Royal Malewane Portfolio

Royal Malewane represents the absolute pinnacle of luxury safaris in South Africa, offering discerning travelers an unparalleled combination of bespoke safaris and world-class hospitality in the heart of the Greater Kruger National Park.
This exceptional safari destination has established itself as one of the best Africa safaris available, consistently delivering high end safari experiences that exceed even the most sophisticated traveler's expectations. With its collection of intimate lodges and private villas, Royal Malewane provides the ultimate luxury southern African safaris experience, where every detail is meticulously crafted to create unforgettable memories in Africa's most pristine wilderness settings.
Location and Introduction to Royal Malewane
Royal Malewane is strategically situated in the prestigious Thornybush Private Game Reserve, which forms an integral part of South Africa's renowned Greater Kruger National Park ecosystem. This prime location places guests at the epicenter of one of Africa's most spectacular wildlife destinations, offering unrivaled access to the continent's most diverse and abundant game populations. The lodge's position within the Greater Kruger conservation area ensures that visitors experience authentic Kruger national park safaris while enjoying the exclusivity and personalized service that defines truly upmarket safaris to south Africa. The reserve's strategic location between the Blyde River Valley and the main Kruger National Park provides an exceptional setting for luxury south Africa safari experiences, where the African bush extends as far as the eye can see.
The Royal Malewane portfolio encompasses four distinct luxury safaris accommodations, each offering its own unique character and ambiance while maintaining the highest standards of elegance and comfort. Malewane Lodge serves as the quintessential luxury African bush lodge, providing guests with front-row seats to Africa's most pristine wilderness settings, while the contemporary Farmstead blends rustic style with a warm, homely atmosphere that appeals to those seeking bespoke safaris with a more relaxed feel. Waterside redefines the traditional safari experience with fearless splashes of color and distinctive design, and the upcoming Masiya's Camp, named after legendary tracker Wilson Masiya, promises to add vibrant color to the canvas of luxury tented accommodation. This diverse collection ensures that Royal Malewane can accommodate the varied preferences of guests seeking the best Africa safaris available today.
Beyond the main lodges, Royal Malewane offers three exclusive private villas that represent the ultimate in high end safari accommodation. Africa House, originally the Biden family homestead, has been completely reinvented as the ultimate safari villa, capable of accommodating larger groups seeking complete privacy and personalized service. Waterside House captures the tranquility of the bush in a spacious villa setting, while the Farmhouse provides a private oasis with tailored services that elevate every moment of the safari experience. These private villa options position Royal Malewane as a leader in luxury southern African safaris, offering guests the rare opportunity to enjoy exclusive use facilities with dedicated staff and customized itineraries that epitomize truly bespoke safaris.
Accessing Royal Malewane via Air Travel
Royal Malewane's accessibility via air travel makes it an ideal destination for international visitors seeking seamless access to luxury safaris without compromising on comfort or convenience. The lodge is strategically positioned near Hoedspruit Airport, which serves as the primary gateway for guests traveling to this exclusive luxury south Africa safari destination.
Regular flights from Johannesburg Airport/Cape Town Airport to Hoedspruit Airport make this a seamless transfer. The proximity to this regional airport, located just a few kilometers from the reserve's northern boundary, allows for efficient transfers directly to the lodge via specialized game-viewing vehicles, ensuring that the safari experience begins the moment guests arrive.
A second option is available for our VIP's preferring private charters, Federal Air departs from OR Tambo International airport daily to the private airstrip of Royal Malewane situated at the lodge facilities. This convenient access point has made Royal Malewane increasingly popular among discerning travelers seeking upmarket safaris to south Africa with minimal travel time from arrival to accommodation.
The seamless integration of air travel with ground transfers ensures that guests can transition effortlessly from international travel to their luxury southern African safaris experience.
Habitat and Wildlife at Royal Malewane
Royal Malewane is set within the Thornybush Private Game Reserve, a diverse wilderness area that forms part of the Greater Kruger National Park. The terrain here is a striking mosaic of open grasslands, mixed woodlands, tangled thickets, and thorny bush, interspersed with rivers, waterholes, and dry riverbeds. This rich variety of habitats creates ideal conditions for a broad spectrum of wildlife, supporting both iconic and lesser-known species throughout the year. The reserve’s unfenced boundary with Kruger National Park allows animals to roam freely, enhancing the authenticity and abundance of the wildlife experience at Royal Malewane.
