Garonga Safari Camp
Immerse Yourself in Natures Tranquility
Reasons to Visit Makalali Private Game Reserve
- * Excellent wildlife viewing with all of the Big Five present * Day and night drives and walking safaris are available * Balloon safaris available * Cheetah breeding project * Off-road driving in open safari vehicles * Two stylish lodges offering great service and food
Makalali Private Game Reserve Wildlife
Although bordering the Greater Kruger, Makalali is a small, fully fenced, private game reserve. It is stocked with most large safari animals, including the Big Five. Both white and black rhinos are present. Other species you’re likely to encounter are cheetah, giraffe, zebra, and kudu. Lucky visitors might also see the endangered wild dog.
Black RhinoRare
BuffaloCommon
CheetahCommon
ElephantCommon
GiraffeCommon
HippoCommon
HyenaCommon
LeopardOccasional
LionCommon
RhinoCommon
Wild DogOccasional
WildebeestCommon
ZebraCommon
Wildlife Highlights
All predators are very relaxed in Makalali and sightings of cheetahs are of particularly high quality. Several wild cats were released in the reserve as part of a research project, and these very elusive, shy little predators (resembling our domestic cats) might be encountered on a night drive.
Best Time to Visit Makalali Private Game Reserve
Best Time to Visit
Best Weather
Worst Weather
The prime time for viewing wildlife in Makalali is during the winter months (Dry season) from May to September. The plant life thins in the dry weather while animals seek water at reliable sources that are easier to spot. The wildlife viewing improves as the season continues. September, which is less cold than the rest of the winter, is a particularly nice time in the area.
Low Season
- April to September (Best time for wildlife viewing)
High Season
- October to March (Rarely crowded)
Makalali Private Game Reserve Weather and Climate
The winter and summer in Makalali occur at opposite times of the year compared to those seasons in Europe and North America. The summer months (October to April) are hot and humid, while the winter months (May to September) are dry and mild. Winter nights cool off considerably, and warm clothing is recommended for morning game drives.
How to get to Makalali Private Game Reserve
For most visitors to Makalali, the arrival point from abroad is O.R. Tambo International Airport (JNB) in Johannesburg. There are connecting flights to Hoedspruit Airport, located 38km/23 mi from the reserve, and a transfer to the lodge can be arranged.By Air
Travel African Time can assist with flights from O.R. Tambo International Airport (JNB) in Johannesburg or Cape Town International Airport (CPT).By Road
Driving to the park is also an option, and you can hire a car in Johannesburg. It takes about 5½ hours to complete the 506km/314mi drive.Where to stay in Makalali Private Game Reserve