"Have stayed here several times and will continue to do so when coming to Kruger. It's a great property , really comfortable rooms with everything you need, and you cannot beat the location!"
"Have stayed here several times and will continue to do so when coming to Kruger. It's a great property , really comfortable rooms with everything you need, and you cannot beat the location!"
"We traveled as a couple and spent three nights in Hoyo Hoyo. Our trip was all about the two three hour game drives morning and evening. They were sensational. Andrew, our guide was a treasure.
Our bungalow was fantastic and beautifully appointed (NB tailor your expectations. This is in the middle of the bush and not an 80th floor suite in a 6 star hotel in China). Nonetheless, all our needs were catered for with a smile and a joke from the delightful staff, always at the ready.
Highly...
"We traveled as a couple and spent three nights in Hoyo Hoyo. Our trip was all about the two three hour game drives morning and evening. They were sensational. Andrew, our guide was a treasure.
Our bungalow was fantastic and beautifully appointed (NB tailor your expectations. This is in the middle of the bush and not an 80th floor suite in a 6 star hotel in China). Nonetheless, all our needs were catered for with a smile and a joke from the delightful staff, always at the ready.
Highly...
"Everything was great! Our guide was very knowledgeable and conscientious of the needs and wants of his group. So exciting to have a herd of elephants come up and drink from the pool."
"Everything was great! Our guide was very knowledgeable and conscientious of the needs and wants of his group. So exciting to have a herd of elephants come up and drink from the pool."
"The staff went above and beyond. They went and picked up my suitcase that was delayed arrival and delivered to an airport for almost 2 hours away. They had amazing hospitality. Every morning, we are waking up with a awesome wake up. Call and treated to a great breakfast before going out on the most spectacular game drives. Could not recommend enough."
"The staff went above and beyond. They went and picked up my suitcase that was delayed arrival and delivered to an airport for almost 2 hours away. They had amazing hospitality. Every morning, we are waking up with a awesome wake up. Call and treated to a great breakfast before going out on the most spectacular game drives. Could not recommend enough."
"Unkompliziertes Check in. Extrem freundliches und hilfreiches Personal. geräumige, geschmackvoll eingerichtete, sehr saubere Bungalows mit viel Privatsphäre und mit viel Liebe zum Detail eigerichtet. Grosses bequemes Bett. Grosses sehr sauberes und praktisches Bad, grosszügig mit Badezimmer Wäsche ausgestattet. Auf der grossen Aussenterrasse eigener kleiner Plunge-Pool mit perfekt sauberem Wasser. Safe unser Zimmermädchen hat immer wieder kleine persönliche Akzente gesetzt, wie abendliche...
"Unkompliziertes Check in. Extrem freundliches und hilfreiches Personal. geräumige, geschmackvoll eingerichtete, sehr saubere Bungalows mit viel Privatsphäre und mit viel Liebe zum Detail eigerichtet. Grosses bequemes Bett. Grosses sehr sauberes und praktisches Bad, grosszügig mit Badezimmer Wäsche ausgestattet. Auf der grossen Aussenterrasse eigener kleiner Plunge-Pool mit perfekt sauberem Wasser. Safe unser Zimmermädchen hat immer wieder kleine persönliche Akzente gesetzt, wie abendliche...
"It was a very enjoyable few days. The staff and food was excellent. The game drives were very good, and Fabian the guide, was very knowledgeable. We would come again."
"It was a very enjoyable few days. The staff and food was excellent. The game drives were very good, and Fabian the guide, was very knowledgeable. We would come again."
"Wow! What a wonderful lodge. The staff were very helpful and friendly. Our Field Guide (Mauritz), Tracker (Kruger) & Butler (Abel) made our stay memorable. Food was excellent and we would highly recommend staying at Lion Sands Tinga Lodge to any of our family and friends."
"Wow! What a wonderful lodge. The staff were very helpful and friendly. Our Field Guide (Mauritz), Tracker (Kruger) & Butler (Abel) made our stay memorable. Food was excellent and we would highly recommend staying at Lion Sands Tinga Lodge to any of our family and friends."
