A great deal has been written about Africa, it's animals and the bush experience. Nothing can, however equal the vivid memories of having lived the MABALINGWE experience. No stress, no malaria, no pollution and days spent at MABALINGWE are a reminder of some of life's forgotten pleasures. MABALINGWE is the perfect "all year round big five experience".
Spread over more than 12 500 hectares of soft rolling hills, this malaria-free reserve is host to the big 5, and also hippo, giraffe, hyena and sable to name but a few of the 36 species of wildlife. For the bird lovers there are more than 250 species of bird to be spotted. Mabalingwe offers affordable accommodation from self-catering chalets to en-suite lodge rooms and rustic bush camps. Enjoy game viewing from open safari vehicles or atop the ambling gait of the horses, with sleepovers at the various bush camps. For the more energetic there are a number of hiking trails on offer.
In our tradition of 'something for everyone' there are a number of recreational activities to be found, or great fun to be held on one of the tennis courts or the squash court. After a memorable day of activities, relax with a superb meal in the Tshukudu restaurant, and then sipping cocktails against the backdrop of the setting sun, listening to nocturnal calls of the wild.
The service and friendliness of the staff combined with the wonder of the wild will ensure you leave Mabalingwe with unforgettable memories and the realization that you are indeed 'richer' for partaking in this breathtaking experience.
The Tlou Lodge is made up of 53 stylish chalets, accommodates a total of 106 visitors and is the ideal "getaway" home for those not wishing to be involved in anything more than nature and its animal life.
There are five thatched camps stretching from Kubu Camp at the northern tip to the southernmost Ingwe Camp situated next to the main Mabalingwe camp buildings. The four and six bed chalets provide the traveller with "home from home" comforts and whether it's a summer or winter visit Mabalingwe has got to be judged as the perfect "all year" round experience.
Pitsi Bush Camp caters for a group of ten people, hidden away from the rest of the camps on the reserve, and for those who feel the need for ultimate privacy and a great bush experience, this camp is definately a must.
Kalahari Tented Camp is privately situated at the foot of the mountains rolling through Mabalingwe, and was developed for family and group getaways.
Mabalingwe Nature Reserve Amenities
SATSA Member
RCI Approved
Cots Available
Babysitting
Microwave in unit
SABC, MNET + Satellite in Room
Hairdrier available
Toiletries available
Fans in room
Heating in room
Safe in room/reception
Tea/Coffee facilities in room
Bar/Fridge in room
Safe open off-street parking
Laundromat
Self-Braai area
Cocktail bar/pub
Restaurant / Dining Room
Credit cards accepted
Conference facilities
Internet/e-mail facilities
Curio Shop on site
Provisions shop on site
Petrol Station
Games/entertainment room
Play-Ground
Sauna
Swimming pool
Tennis Court
Volleyball Area
Mini Golf
Hikes
Horse-riding
Mountain bikes or trails
4x4 trails
Game Viewing
Bird Watching
No pets allowed
Area Attractions
Game Drives
Experience Africa in an open game drive vehicle. Dwelling through the home ranges of the rhino and buffalo. Sharing a moment in the presence of the mighty elephant or coming face-to-face with the highly elusive leopard. Game drives are available all through the day at different times.
Night Drives
Enjoy a night drive with our trained and qualified field guides to shine some light on nocturnal animals such as owls, jackal, bush babies and many other creatures of the night, a very educational experience.
Guests at Mabalingwe are also allowed to do game viewing with their own vehicles during day time only.
Horse Back Safari
Enjoy Africa on horse back as the first pioneers did, surrounded by fresh air and the sweet smells of the bush. A variety of times are available from early in the mornings to sunset rides and a one and a half hour ride will make sure that you see most of the animal and nature life.