A day at MalaMala
On arrival at the camps in the reserve, guests are introduced to their ranger, who acts as host, guide and educator.
While an itinerary is suggested to take advantage of the more comfortable temperature ranges and the enhanced game-viewing opportunities, it is also important to take time to relax and enjoy the camp surroundings, and to immerse oneself in the environment.
The itineraries below are not set in stone. Guests are encouraged to discuss their preferences with their ranger on arrival, and everything possible will be done to accommodate them within the confines of the camp routine, and with consideration to safari companions sharing the same ranger and vehicle. For those not keen on an early-morning wake-up call, a later departure can be arranged from the camp to meet up with the early-morning drive.
Summer itinerary (September to May)
05h30
Wake-up call by your ranger heralds the dawn.
06h00
Meet your ranger and safari companions on the safari deck as the sun rises over the bushveld. Hot and cold beverages and a light snack are available. The early-morning game drive follows.
09h30
Return to camp where a hearty brunch awaits you in the air-conditioned dining room or on the expansive safari deck. For the more energetic, join the bush walk after brunch. Alternatively, relax around the pool, browse through the safari boutique, work out in the small gym or perhaps take a siesta to make up for that early-morning wake-up call. Feel free to explore the camp but please do not walk beyond the camp perimeters unless accompanied by a ranger.
15h00
Meet on the expansive safari deck for hot and cold beverages and a light snack before departing on another unforgettable safari. A cooler box with the veritable sundowners are carried on the Land Rover, and a consensus among your fellow safari-ites will determine whether a G & T is worth more than a leopard sighting! As darkness approaches, your ranger will scan the bush with a powerful spotlight and will point out elusive nocturnal wildlife – a highlight of the day’s safari. As darkness settles over the bush, look out for the Milky Way and try to find the Southern Cross.
20h00
Return to camp, allowing time for you to freshen up before meeting your friends and rangers for pre-dinner drinks in the cosy Safari Bar.
20h30
Dinner is served in the reed-enclosed boma under an ancient jackalberry tree. Alternatively, when the weather is suitable, a candlelit dinner is served on the safari deck overlooking the Sand River. While seated around a log fire under the starry African sky, enjoy the superb food and excellent wines – yet another highlight of the MalaMala experience.
Winter itinerary (June to August)
06h30
Wake-up call by your ranger heralds the dawn.
07h00
Meet your ranger and safari companions for early morning snacks and coffee. The morning game drive follows.
10h00
Return to camp for brunch. You are now able to relax around the pool, work out in the gym, browse through the safari boutique or perhaps take a siesta to make up for the early-morning wake-up call. Feel free to explore the camp but please do not walk beyond the camp perimeters unless accompanied by a ranger.
15h00
Meet on the expansive safari deck for hot and cold beverages and a light snack before departing on another unforgettable safari. A cooler box with the veritable sundowners are carried on the Land Rover, and a consensus among your fellow safari-ites will determine whether a G & T is worth more than a leopard sighting! An African sunset is a memorable and often emotional sight. As darkness approaches, your ranger will scan the bush with a powerful spotlight and will point out elusive nocturnal wildlife – a highlight of the day’s safari. As darkness settles over the bush, look out for the Milky Way – a truly spectacular sight – or try to find the Southern Cross.
19h00
Return to camp, allowing time for you to freshen up before meeting your friends and rangers for pre-dinner drinks in the cosy Safari Bar and a delicious dinner in the reed-enclosed boma under an ancient jackalberry tree. While seated around a log fire under the starry African sky, enjoy the superb food and excellent wines – yet another highlight of the MalaMala experience. Alternatively, when the weather is suitable, a candlelit dinner is served on the safari deck overlooking the Sand River.