|
If the African Safari were personified, her home would be MalaMala...
’This is by far, bar none the largest holder of property and the best opportunity for serious photographers. The guiding and trackers are the best I have seen in Sabi Sand yet.’
-- Cindi LaRaia
MalaMala Game Reserve is the Safari Industrys 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, MalaMala shares a 19 km (12 mile) unfenced border with the world-renowned Kruger National Park and lies 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.
The soul of MalaMala's Main Camp is tangible:
| It is present in the sepia photographs in the safari bar, reflecting the history of the area; |
| it is present in the massive Jackalberry Tree, a silent witness in the boma from the beginning; |
| It is present in the faces of the staff some who have worked for the family for over 30 years; |
| It is present in the floodplain beyond the camp which has witnessed the changes year on year; |
| It is present in the granite outcrops of Sithlawayise and Campbell Koppies who stand guard over this pristine wilderness area; |
It is present in the Sand River which journeys through this sanctuary supporting this dramatic eco system,
but more importantly it is present in the generations of wild animals who have found solace in their home territories on MalaMala |
Every aspect of the Main Camp is designed to appreciate and enjoy the view of the surrounding wilds. Pathways wind their way along the perimeter of the camp to reveal individual ochre colored units tucked into the greenery which flanks the Sand River. Massive trees and rolling green lawns are filled with birdsong, with the occasional antelope or elephant which seeks the succulence of greenery.
The camp is unfenced - an oasis in the midst of the bushveld .
 
Camp Facilities :
- Air-conditioned library with satellite television, internet connectivity and DVD player
- Air-conditioned safari bar and dining-room
- A large wooden safari deck - the ideal vantage point from which to observe the steady flow of animal life at the Sand River’s edge
- Safari Deck overlooking the Sand River and surrounding bushveld
- A filtered Swimming Pool nestled in the flood plain below the Camp
- A massage service is available on request
- A fully stocked wine-cellar houses a selection of some of South Africa’s finest wines
- The Safari Boutique & Fitness Facility are located in the MalaMala Main Camp which is situated close by
Accommodation
5 luxury suites each with :
- "his" and "hers" bathrooms
- 24 hour temperature control
- direct dial telephones
- a mini-bar
- a mini safe
- Tea and coffee making facilties
- Hairdryer
Family rooms able to accommodate a third adult are available on request.
Lions Den Suite : 2 en-suite bedrooms (with facilities as above) separated by a large sitting room.
Age Restriction : No children under the age of 12
Capacity on Game Drives : 6 guests per safari vehicle
 
Rattray's on MalaMala offers a glimpse of an era long past when distant travelers to Africa married the magic of the wild with an elegance and refinement that have been immortalized in the epic tale of Karen Blixen in 'Out of Africa'. The epitome of regal colonial safari-style, the newest addition to the MalaMala portfolio is a culmination of over 40 years of experience within the Rattray Family.
Rattray's on MalaMala's bears the style of crystal and leather, with beautiful furnishings that are a treat to the connoisseur of the finer things in life, captured over generations on a land that remains as old as time.
Each suite or khaya (Zulu for "home") functions as an inclusive home, resplendent with hand-selected furnishings, lavish his-and-hers bathrooms, a secluded outdoor shower and a private heated plunge pool..
FACT FILE
Camp Facilities:
- A beautifully appointed library containing rare Africana books and magnificent works of art
- An elegant, African themed air-conditioned dining room
- A historic bar featuring photographs of the early days of this unique area and its pioneers
- A large wooden safari deck where meals are served - and an awesome game viewing experience in itself !
- A large filtered infinity pool with magnificent views across the river
- A well-appointed safari boutique with quality clothing, jewellery and artefacts
- A small fitness facility with stationary bicycle, treadmill, multigym machine, rowing machine, sit up benches, pull up bar, free weights, mats and a steam room
- A massage service is available on request
- A fully stocked wine-cellar houses a selection of some of South Africa’s finest wines
Accommodation
- 8 luxury khayas for a maximum of 16 guests
- Private verandah with grand river views
- Indigenous private garden - a haven for the birds
- " his " & " hers " bathrooms featuring a ball and claw footed bath, double shower, & under floor heating
- Outdoor shower for a nature experience with a difference
- Heated plunge pool built into the private verandah
- Outdoor and Indoor dining area for intimate in-room dining
- 24 hour temperature control - airconditioning, heating and overhead fans
- Hairdryer
- direct dial telephones
- a mini-bar
- a mini safe
- Tea & coffee making facilities
- Optional satellite television, laptop computer with wireless internet connectivity and DVD player
Age restriction : No children under the age of 16
|