The reserve is renowned for its exceptional concentrations of Africa’s most celebrated species, including the Big Five—lion, leopard, elephant, rhino, and buffalo. Sightings of leopards and wild dogs are particularly notable, with Royal Malewane being recognized for offering rare opportunities to observe these elusive predators. In addition to these headline species, the reserve is home to a remarkable diversity of wildlife. This biodiversity ensures that every game drive or guided walk provides guests with the chance to encounter both the famous and the unexpected.
Birdlife is a major highlight, with more than 300 bird species recorded, including up to four species of roller—broad-billed, lilac-breasted, purple, and European rollers—making it a paradise for birdwatchers. The reserve’s year-round appeal is further enhanced by seasonal changes: the wetter months (October to April) bring lush green landscapes, baby animals, and migratory birds, while the dry season (May to September) offers easier wildlife viewing as animals congregate around water sources and the vegetation recedes. This dynamic environment, combined with the expertise of Royal Malewane’s guiding team, ensures that every safari is both thrilling and immersive, making it a premier destination for luxury, bespoke, and high-end safaris in southern Africa.
Accommodation at Royal Malewane: Suites, Lodges, and Private Villas
Royal Malewane offers a diverse portfolio of luxury safari accommodations, each designed to deliver the highest standards of comfort, exclusivity, and immersion in the African wilderness. Whether you seek classic safari elegance, contemporary design, or the privacy of a villa, the lodges and villas at Royal Malewane set the benchmark for high end safari experiences in South Africa.
Malewane Lodge 
Malewane Lodge is the original and most classic of Royal Malewane’s offerings, exuding the romance and grandeur of a traditional safari lodge. Accommodation here comprises six Luxury Suites and two Royal Suites, each thoughtfully positioned for privacy and sweeping bush views.
Luxury Suites: Each suite (approx. 165m²) is an elegant sanctuary for two, featuring a private wooden deck with a plunge pool, an outdoor sala, and an en suite bathroom with both indoor and outdoor showers. The interiors are adorned with dark woods and colonial accents, offering a sense of timeless luxury. These suites are ideal for couples or solo travelers seeking solitude and immersion in nature.
Royal Suites: Significantly larger (approx. 510m²), the Royal Suites feature two en-suite bedrooms, a vast living and dining area, and a sprawling deck with its own private pool. These suites offer the utmost exclusivity and are perfect for families or small groups wanting extra space and privacy. Children of all ages are welcome in the Royal Suites.
What sets Malewane Lodge apart is the seamless blend of classic bushveld style and modern amenities, including air conditioning, fireplaces, minibars, and WiFi, ensuring guests enjoy every comfort while surrounded by untamed wilderness.
The Farmstead 
The Farmstead is an intimate, contemporary lodge just a short drive south of Malewane Lodge, offering a fresh, laid-back approach to luxury southern African safaris. It consists of three Luxury Farm Suites and the exclusive-use Farmhouse villa.
Luxury Farm Suites: Each suite is a private oasis, with spacious en-suite bathrooms, indoor and outdoor showers, and a private deck featuring a plunge pool. The interiors combine rustic farmhouse charm with sophisticated, contemporary touches—bright accents and earthy tones create a homely yet refined atmosphere. These suites are designed for couples or small families (children over 10 welcome) seeking tranquility and a strong connection to the bush.
The Farmhouse: This exclusive-use villa offers three full bedrooms plus a smaller children’s room, making it perfect for families or groups. Each bedroom features an en-suite bathroom, and the villa includes a private pool and expansive living spaces. The Farmhouse is ideal for those desiring privacy and flexibility without sacrificing access to the lodge’s amenities and services.
Farmstead’s design encourages guests to feel at home in the wilderness, with thoughtful touches and panoramic bushveld views from every suite.