"The property is extremely hard to find because the Google map will not be able to get you there. The staff was not prepared for our arrival, as they already had anticipated that we would not be able to find it. Consequently, the restaurant had a menu but there were only two different cuts of steak. with one piece each. since there was nothing else we ate the steak, which was fine. Getting there, you will have to travel through some neighbourhoods that didn’t seem too safe to me."
"The property is extremely hard to find because the Google map will not be able to get you there. The staff was not prepared for our arrival, as they already had anticipated that we would not be able to find it. Consequently, the restaurant had a menu but there were only two different cuts of steak. with one piece each. since there was nothing else we ate the steak, which was fine. Getting there, you will have to travel through some neighbourhoods that didn’t seem too safe to me."
"The lodge is set amongst the trees by a water hole. There are a lot of animals especially Elephants close by. The safaris are excellent and very well organised. The food is outstanding and we enjoyed every meal and homemade snack. It was outstanding."
"The lodge is set amongst the trees by a water hole. There are a lot of animals especially Elephants close by. The safaris are excellent and very well organised. The food is outstanding and we enjoyed every meal and homemade snack. It was outstanding."
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Our stay at Elephant Plains Game Lodge was unforgettable. From the warm welcome to the seamless rooming experience, everything was handled with care and professionalism.
The highlight of our trip was the remarkable safari adventures (game drives), where we had the chance to see elephants, giraffes, lions, rhinos, leopards, and more up close—a truly once-in-a-lifetime experience. The delicious meals, tailored to accommodate vegetarian preferences, were excellent.
The staff also went above and...
Our stay at Elephant Plains Game Lodge was unforgettable. From the warm welcome to the seamless rooming experience, everything was handled with care and professionalism.
The highlight of our trip was the remarkable safari adventures (game drives), where we had the chance to see elephants, giraffes, lions, rhinos, leopards, and more up close—a truly once-in-a-lifetime experience. The delicious meals, tailored to accommodate vegetarian preferences, were excellent.
The staff also went above and...
Lacey
Reviewed December 8, 2024Reviewed December 8, 2024
A wonderful experience! Hotel staff were very helpful and friendly. Eating lunch out on the deck watching the elephants come down to the water was thrilling! This hotel really exceeded our expectations. The trips and tours office went above and beyond to make all our tours a life time experience!
A wonderful experience! Hotel staff were very helpful and friendly. Eating lunch out on the deck watching the elephants come down to the water was thrilling! This hotel really exceeded our expectations. The trips and tours office went above and beyond to make all our tours a life time experience!
Lee
Reviewed November 16, 2014Reviewed November 16, 2014
what a great place to stay, we had such a great time, 20 minutes from Paul Kruger gate, the staff was friendly and helpful the entire time we were there. we LOVED it
what a great place to stay, we had such a great time, 20 minutes from Paul Kruger gate, the staff was friendly and helpful the entire time we were there. we LOVED it
The property, staff, food, and game drives all exceeded expectations! Big five were spotted in the first 24 hours and the overall amount of game sightings were impressive.
Having worked for the Walt Disney Companies I am always very critical of staff performance and attention to detail at properties and Hamiltons nailed everything.
The manager, Ben, went above and beyond for my wife and I. Went out of his way to personally drive us 2.5 hours each way to a doctor when my wife was ill and...
The property, staff, food, and game drives all exceeded expectations! Big five were spotted in the first 24 hours and the overall amount of game sightings were impressive.
Having worked for the Walt Disney Companies I am always very critical of staff performance and attention to detail at properties and Hamiltons nailed everything.
The manager, Ben, went above and beyond for my wife and I. Went out of his way to personally drive us 2.5 hours each way to a doctor when my wife was ill and...
The trip was amazing. We were supposed to stay at Imbali, but we got a cancellation text day of check-in. We ended up staying at Tintswalo Lodge instead. Dave and Eric were our guide and tracker. They are amazing people and we learned so much from them. It was my wife's birthday and one day we went back to out room and a gift was waiting for her. We want to thank everyone at Tintswalo for making our stay so memorable. We feel like part of the family and look forward to seeing them again.
