When it comes to the ultimate safari experience, combining two of South Africa’s most renowned game reserves offers an unparalleled journey through diverse landscapes and thrilling wildlife encounters. From the serene beauty of the Makalali Reserve to the adrenaline-pumping action of MalaMala Private Game Reserve, this itinerary takes you on a seamless adventure that caters to both your sense of adventure and relaxation whilst tracking the Big Five.
MCH Tented Camp – Garonga Safari Co: A Tranquil Retreat Amidst the Wilderness
Start your journey by flying straight into the heart of the wilderness on a Fed Air flight to Garonga’s private airstrip. From here, you’ll be whisked away to the intimate MCH Tented Camp, a hidden gem tucked away on a koppie (small hill) overlooking the wild beauty of Makalali and the distant Drakensberg Mountains.
MCH offers an exclusive, tranquil escape with only four luxurious tents, ensuring you experience the kind of privacy and attention that only a small camp can provide. The tents themselves are nothing short of spectacular — stylishly designed with every comfort in mind. Each one is air-conditioned, boasts WiFi, and features an en-suite bathroom with a decadent bathtub and both indoor and outdoor showers. A well-stocked bar, a cozy indoor lounge, and a private deck complete the experience, offering the perfect space for you to unwind after a day of adventure.
What sets Garonga apart is its holistic safari experience. Your days begin with guided game drives where you’ll have the opportunity to track animals in their natural habitat. Whether you’re following the tracks of a lion or watching a herd of elephants graze, every moment feels authentic and thrilling. Back at camp, indulge in a soothing massage in the sala, or for a truly unique experience, spend a night under the stars on the dedicated sleep-out deck, exclusively available to guests of MCH Tented Camp.
MalaMala: The Thrill of Big Game in Legendary Territory
After a 2-3 night stay at MCH, you’ll hop on another FedAir flight, this time heading to the MalaMala airstrip — the gateway to one of South Africa’s most iconic game reserves. Adjacent to both the Sabi Sands and Kruger National Park, MalaMala is famed for its high concentration of big game, particularly leopards and lions. Its vast size and prime location have solidified its reputation as a legend in the safari world.
Upon arrival, you’ll be welcomed to the exclusive Sable Camp. An intimate, all-suite camp with contemporary African-inspired decor, Sable Camp offers an upscale yet unpretentious experience in the heart of the bush. The spacious suites provide an oasis of comfort, each with expansive views over either a waterhole or the river, ensuring that your connection with nature is never far away.
Game drives at MalaMala are an adrenaline fuelled experience. With such an abundance of wildlife, especially apex predators, the drives are often filled with exhilarating encounters — from watching leopards languidly resting on branches to witnessing the raw power of lions on a hunt. With an expert guide leading the way, every safari is an adventure in itself.
When you return to camp after a day in the bush, there’s no better place to relax than the pool, or perhaps on the deck with a gin and tonic in hand, overlooking the river. The sights and sounds of the wilderness continue as elephants, buffalo, and other wildlife wander past, making for a perfect end to your day.
The Best of Both Worlds
Combining MCH Tented Camp at Garonga Safari Co. and Sable Camp at MalaMala creates a safari experience that offers both serenity and action in equal measure. Garonga’s intimate and peaceful retreat provides the perfect beginning to a Big Five safari, where you can reconnect with nature in the most luxurious of surroundings. Then, a shift to MalaMala’s high-intensity game viewing guarantees that your safari journey culminates with thrilling wildlife sightings. Both camps leaving you with memories of unforgettable moments.
Whether you’re seeking the quiet serenity of the bush or the electrifying rush of close encounters with Africa’s most iconic animals, this two-reserve combination ensures that you experience the best that South Africa’s wild heart has to offer.