Waterside 
Waterside is the newest addition to the Royal Malewane portfolio, characterized by bold, playful design and a focus on space and light. The lodge offers four Luxury Suites, the two-bedroom Baobab Suite, two interconnected Aloe Rooms, and the exclusive-use Waterside House.
Luxury Suites: Each suite (approx. 155m²) is exceptionally spacious, featuring a large en-suite bathroom with a freestanding bath, indoor and outdoor showers, and a private deck. The interiors are vibrant and contemporary, reflecting the colors of the surrounding bush. Children of all ages are welcome when booking a private vehicle.
Baobab Suite: This two-bedroom suite (approx. 280m²) is designed for families or friends traveling together, offering two en-suite bedrooms, generous living areas, and a private deck. The suite provides the comforts of home with the excitement of the bush just outside your door.
Aloe Rooms: These interconnected rooms are ideal for families or groups needing flexible sleeping arrangements, with all the amenities expected of a high-end safari lodge.
Waterside House: The exclusive-use villa at Waterside features four bedrooms, making it perfect for larger families or groups seeking privacy and personalized service. The villa boasts spacious living areas, a private pool, and direct access to all Waterside’s amenities.
Waterside stands out for its bold design, family-friendly atmosphere, and the flexibility it offers to guests seeking a bespoke safari experience.
Masiya’s Camp 
Opening in April 2025, Masiya’s Camp is a luxurious tented camp named in honor of legendary master tracker Wilson Masiya. The camp features six canvas-draped suites, each uniquely styled to blend vintage and modern elements, and designed to immerse guests in the surrounding wilderness.
Luxury Tented Suites: Each suite (approx. 230m²) offers a spacious indoor and outdoor lounge area, floor-to-ceiling windows, and a private wooden deck with a heated plunge pool. The en-suite bathrooms include both indoor and outdoor showers, providing a seamless connection to the bush. The décor combines exotic and traditional touches, ensuring every suite is distinctive and memorable. These suites are ideal for couples or solo travelers seeking the adventure of a tented camp with the comforts of a luxury safari lodge. Children over 10 are welcome.
Masiya’s Camp sets itself apart with its under-canvas luxury, unique styling, and a strong sense of place inspired by one of Africa’s most respected trackers.
Private Villas: The Ultimate in Exclusive Safari Luxury
Africa House 
Africa House is the flagship exclusive-use villa at Malewane Lodge, offering six en-suite bedrooms and accommodating up to 12 guests. Each bedroom features a private outside shower and deck, allowing guests to enjoy the bush in complete privacy.
The villa’s interiors are vibrant and eclectic, blending traditional African elements with modern luxury. Expansive living and dining areas, a long communal room, and a large outdoor pool make Africa House ideal for multi-generational families or groups of friends seeking a high end safari retreat.
Africa House is fully serviced, with a dedicated team including a private chef, guide, and tracker, ensuring a bespoke safari experience tailored to your group’s preferences.
The Farmhouse 
Located at The Farmstead, The Farmhouse is a private villa with three full bedrooms and a smaller children’s room, accommodating families or groups in a homely yet sophisticated setting.
Each bedroom has its own en-suite bathroom, and the villa includes a private pool and generous indoor and outdoor living spaces. The Farmhouse is perfect for those seeking privacy, flexibility, and direct access to the amenities and services of The Farmstead.
Waterside House 
Waterside House is the exclusive-use villa at Waterside, featuring four bedrooms and offering a spacious, contemporary retreat for families or groups.
The villa includes expansive living and dining areas, a private pool, and direct access to all the facilities of Waterside Lodge. Its design emphasizes light, space, and playful color, creating a relaxed yet luxurious atmosphere for a luxury south Africa safari.
Across all lodges and villas, Royal Malewane’s accommodations are defined by their generous space, private plunge pools, panoramic bush views, and a seamless blend of classic safari romance with modern luxury. Each suite and villa is equipped with air conditioning, WiFi, minibars, in-room safes, and both indoor and outdoor showers, ensuring the highest level of comfort and convenience for every guest.