The trip was amazing. We were supposed to stay at Imbali, but we got a cancellation text day of check-in. We ended up staying at Tintswalo Lodge instead. Dave and Eric were our guide and tracker. They are amazing people and we learned so much from them. It was my wife's birthday and one day we went back to out room and a gift was waiting for her. We want to thank everyone at Tintswalo for making our stay so memorable. We feel like part of the family and look forward to seeing them again.
Jesse
Reviewed November 15, 2017Reviewed November 15, 2017
Short stay in between south African conferences. Everything was beyond what was advertised. Location is superb as was staff. Safaris are great - the 3 hour walking in the early AM - you are right in the mix.
Saw 4 of big five (no Leopard) White and Black Rhino and wild dogs.
Short stay in between south African conferences. Everything was beyond what was advertised. Location is superb as was staff. Safaris are great - the 3 hour walking in the early AM - you are right in the mix.
Saw 4 of big five (no Leopard) White and Black Rhino and wild dogs.
Anonymous traveler
Reviewed February 27, 2017Reviewed February 27, 2017
Everything was as pictured. Glamping tents were good. Animals did roam the grounds. Always felt safe though. And most importantly the safari drives were amazing! If you are lucky you will get Vestment - he was the absolute best!!! Definitely recommend.
Everything was as pictured. Glamping tents were good. Animals did roam the grounds. Always felt safe though. And most importantly the safari drives were amazing! If you are lucky you will get Vestment - he was the absolute best!!! Definitely recommend.
Erica
Reviewed February 20, 2025Reviewed February 20, 2025
Lion sands was probably the most beautiful stay and moreover experience i ever had. Not only did we see tons of wildlife, the staff and guide + tracker team were out of this world, charming and caring, kind and fun, doing everything to make our stay the most agreeable. We felt like we were with family and truly believe this is an experience like no other.
It's a must do and see, one to hold and cherish.
Thank you for making it all so perfect and surprising us along the way with your kindness...
Lion sands was probably the most beautiful stay and moreover experience i ever had. Not only did we see tons of wildlife, the staff and guide + tracker team were out of this world, charming and caring, kind and fun, doing everything to make our stay the most agreeable. We felt like we were with family and truly believe this is an experience like no other.
It's a must do and see, one to hold and cherish.
Thank you for making it all so perfect and surprising us along the way with your kindness...
kiwa
Reviewed February 28, 2016Reviewed February 28, 2016
We thoroughly enjoyed our two night stay with Honeyguide Tented Safari Camp. We had four amazing game drives guided by the very knowledgeable Anton and our tracker, Johnson. They, and the rest of the staff, really made an effort to take care of our comfort and questions. They even found olives for my martini in the bush!!! We had wonderful close encounters with four of the "big five" including a couple of elephants drinking from the plunge pool near where we had lunch. The platform tents were...
We thoroughly enjoyed our two night stay with Honeyguide Tented Safari Camp. We had four amazing game drives guided by the very knowledgeable Anton and our tracker, Johnson. They, and the rest of the staff, really made an effort to take care of our comfort and questions. They even found olives for my martini in the bush!!! We had wonderful close encounters with four of the "big five" including a couple of elephants drinking from the plunge pool near where we had lunch. The platform tents were...
Patti
Reviewed October 27, 2016Reviewed October 27, 2016
Buffelshoek Tented Camp exceeded our expectations! Everything was wonderful, from the staff, to the food, to our amazing guide. I wish we could have stayed longer!
Buffelshoek Tented Camp exceeded our expectations! Everything was wonderful, from the staff, to the food, to our amazing guide. I wish we could have stayed longer!
All of the rooms were beautifully renovated. The food was incredible, everyone in the staff went out of their way to make sure that guests were happy, and they called everyone by name. The Safari rides were over the top and our guide Stuart and his tracker Colin were very knowledgeable and professional. The jeeps were brand new and very comfortable. We were sad to leave after an incredible 3 night stay at Leopard Hills.
