"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...
"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."
"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 villa was magnificent and in many ways better than what's shown in the photos. All the staff were very professional and made sure we were taken care of."
"The villa was magnificent and in many ways better than what's shown in the photos. All the staff were very professional and made sure we were taken care of."
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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 complex has an excellent restaurant with great views of wildlife and the service was exceptional. The Gym was very good and its equipment was pristine.
Our Boma was very private and it had nice views of various species of wildlife walking by every afternoon as they made their way into the bush for the evening.
The complex has an excellent restaurant with great views of wildlife and the service was exceptional. The Gym was very good and its equipment was pristine.
Our Boma was very private and it had nice views of various species of wildlife walking by every afternoon as they made their way into the bush for the evening.
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
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!
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 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
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!
Thrilling Wildlife Safaris: Experience unforgettable game drives and photography safaris that bring you close to South Africa's diverse wildlife.
Luxurious Accommodations: Enjoy a stay at renowned camps like Mala Mala Camp and Mala Mala Main Camp, offering comfort and exceptional amenities.
Stunning Natural Scenery: Immerse yourself in breathtaking landscapes and vibrant wildlife that define the beauty of Mpumalanga.
Cultural Experiences: Engage with local heritage through guided tours and cultural activities that enrich your understanding of the area.
Nearby Attractions: Explore shopping centers and golf courses for additional leisure activities beyond the reserve.
Find great hotels near Mala Mala Game Reserve
Discover the enchanting Mala Mala Game Reserve, where quality accommodations await you in a stunning natural setting. Choose from the renowned Mala Mala Camp or the luxurious Mala Mala Main Camp, both offering a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure. Ideal for business travelers and nature enthusiasts alike, these lodges provide exceptional amenities and spa services, ensuring a memorable experience amidst the breathtaking South African wilderness.
Elephant Plains Game Lodge: Nestled 10km away from Mala Mala Game Reserve, the 4-star Elephant Plains Game Lodge offers an immersive experience for travelers seeking a blend of adventure and relaxation. With a guest rating of 10.0 out of 10, this lodge features a warm, rustic charm that reflects the natural beauty of the surrounding landscape. Guests can enjoy comfortable accommodations with amenities designed for both business and leisure travelers. The lodge provides easy access to game drives and guided tours, perfect for exploring the rich wildlife of the region.
Lion Sands River Lodge: Positioned 21km from Mala Mala Game Reserve, the luxurious 5-star Lion Sands River Lodge boasts a guest rating of 9.8 out of 10. This boutique-themed hotel offers a unique blend of sophistication and comfort, with elegantly designed decor and artworks that reflect the local culture. Ideal for those looking to indulge in a spa-themed getaway, the lodge features a full-service spa offering a variety of treatments, including massages and manicures, as well as an outdoor pool. Guests can unwind in style while enjoying exquisite views of the Sabie River.
Simbambili Game Lodge: Located 11km from Mala Mala Game Reserve, the 5-star Simbambili Game Lodge is a haven for luxury seekers with a perfect guest rating of 10.0 out of 10. This lodge combines opulence with a tranquil atmosphere, making it ideal for both business travelers and those looking for a spa retreat. Guests can indulge in various spa services, including in-room plunge pools and outdoor pools, ensuring a relaxing stay. The lodge’s modern amenities and serene environment provide the perfect backdrop for an unforgettable safari experience.
Where to stay near Mala Mala Game Reserve
Discover the enchanting Mala Mala Game Reserve, where luxury safari experiences meet the heart of authentic South African wildlife. Nestled in Mpumalanga, this stunning reserve offers thrilling outdoor adventures and breathtaking scenery. Explore nearby cities and neighborhoods, where you can immerse yourself in a romantic and relaxing atmosphere, surrounded by friendly locals. Whether you're seeking an exhilarating safari or a peaceful retreat, Mala Mala is the perfect destination for an unforgettable vacation.
Sabi Sands Game Reserve: Located 13km from Mala Mala Game Reserve, Sabi Sands is a charming village that serves as a gateway to various outdoor adventures. The area is renowned for its breathtaking scenery and abundant wildlife. Visitors can engage in activities ranging from nature reserves and parks to recreational areas and golf resorts. The peak tourist seasons in January and from March to April attract many nature enthusiasts eager to explore the local national parks and nature reserves. Whether you’re looking for an adrenaline rush or serene landscapes, Sabi Sands offers a memorable travel experience.