The diversity of accommodation styles—from classic to contemporary, from lodge suites to exclusive-use villas—ensures that every traveler, whether seeking a romantic escape, a family adventure, or a group celebration, will find the perfect setting for their luxury safari in South Africa. The attention to detail, privacy, and personalized service at Royal Malewane set a new standard for upmarket safaris to South Africa, making it a top choice for those seeking the best Africa safaris experience.
Facilities and Amenities at Royal Malewane’s Main Lodges
Royal Malewane’s collection of lodges offers a variety of luxurious communal facilities designed to complement the exquisite accommodation and immersive safari experiences. Each lodge provides its own unique ambiance and style, with exceptional dining, wellness, and relaxation amenities that elevate the luxury safari experience to new heights.
Malewane Lodge Facilities
Malewane Lodge, the flagship of the Royal Malewane portfolio, embodies classic safari elegance with a rich colonial atmosphere. The lodge’s communal areas include several inviting lounges and a grand bar stocked with an extensive selection of premium spirits and wines. Guests can relax in the main lounge, which features open fireplaces and sweeping views of the bush, or choose to unwind on the expansive outdoor deck overlooking a waterhole that attracts frequent wildlife visitors.
The dining experience at Malewane Lodge is renowned for its gourmet cuisine, with menus crafted from fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Guests can enjoy meals in the formal dining room or opt for more intimate dining settings such as the boma, where traditional African dishes are served under the stars around a crackling fire. The lodge also offers private dining options for bespoke safari experiences.
The Royal Waters Spa at Malewane Lodge is a highlight, offering a full suite of treatments including massages, facials, and holistic therapies. The spa features multiple treatment rooms, a steam room, hot and cold African baths, a hair salon, and a heated lap pool. These facilities provide guests with a sanctuary of wellness and relaxation amidst the wild.
The Farmstead Facilities
The Farmstead offers a more informal and contemporary take on safari luxury, with communal spaces designed to foster a relaxed, homely atmosphere. The main lodge building includes a cozy lounge with comfortable seating, a fireplace, and a well-curated library for quiet moments. The bar area serves a curated selection of local and international beverages, perfect for pre- or post-game drive relaxation.
Dining at The Farmstead is characterized by fresh, seasonal menus that emphasize farm-to-table principles. Meals are served in an intimate dining room or on outdoor decks with panoramic views of the bushveld, allowing guests to connect with nature while enjoying world-class cuisine. The Farmstead also offers private dining experiences tailored to guest preferences.
Wellness facilities at The Farmstead include a boutique spa offering a range of treatments designed to refresh and rejuvenate. The spa’s tranquil setting and expert therapists ensure guests experience a holistic approach to wellness, perfectly complementing the adventurous spirit of a bespoke safari.
Waterside Facilities
Waterside stands out for its bold, vibrant design and family-friendly atmosphere. The lodge’s communal areas are spacious and light-filled, featuring multiple lounges with modern furnishings and an artful mix of colors inspired by the surrounding bush. The bar offers an extensive selection of craft cocktails, wines, and spirits, making it a lively social hub.
Dining at Waterside is a highlight, with menus that blend international flavors with African influences, served in a stylish indoor dining room or on the large outdoor deck overlooking a waterhole. The lodge also offers a traditional boma dining experience, where guests can enjoy meals around an open fire beneath the stars.
The Waterside Spa provides a serene retreat with a variety of treatments focusing on relaxation and rejuvenation. Facilities include treatment rooms, a steam room, and a heated swimming pool. The spa’s contemporary design and tranquil ambiance make it a perfect complement to the lodge’s energetic vibe.
Masiya’s Camp Facilities
Masiya’s Camp, the newest addition to the Royal Malewane portfolio, offers an exclusive and intimate setting with a focus on blending luxury with the authentic tented safari experience. The communal areas are designed with natural materials and vintage safari aesthetics, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere.
The dining area at Masiya’s Camp offers gourmet cuisine served in a stylish mess tent or under the stars in the boma. The camp emphasizes personalized dining experiences, with menus tailored to guest preferences and dietary requirements.
Wellness facilities at Masiya’s Camp include a boutique spa offering a selection of massages and treatments designed to relax guests after a day in the bush. The camp’s spa area is intimate and peaceful, providing a perfect sanctuary for rest and rejuvenation.