All of the rooms were beautifully renovated. The food was incredible, everyone in the staff went out of their way to make sure that guests were happy, and they called everyone by name. The Safari rides were over the top and our guide Stuart and his tracker Colin were very knowledgeable and professional. The jeeps were brand new and very comfortable. We were sad to leave after an incredible 3 night stay at Leopard Hills.
Patricia
Reviewed September 6, 2025Reviewed September 6, 2025
What a special place! One cool newer addition is an observation platform so you can watch the sun set and scan for leopards! The camp is so peaceful and comfortable and meals were exceptional! Speaking of meal, our first few moments of a morning game drive we found a leopard in a tree eating breakfast with hyena underneath waiting for scraps. Everything about this place and the people who work here was wonderful!
What a special place! One cool newer addition is an observation platform so you can watch the sun set and scan for leopards! The camp is so peaceful and comfortable and meals were exceptional! Speaking of meal, our first few moments of a morning game drive we found a leopard in a tree eating breakfast with hyena underneath waiting for scraps. Everything about this place and the people who work here was wonderful!
The staff went above and beyond. They went and picked up my suitcase that was delayed arrival and delivered to an airport for almost 2 hours away. They had amazing hospitality. Every morning, we are waking up with a awesome wake up. Call and treated to a great breakfast before going out on the most spectacular game drives. Could not recommend enough.
The staff went above and beyond. They went and picked up my suitcase that was delayed arrival and delivered to an airport for almost 2 hours away. They had amazing hospitality. Every morning, we are waking up with a awesome wake up. Call and treated to a great breakfast before going out on the most spectacular game drives. Could not recommend enough.
April
Reviewed November 3, 2026Reviewed November 3, 2026
Thrilling Wildlife Safaris: Experience exhilarating game drives and photography safaris in one of Africa's premier wildlife reserves.
Stunning Scenery: Immerse yourself in breathtaking landscapes that showcase the natural beauty of South Africa.
Luxury Accommodation: Enjoy high-end lodging options that enhance your safari experience, including renowned camps.
Rich Cultural Experience: Explore the area's vibrant culture and history while enjoying a friendly atmosphere.
Diverse Activities: Engage in a variety of adventures, from game viewing to nearby shopping and golf courses.
Find great hotels near Mala Mala Game Reserve
Experience the ultimate wildlife getaway at Mala Mala Game Reserve, where quality accommodation meets the beauty of nature. Choose from a variety of lodging options, including the renowned Mala Mala Camp and Mala Mala Main Camp, designed to enhance your safari adventure. Whether you seek a relaxing spa experience or a nature-themed vacation, Mala Mala offers exceptional amenities tailored for both leisure and business travelers.
Elephant Plains Game Lodge: This 4-star lodge, with an impressive guest rating of 10.0 out of 10, offers a unique blend of comfort and adventure just 10km from Mala Mala Game Reserve. Elephant Plains Game Lodge is designed for travelers seeking a business travel vacation experience while immersing themselves in the wild beauty of South Africa. The lodge features cozy accommodations that reflect the surrounding landscape, creating a harmonious atmosphere. Guests can enjoy a range of amenities, including guided game drives and delicious meals that highlight local flavors, ensuring a memorable stay.
Lion Sands River Lodge: A luxurious 5-star hotel, Lion Sands River Lodge boasts a guest rating of 9.8 out of 10 and is situated 21km from Mala Mala Game Reserve. This boutique-themed getaway is perfect for those looking for an upscale experience blended with the charm of uniquely designed decor and artworks. The lodge offers exquisite dining options, a well-stocked bar, and spacious rooms with stunning river views. With its emphasis on elegance and sophistication, Lion Sands River Lodge is an ideal choice for luxury travelers and business professionals seeking a refined escape.
Simbambili Game Lodge: Known for its lavish offerings, Simbambili Game Lodge is a 5-star retreat with a perfect guest rating of 10.0 out of 10, located 11km from Mala Mala Game Reserve. This lodge is tailored for those seeking a spa-themed luxury vacation experience. Guests can indulge in a full-service spa, outdoor pool, and a private plunge pool in select rooms. The combination of relaxation and adventure, along with personalized service, makes Simbambili Game Lodge a top choice for travelers wanting to unwind while soaking in the beauty of the South African wildlife.
