethos, and visitors are able to visit the Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre where sick, injured, and orphaned animals are treated by a professional veterinary team. &Beyond Phinda Private Game Reserve, KwaZulu-Natal, Thula Thula Private Game Reserve, KwaZulu-Natal. There are five beautifully appointed lodges to choose from. Located in the Mkuze Game Reserve and the Greater St Lucia Wetland Park, which is a World Heritage Site, the Game Reserve comprises 14 000 hectares of prime conservation land. Other top sightings include rhinos, buffalo, leopards and hippos. The reserve features four upscale lodges and luxurious sleep-out tent accommodation, some of which sits on the banks of the Klaserie and Kapama rivers. With the magnificent Outeniqua Mountains as a backdrop and sweeping views out over the glistening Indian Ocean below, lies Botlierskop Private Game Reserve. Photo: Shutterstock. The expansive Kapama Private Game Reserve lies in-between Kruger National Park and the lush landscape of the Blyde River Canyon. As the oldest game reserve … Sabi Sands is comprised of 160,000 acres of untamed bush and is home to all of the Big Five. lodge style Magical lodge collection. Photo: Papaya Cosmos/Shutterstock. The rest of the Big Five are also represented. A full range of safaris is available at Hluhluwe-iMfolozi, while accommodation options range from hilltop camps and traditional rondavels to luxury lodges. MalaMala GR (Greater Kruger) Phinda Game Reserve. Londolozi is one of the pioneering Private Game Reserves of the ecotourism industry in South Africa and an unashamedly family run, stand alone operation. The acclaimed Wilderness Trail at iMfolozi is one of the best ways to explore the region. Mala Mala offers some of the most exclusive wildlife experiences in the region, as well as upscale accommodation at three camp locations complete with pools, spas and tennis courts. Nestled in the heart of South Africa’s unspoilt Eastern Cape province lies Kwandwe Private Game Reserve, a world-class Big Five safari destination. The reserve offers luxurious accommodation across a collection of lodges in spectacular locations, ensuring you have an unforgettable safari experience. 5661 Game Lodges accommodation listings available to book in Western Cape. Female lion and cubs in Mala Mala Game Reserve, South Africa. There are three packs living in the park, all of which are relatively accustomed to safari vehicles allowing for rare close encounters. Access to the reserve is for overnight guests only. This means that you are not only more likely to see more game, but that you also get to learn about animal behavior and how different species integrate into their environment. A breeding programme here has succeeded in raising the population from 150 in the 1930s to more than 1,500 today. For those wanting to avoid large crowds, the private game reserves which surround the Kruger are ideal. Amakhala Game Reserve is located in the malaria-free Eastern Cape of South Africa. Twice-daily guided game drives offer the opportunity to spot all of the Big Five in addition to a wide variety of other animals and birds. Pick Riverdene for a family adventure and Bayethe Tented Lodge for a private romantic getaway. Choose from five stunning lodges, including luxurious tented camp Settlers Drift and family-friendly Main Lodge or The Homestead. Thank you so much! Explore a great variety and book online at the best prices. Accommodation is spread across a number of exclusive lodges, manor houses and luxury tented camps offering chic, contemporary comfort with colonial-influenced stylings. Malaria-Free Private Game Reserves in South Africa. Voted the world’s number one safari destination, South Africa is the place for awesome wildlife sightings. Situated in the Timbavati Private Nature Reserve, Kings Camp faces an open savanna plain with a waterhole, which is frequented by a wide variety of wildlife both day and night. OUR STORY. Catering to those with deep pockets and also for those who are looking for a more tranquil stay, Mala Mala Game Reserve offers some of the most reliable leopard watching in Africa. The Londolozi area is especially famous as one of the best places in Africa to spot leopards up close. Located in the Hex River Valley around two hours drive from Cape Town, the biodiverse habitat at Aquila Game Reserve ensures plenty of variety for the avid wildlife watcher. Reflecting the Charm and Romance of a Bygone Era in a Pristine Corner of Unspoilt Africa. The Game Reserve offers a wide variety of 3, 4 & 5-star owner-managed experiences. In addition to large numbers of free-ranging lions, Lalibela is home to leopards, cheetahs, hyenas, and caracals. Located in the Eastern Cape, South Africa. Because visitor numbers are limited, you’re much more likely to have wildlife sightings all to yourself. In addition to twice-daily game drives, the reserve offers a range of exclusive experiences including sleeping out under the stars and tracking black rhinos on foot. Our trip to South Africa was wonderful! Kgalagadi TP. Zimanga Private Game Reserve Who We Are Zimanga, in KwaZulu Natal, is the first reserve in Africa designed for avid safari enthusiasts whilst simultaneously satisfying the needs of modern wildlife photographers of any level, both who prefer a deeper appreciation of the bush and crave an unhurried exclusive experience. Prices are generally on a par with five-star hotels, but then so is the service. Courtesy of Thula Thula Private Game Reserve. You can encounter the park’s residents on guided game drives and bush walks, or on dedicated photographic safaris. The legendary Sabi Sands Game Reserve, which sits in the southwestern … Anthony’s enthralling story "The Elephant Whisperer" was written about Thula Thula’s resident elephant herd, and you can encounter its protagonists and their descendants on guided game drives and bush walks. The reserve also offers an interactive children’s activity and education program. Known for its outstanding natural beauty, South Africa supports all the iconic big game for which Africa is renowned. To truly escape into the wilderness, and away from people, then Sawbona in the Western Cape or … Nightly rates include all meals and drinks, and a morning and afternoon game drive. Lodges in South Africa's private reserves offer luxurious bush-style accommodation to go with the incredible game-watching. In addition to the Big and Little Five, Ulusaba is home to 300 bird species. Samara Private Game Reserve, Petersburg Road, off the R63 to Pearston, near Graaff-Reinet, Eastern Cape, 6280, South Africa. All bookings are assigned a private guide, vehicle, and tracker. Best of all, with just two family-friendly camps (Tarkuni and The Motse), you’ll share the experience with a maximum of 28 guests. Kariega Game Reserve is another excellent malaria-free safari destination, this time in the beautiful Eastern Cape. The reserve is also home to Born Free’s Big Cat Sanctuaries. A pride of lions at Thanda Safari Lodge, a 14 000-hectare Big Five private game reserve owned by Swedish IT entrepreneur Dan Olofsson in northern Zululand, South Africa. For a malaria-free safari experience in South Africa head to the Eastern Cape.