Royal Malewane’s varied lodge facilities ensure every guest enjoys a seamless blend of comfort, indulgence, and connection with the African wilderness. Whether you prefer the classic grandeur of Malewane Lodge, the relaxed charm of The Farmstead, the vibrant energy of Waterside, or the intimate luxury of Masiya’s Camp, you can expect world-class dining, rejuvenating wellness experiences, and elegant communal spaces that perfectly complement your luxury south Africa safari. These amenities, combined with exceptional service, position Royal Malewane as a leader in upmarket safaris to South Africa and the ultimate destination for bespoke safaris in the Greater Kruger region.
Signature Activities offered at Royal Malewane 
Royal Malewane offers an exceptional array of activities across its lodges ensuring guests experience the best of luxury safaris and bespoke safaris in South Africa’s Greater Kruger National Park. Below is a concise summary of the key activities available:
✦ Game Drives: Led by highly qualified guides and trackers, game drives are the cornerstone of the Royal Malewane safari experience. Guests explore the 15,000-hectare Thornybush Private Nature Reserve in open Land Rovers, seeking the iconic Big Five and other wildlife in their natural habitat.
✦ Guided Bush Walks: For a more intimate encounter with the African bush, guided walks offer the chance to discover smaller creatures, plants, and the intricate ecosystem on foot, including the possibility of tracking the Big Five up close.
✦ Birding Safaris: With over 300 bird species in the reserve, birding safaris cater to both amateur and expert birdwatchers. Guides tailor experiences to guests’ interests, helping tick off rare and colorful species from their bird lists.
✦ Conservation Activities: Guests can participate in specially curated conservation projects, gaining insight into efforts to protect endangered species and contributing to wildlife preservation alongside experts.
✦ Photographic Safaris: Designed for photography enthusiasts, these safaris focus on capturing perfect wildlife moments, guided by expert photographers who understand animal behavior and light conditions.
✦ Scenic Helicopter Flights: Offering breathtaking aerial views of the Greater Kruger wilderness, Drakensberg mountains, and Blyde River Canyon, helicopter flights provide a unique perspective on the landscape. Some flights include excursions such as the Graskop Gorge Glass Lift.
✦ Star Safari: Far from city lights, guests can enjoy guided stargazing sessions that reveal the southern hemisphere’s constellations and celestial wonders.
✦ Little Explorers Programme: Tailored activities introduce children to the wonders of nature and wildlife, fostering curiosity and connection with the environment from an early age.
✦ Kruger Park Golf Excursions: Guests can enjoy helicopter transfers to Leopard Creek Country Club, one of South Africa’s premier golf courses, blending sport with stunning natural surroundings.
✦ Celebrations and Private Dining: Royal Malewane offers bespoke event planning for special occasions, from intimate dinners in the bush to milestone celebrations, all wrapped in luxurious safari style.
✦ Spa and Wellness Activities: Beyond treatments, wellness offerings include yoga, meditation, and gym facilities to nurture both body and mind during the safari stay.
These activities, available across Royal Malewane’s lodges, combine to create a rich and varied high end safari experience that caters to every interest and age group, making it one of the most sought-after destinations for luxury southern African safaris and Kruger national park safaris. For a more detailed look at activities we include a dedicated section at the bottom of the page.
Safari Considerations – Why Choose Royal Malewane
Choosing Royal Malewane for your luxury safari in South Africa means selecting an extraordinary destination that seamlessly combines world-class hospitality, unrivaled wildlife experiences, and a deep commitment to conservation. What truly distinguishes Royal Malewane from other high end safari lodges is its unique blend of exclusivity, expert guiding, and authentic wilderness immersion within one of Africa’s most pristine ecosystems — the Thornybush Private Game Reserve, part of the Greater Kruger National Park.
What Makes Royal Malewane Special?
Royal Malewane is renowned for its exceptional guiding team, led by master tracker Wilson Masiya, whose legendary skills elevate every game drive into an unforgettable adventure. The lodge’s unfenced boundary with Kruger National Park allows wildlife to roam freely, providing guests with unparalleled sightings of the Big Five and rare species such as wild dogs and leopards. Beyond wildlife, Royal Malewane’s commitment to conservation is evident through its active involvement in anti-poaching initiatives, community upliftment projects, and scientific research, ensuring your safari contributes positively to the preservation of this precious wilderness.