Where to stay near Mala Mala Game Reserve
Experience the ultimate luxury safari at Mala Mala Game Reserve, where outdoor adventures await amidst breathtaking scenery. Immerse yourself in the authentic South African wildlife experience as you explore this stunning park. Nearby, you'll find charming neighborhoods offering a friendly atmosphere perfect for relaxation and romance. From thrilling game drives to serene landscapes, Mala Mala promises an unforgettable vacation filled with natural beauty and rich wildlife encounters.
Sabi Sands Game Reserve: Located 13km from Mala Mala Game Reserve, Sabi Sands Game Reserve is a captivating village known for its exceptional outdoor experiences. This area offers a range of activities that highlight the stunning scenery and adventurous spirit of South Africa. Visitors can enjoy nature reserves, golf, and recreational areas. The peak tourist seasons in January and March to April promise vibrant wildlife experiences, making it a perfect time for nature enthusiasts. Local landmarks, including national parks and nature reserves, add to its allure, providing ample opportunities for exploration and adventure.
Manyeleti Game Reserve: Situated 18km away from Mala Mala Game Reserve, Manyeleti Game Reserve is a natural paradise characterized by its park-like setting. With a focus on outdoor adventures, this village is a haven for nature lovers, offering activities such as safaris and recreational areas. Visitor numbers peak from November to January, offering an ideal time for travelers seeking thrilling wildlife encounters. The close proximity to national parks and nature reserves enhances the experience, allowing guests to connect with the diverse ecosystems that thrive in this region.
Djuma Game Reserve: Just 10km from Mala Mala Game Reserve, Djuma Game Reserve features a picturesque park setting that invites exploration. The region is perfect for adventure seekers, with activities centered around outdoor experiences and stunning scenery. The peak travel months of April and August to September provide opportunities for witnessing breathtaking wildlife in their natural habitat. With national parks and nature reserves nearby, Djuma offers an enriching travel experience that immerses visitors in the beauty and diversity of South Africa’s landscapes.
Things to do in Mala Mala Game Reserve
Shopping
The nearest shopping option is the Kruger Park Skukuza Shopping Centre, featuring local crafts, souvenirs, and snacks. For a wider selection, the nearby Nelspruit offers various boutiques and artisanal shops showcasing handmade items and regional products, ideal for unique gifts to remember your trip.
Recreation
Mala Mala Game Reserve offers a tranquil escape with wellness activities like yoga sessions surrounded by nature and rejuvenating spa treatments featuring local ingredients. Enjoy guided nature walks and wildlife viewing that promote relaxation and mindfulness, all while immersing yourself in the stunning African landscape.
Adventure
Experience thrilling game drives at Mala Mala Game Reserve, where you can encounter the Big Five in their natural habitat. Guided bush walks offer an intimate perspective of wildlife, while birdwatching opportunities abound with numerous species in the area, making for a rich adventure in nature.
Nightlife
Experience the tranquil ambiance at the Mala Mala Bush Bar, where you can unwind with a cocktail under the stars. For a unique evening, join a night drive to spot nocturnal wildlife, followed by a cozy dinner at the lodge, savoring local cuisine in a beautiful setting.
*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.
Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Mala Mala Game Reserve
For a budget-friendly visit to Mala Mala Game Reserve, consider traveling during the low season from June to August, when prices are lower. Book your hotel about a month in advance or look for last-minute deals on Expedia. Saturdays are the cheapest days to stay, while Mondays tend to be more expensive. Use Expedia's search tool to filter for eco-friendly hotels and combine your hotel with flights for additional savings. Keep an eye out for complimentary nights and special deals to maximize your budget while enjoying your trip.
The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Mala Mala Game Reserve are June to August, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to April to May and November, where prices are slightly higher.
The best time to book a hotel: The cheapest time to book a hotel around Mala Mala Game Reserve is usually 1 month out from when you are planning to stay. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals which could secure you a cheaper stay. Look out for the green banner below the price to spot the deals.