Manyeleti Game Reserve: Situated 18km from Mala Mala Game Reserve, Manyeleti Game Reserve is a picturesque village known for its stunning natural parks. The region is a haven for travelers seeking outdoor adventures, especially during the peak months of November to January. Guests can enjoy a variety of activities, including safaris and visits to local resorts. Manyeleti is surrounded by national parks and nature reserves, making it an ideal spot for wildlife lovers and those looking to immerse themselves in South Africa’s rich biodiversity.
Djuma Game Reserve: Just 10km from Mala Mala Game Reserve, Djuma Game Reserve is another beautiful natural park that attracts nature enthusiasts year-round. With peak visitor seasons in April and from August to September, this area offers thrilling outdoor activities and captivating scenery. Visitors can explore the nearby national parks and nature reserves, which serve as fantastic backdrops for wildlife viewing and photography. Djuma promises an adventurous experience for those looking to connect with nature and witness the splendor of South African wildlife.
Things to do in Mala Mala Game Reserve
Shopping
Nearby, you can explore boutique shops and local artisans offering unique crafts and souvenirs. Check out the local markets for handmade goods that reflect the rich culture of South Africa, providing memorable gifts to take home from your Mala Mala experience.
Recreation
At Mala Mala Game Reserve, indulge in rejuvenating spa treatments surrounded by nature. Enjoy guided yoga sessions overlooking the savannah. For adventure, partake in thrilling game drives and guided walking safaris to connect with wildlife and experience the breathtaking landscape.
Adventure
Mala Mala Game Reserve offers thrilling game drives where you can witness Africa's magnificent wildlife up close. Guided bush walks provide an immersive experience, allowing you to explore the flora and fauna on foot. Enjoy birdwatching in diverse habitats, and relax at luxury accommodations with stunning views of the landscape.
Nightlife
At Mala Mala Game Reserve, evenings are tranquil yet captivating. Enjoy guided night drives to spot elusive wildlife under the stars. The lodge often hosts intimate gatherings, where guests can share stories around a fire, savoring local flavors and drinks in a serene, natural 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
To save money on your trip to Mala Mala Game Reserve, plan your visit between June and August for lower rates, and book your accommodation about a month in advance. Utilize Expedia for last-minute deals and filter results by budget and eco-friendly options. Saturday is the cheapest day to stay, while Monday is the most expensive. Consider package deals that combine flights, hotels, and activities for additional savings. Lastly, keep an eye out for complimentary nights and great deals to maximize your budget while enjoying the beauty of South Africa.
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: Booking a hotel around Mala Mala Game Reserve about 1 month out from when you are planning to stay is usually when prices are lowest. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals for hotels, look out for the green banner below the price, as this indicates a cheaper deal.
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: Utilize Expedia’s search tool to refine your options based on your budget, desired location, and preferred hotel style. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and eco-friendly hotels that are currently available. To find the best prices and deals, simply sort the price filter from lowest to highest.
Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel stay at Mala Mala Game Reserve with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.
Find the best attractions near Mala Mala Game Reserve
Mala Mala Game Reserve in Mpumalanga, South Africa, is perfect for outdoor and adventure enthusiasts. Visitors can explore stunning national parks, historic sites, and the rich wildlife that the reserve has to offer. Activities include guided safaris, wildlife viewing, and cultural experiences that showcase the area's natural beauty and heritage. Whether you're keen to delve into the spectacular wildlife or simply enjoy the scenery, Mala Mala promises an unforgettable vacation experience.
Paul Kruger Gate: Discover the cultural significance of Paul Kruger Gate, a historic arch located 23km from Mala Mala Game Reserve. This landmark serves as an entrance to the renowned Kruger National Park and captures the essence of South Africa’s rich history.
Kruger National Park: Immerse yourself in the breathtaking landscapes of Kruger National Park, situated 24km away. Known for its outdoor adventure and stunning scenery, this national park offers diverse wildlife and picturesque views, perfect for nature lovers.
Londolozi Game Reserve: Just 6km from Mala Mala, Londolozi Game Reserve is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts. Experience intimate game drives and the beauty of the African bush, making it a truly unique part of your safari journey.
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 via three major airports. Hoedspruit Airport (HDS), located 69km away, offers several nearby hotels such as the luxurious Kapama River Lodge and Jabulani Safari Relais & Chateaux, both just minutes from the airport. Nelspruit (MQP-Kruger Mpumalanga Intl.), 82km away, has high-end options like Nut Grove Boutique Hotel and Matumi Golf Lodge, which provide various transportation services to the airport. The closest option is Skukuza Airport (SZK), only 19km away, with excellent accommodations including Lion Sands Tinga Lodge, all offering shuttle services for easy airport access.