The diverse portfolio of lodges and private villas caters to every style of traveler, from the classic colonial elegance of Malewane Lodge to the contemporary vibrancy of Waterside and the intimate luxury of Masiya’s Camp. Each venue offers bespoke experiences designed to match your preferences, whether you seek romantic seclusion, family adventures, or group celebrations. This flexibility, combined with impeccable service and attention to detail, positions Royal Malewane as a top choice for bespoke safaris and upmarket safaris to South Africa.
Secrets VIP Travel – Crafting Your Perfect Safari
At Secrets VIP Travel, we specialize in designing tailor-made safari itineraries that highlight the very best of Royal Malewane and the surrounding region. Our expert team understands the nuances of luxury travel and works closely with you to create a personalized journey that reflects your interests, timing, and style. Whether you want to combine your stay with other iconic South African destinations, arrange private transfers, or include exclusive experiences such as helicopter flights and private dining, Secrets VIP Travel ensures every detail is flawlessly executed, delivering a truly unforgettable luxury southern African safari.
Best Time to Visit
The ideal time to visit Royal Malewane is during the dry winter months from May to September. During this period, the bush thins out, and animals congregate around water sources, making wildlife viewing particularly rewarding. The cooler temperatures also make game drives more comfortable. However, the green summer season (October to April) offers lush landscapes, newborn animals, and spectacular birding opportunities, appealing to those seeking a vibrant and dynamic safari experience. Each season offers unique advantages, so your choice can be tailored to your preferences with our expert guidance.
What to Pack
Packing for a Royal Malewane safari should balance comfort, practicality, and style. Essential items include neutral-colored clothing (avoid bright colors), lightweight long-sleeved shirts and trousers for sun and insect protection, a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and sturdy walking shoes. Evenings can be cool, so layering with warm jackets or fleece is recommended. Don’t forget your camera with extra batteries, binoculars, and personal toiletries. Royal Malewane provides laundry services, so packing light is possible. For spa visits, bring swimwear and comfortable attire.
Health and Safety Considerations
Guests should consult their healthcare provider regarding recommended vaccinations and malaria prophylaxis before traveling to the Greater Kruger region. Royal Malewane maintains rigorous health and safety protocols, including well-trained medical staff on-site and emergency evacuation plans. The lodges are equipped with first aid facilities, and guides are trained in wilderness first aid. The reserve’s unfenced boundaries mean wildlife encounters are part of the experience, but all activities are conducted under expert supervision to ensure guest safety. Adhering to guide instructions and safari etiquette is essential for a safe and enjoyable visit.
Choosing Royal Malewane through Secrets VIP Travel guarantees a bespoke safari experience that combines the best of wildlife, luxury, and personalized service. With expert itinerary planning, insider knowledge, and access to exclusive experiences, we ensure your journey into the heart of South Africa’s wilderness is seamless, safe, and spectacular—truly the pinnacle of luxury safaris and Kruger national park safaris.
Crafting Your Perfect Luxury Safari
Planning a luxury safari with Royal Malewane through Secrets VIP Travel allows you to create a truly personalized and seamless journey that combines the best of South Africa’s wildlife, culture, and luxury experiences. Our expertise in crafting bespoke safari itineraries ensures that every detail—from accommodations to transfers and activities—is tailored to your preferences, making your African adventure unforgettable.
✴️ Seamless Safari Extensions to Cape Town and the Winelands
To complement your immersive Kruger National Park safari, Secrets VIP Travel offers exclusive extensions to iconic South African destinations such as Cape Town and the Winelands. Cape Town’s vibrant city life, stunning coastal scenery, and world-class dining provide a perfect urban contrast to the wilderness. You can explore Table Mountain, the Cape Winelands, and the Cape of Good Hope, enjoying luxury boutique hotels and private tours.
The nearby Winelands region offers exquisite wine tasting experiences amid breathtaking vineyard landscapes, with access to some of the country’s finest estates and gourmet restaurants. These extensions allow you to blend your luxury south Africa safari with cultural and culinary highlights, creating a well-rounded and enriching holiday.