The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Mala Mala Game Reserve is Saturday. The most expensive day to stay around Mala Mala Game Reserve is Monday.
Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia’s search tool makes it easy to choose your budget, desired location, and additional preferences. You can organize your results to display prices from the lowest to highest, allowing you to find the most affordable hotels right away. Additionally, you have the option to narrow down your choices by hotel type. For instance, if you check the Eco-certified filter, you'll find a selection of sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels available for booking.
Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel reservation at Mala Mala Game Reserve with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.
Find the best attractions near Mala Mala Game Reserve
Mala Mala Game Reserve in Mpumalanga, South Africa, is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and adventure seekers. Visitors can explore stunning national parks, reserves, and historic sites while immersing themselves in the area's rich culture and wildlife. Activities like game drives and wildlife viewing at Mala Mala Private Game Reserve offer spectacular experiences for travelers looking to connect with nature. Whether you seek thrilling adventures or serene scenery, Mala Mala has something for everyone.
Kruger National Park: Located 24km from Mala Mala Game Reserve, Kruger National Park offers a vast landscape filled with diverse wildlife and stunning scenery. Adventure seekers can enjoy self-drive safaris or guided tours, immersing themselves in the heart of the African bush.
Londolozi Game Reserve: Only 6km away, Londolozi Game Reserve is renowned for its luxurious accommodations and exceptional wildlife viewing. Experience the thrill of tracking the Big Five while enjoying personalized service in a serene setting.
Paul Kruger Gate: Situated 23km from Mala Mala, Paul Kruger Gate serves as a historic entry point to Kruger National Park. It offers rich cultural significance and a chance to learn about the area's heritage while enjoying beautiful surroundings.
Best time to go to Mala Mala Game Reserve
The best time to visit Mala Mala Game Reserve can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature in Mala Mala Game Reserve falls in February, when visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. The coolest average temperature in Mala Mala Game Reserve falls in July, visitor numbers are average and weather is sunny with no rain.
Calendar Month
Temperature
Precipitation
Cloudiness
Occupancy
Pricing
January
77.4°F (25.2°C)
Light Rain
Mostly Cloudy
Slightly High
Average
February
77.7°F (25.4°C)
Light Rain
Mostly Sunny
Slightly High
Average
March
76.8°F (24.9°C)
Light Rain
Mostly Sunny
Slightly Low
Average
April
72.5°F (22.5°C)
No Rain
Mostly Sunny
Average
Slightly High
May
68.9°F (20.5°C)
No Rain
Sunny
Slightly Low
Slightly High
June
64.8°F (18.2°C)
No Rain
Sunny
Average
Slightly Low
July
64.2°F (17.9°C)
No Rain
Sunny
Average
Slightly Low
August
68.4°F (20.2°C)
No Rain
Sunny
Slightly Low
Slightly Low
September
73.4°F (23.0°C)
No Rain
Mostly Sunny
Average
Average
October
75.0°F (23.9°C)
No Rain
Mostly Sunny
Average
Average
November
76.1°F (24.5°C)
Light Rain
Mostly Sunny
Average
Slightly High
December
77.2°F (25.1°C)
Light Rain
Mostly Sunny
Slightly High
Average
The nearest major airports for your trip to Mala Mala Game Reserve
Accessing Mala Mala Game Reserve is convenient from three major airports. Hoedspruit (HDS), situated 69km away, offers nearby hotels such as the 5-star Kapama River Lodge and Kapama Southern Camp, both providing airport shuttles with limited hours. Nelspruit (MQP-Kruger Mpumalanga International), located 82km away, features options like the Nut Grove Boutique Hotel and Loerie's Call Guesthouse, which charge for airport transportation. Skukuza (SZK), merely 19km from the reserve, boasts luxurious accommodations like Lion Sands River Lodge and Lion Sands Narina Lodge, both offering complimentary airport shuttles and scheduled transfers. These airports and hotels provide solid options for a smooth arrival at your safari destination.