✴️ Luxury Train Journeys for an Unforgettable Experience
For travelers seeking a unique and indulgent way to traverse Southern Africa, Secrets VIP Travel arranges luxury train journeys such as the renowned Rovos Rail and Blue Train. These elegant trains offer opulent suites, fine dining, and spectacular views as you travel between major destinations, including routes connecting Johannesburg, Cape Town, and Victoria Falls. Combining a luxury train ride with your Royal Malewane safari adds a timeless and romantic dimension to your trip, perfect for celebrating special occasions or simply savoring the journey in style.
✴️ Expert Itinerary Planning by Secrets VIP Travel
Our dedicated team at Secrets VIP Travel works closely with you to design a bespoke itinerary that aligns perfectly with your interests, travel dates, and budget. Whether you desire private game drives, helicopter transfers, exclusive dining experiences, or multi-destination tours, we handle all logistics and arrangements to ensure a smooth and stress-free journey. Our deep knowledge of Southern Africa’s top luxury lodges and travel routes guarantees access to the best rates and exclusive offers.
By choosing Secrets VIP Travel, you gain a trusted partner who transforms your safari dreams into reality—crafting a personalized adventure that highlights the magic of Royal Malewane alongside the diverse wonders of South Africa and beyond.
Royal Malewane is more than just a destination—it is the gateway to an extraordinary world where unrivaled wildlife encounters, exquisite luxury, and heartfelt conservation converge. Whether you seek the timeless elegance of classic safari lodges, the vibrant charm of contemporary retreats, or the privacy of exclusive villas, every moment here is crafted to exceed your highest expectations.
With Secrets VIP Travel by your side, your journey becomes a bespoke masterpiece, seamlessly blending the wild wonders of the Greater Kruger with South Africa’s cultural and scenic treasures. The question is not whether you will experience Royal Malewane, but how you will choose to immerse yourself in its magic—and what unforgettable stories you will take home. Royal Malewane – Where Wilderness Meets Elegance.
RATES AND PROMOTIONS
download 2025 accommodation rates here:
IMAGE GALLERY
Activities offered at Royal Malewane

Game Drives
The Guides and Trackers at Royal Malewane are the most qualified team in South Africa. They are exceptionally skilled at interpreting the sights and sounds of the bushveld, and making the ecosystem come alive for you. Game drives are the core experience around which each day on safari revolves, and the very best way to see the varied landscapes of the Greater Kruger and encounter the many diverse species that live there.
Your Guide and Tracker share an intuitive bond, each using their unique yet complementary skills to create thrilling yet entirely safe experiences that you will never forget. Whatever you’re most interested in, your Guide and Tracker can tailor your game drives to focus on your passion.

Guided Bush Walks
Guided bush walks offer a more intimate and immersive way to experience the African wilderness. Accompanied by skilled guides, guests explore the bush on foot, discovering the smaller wonders that often go unnoticed on vehicle safaris. From identifying animal tracks and insect life to learning about indigenous plants and their medicinal uses, these walks deepen your understanding of the ecosystem and foster a closer connection to nature.
Walking quietly through the bush also allows for a sensory experience—listening to bird calls, feeling the textures of the flora, and observing the subtle signs of wildlife nearby. These walks are conducted with a strong emphasis on safety and respect for the environment, providing a thrilling yet secure way to engage with the wilderness on a personal level.

Birding Safaris
The Thornybush Reserve is a birdwatcher’s paradise, home to over 300 bird species, including many rare and colorful varieties. Birding safaris at Royal Malewane are guided by experts who tailor the experience to your level of interest and expertise. Whether you’re a casual observer or a serious twitcher, the guides help you spot species such as the lilac-breasted roller, African fish eagle, and various hornbills, enhancing your appreciation of the bush’s vibrant avian life.
These safaris often take place during game drives or bush walks, allowing guests to combine birdwatching with other wildlife experiences. The guides share fascinating insights into bird behavior, migration patterns, and calls, making each outing both educational and enjoyable for all ages.

Wildlife Photography
Photographic safaris at Royal Malewane are designed to help guests capture the magic of the African wilderness through their lenses. Led by guides experienced in wildlife photography, these safaris focus on positioning, lighting, and animal behavior to maximize your chances of stunning shots. Whether you are a professional photographer or an enthusiastic amateur, you’ll receive expert advice on composition, camera settings, and timing.
The reserve’s diverse landscapes and abundant wildlife provide endless opportunities for dramatic and intimate images. Photographic safaris often include extended stops at prime viewing spots, allowing you to patiently wait for the perfect moment. This experience not only enhances your photography skills but also deepens your connection to the natural world.

Conservation Activities
Royal Malewane’s commitment to conservation goes beyond observation—it invites guests to engage with vital efforts to protect the region’s wildlife. Through special conservation activities, visitors gain firsthand insight into anti-poaching initiatives, rhino monitoring, and ongoing research projects conducted by the lodge’s dedicated Conservation & Research Centre. These activities highlight the challenges and successes of preserving Africa’s biodiversity.
Participating in conservation efforts provides a meaningful dimension to your safari, transforming it into a journey that supports and celebrates wildlife protection. Guests learn about the importance of sustainable tourism and how their stay contributes to the long-term health of the ecosystem, fostering a deeper sense of responsibility and connection.

Scenic Helicopter Flights
Scenic helicopter flights offer a breathtaking aerial perspective of the Greater Kruger region and its spectacular landscapes. Guests can soar over the Blyde River Canyon, the Drakensberg Mountains, and the vast bushveld, witnessing the scale and beauty of the wilderness from above. These flights often include special excursions, such as landing at the Graskop Gorge Glass Lift or enjoying a champagne picnic in remote, inaccessible locations.
Beyond sightseeing, helicopter transfers provide a luxurious and time-saving way to travel between lodges or to nearby airports. The experience combines adventure with comfort, offering guests a unique vantage point that complements their safari on the ground.

Star Safari
In the clear, unpolluted skies of the African bush, the night comes alive with stars. Royal Malewane’s Star Safari invites guests to explore the southern hemisphere’s celestial wonders through guided stargazing sessions. Using telescopes and expert knowledge, guides point out constellations, planets, and other astronomical phenomena, sharing stories and myths that have been part of African culture for centuries.
This magical experience is often combined with nighttime drinks or snacks around a fire, creating a serene and awe-inspiring end to the day’s adventures. The Star Safari connects guests not only to the wilderness but also to the vast universe beyond.

Little Explorers Programme
The Little Explorers Programme is designed to engage young guests with the wonders of the African bush in a fun, educational way. Led by experienced guides, children participate in age-appropriate activities such as animal tracking, bird identification, and nature crafts. The programme nurtures curiosity and respect for wildlife, inspiring the next generation of conservationists.
This tailored experience ensures that families with children can enjoy meaningful safari adventures together, with activities that entertain and educate while maintaining safety and comfort. It’s an ideal way for children to connect with nature in a supportive and inspiring environment.

Private and Celebratory Dining Experiences
Dining at Royal Malewane is an experience in itself, with options that transform meals into unforgettable moments. Guests can enjoy gourmet cuisine in the elegant main dining rooms or opt for intimate private dinners under the stars. The lodge’s culinary team crafts menus using fresh, local ingredients, tailored to dietary preferences and special occasions.
Celebratory dining can take place around the traditional boma fire, on secluded decks overlooking waterholes, or even in the bush for a truly unique experience. These bespoke dining options combine exquisite food, fine wines, and the magic of the African wilderness for memories that linger long after the meal ends.

Kruger Park Golf Excursions
For guests who enjoy golf, Royal Malewane offers helicopter transfers to Leopard Creek Country Club, one of South Africa’s most prestigious golf courses located near Kruger National Park. Set against a backdrop of wildlife-rich bushveld, the course offers a challenging and scenic round of golf in an exclusive setting.
This experience blends the thrill of sport with the luxury of private transfers and fine dining at the club, providing a perfect day off from game viewing. It’s an ideal addition for travelers seeking a diverse and indulgent safari itinerary.
Share This Page