MalaMala is perhaps the most famous of South African game reserves. With a story embedded in the history of the South African safari, MalaMala has forever been associated with luxury, photographic safaris in the country. Located on the western border of the Kruger National Park, nestled in by the Sabi Sand, and having no fences along its boundaries with both the Kruger and the Sabi Sand, it is open to some of the most celebrated game viewing on earth. There is no denying MalaMala’s deserving reputation as a wildlife hotspot, nor its pioneering history in the Lowveld, and now it is in the process of ‘re-imagining’ MalaMala Camp and Sable Camp through an aesthetic upgrade to the main guest areas and bedrooms in a multi-phase overhaul. By December, MalaMala Camp will be complete, and if the photos of the first few complete phases are anything to go by, we’re in for a treat!
What has remained important to the team at MalaMala is the identity of the camp, the integrity of the reserve, and the character of the place that has for so many years embodied a tranquil experience of Africa. The new look has brought about an added element of sophistication and contemporary style, retaining the earthy tones and textures, and introducing statement pieces and fresh structure. The heritage of the camp has certainly been preserved and the character of MalaMala has pride and place in the beautiful lounge, dining, and bar area, and in the richly furnished suites. Dark wooden beams criss-cross overhead against the organic, aromatic thatched roof and dark walls and wood create the feeling of spaciousness between the ceiling and the floor. Woven mats, grass lampshades, and intricate pieces of carved furniture add detail, while simple leather sofas and fine-lined art on the walls bring an even balance to the interiors.
MalaMala Camp is located overlooking the Sand River where it enjoys optimal views of the coming and going wildlife. The main deck is where breakfast and lunch is served, enjoying the shade of the giant old trees, and the view of the wide river. Also overlooking the river is the large rim-flow pool, which is not a new feature of MalaMala Camp, but certainly is a central attraction and ideal for guests spending their downtime at the lodge. Inside there are a recently refurbished bar, which is filled with nostalgia in the form of framed images taken in the 1930s days when the camp was simply a few thatched huts (but still visited by royalty!) Incredibly aesthetic wooden wall panels, and black and white accents infused with organic patterns and colour palettes, hint at the image of the striking zebra in its bushveld habitat.
The luxury suites have always embodied the old days in their rounded structure, with dark slate floors and high thatched ceilings, which is a huge part of the ‘original’ MalaMala safari. Now, after this illuminating refurb, the interiors of the luxury guest rooms are truly glowing. Unique lighting and crisp ivory walls create the perfect canvas for the artful decor that now fills the rooms. Keeping with the neutral colour palette of the main lodge living areas, the rooms are furnished with black and white and beige, all woven together in varying tones and patterns. Wall art is simple and fitting to the safari theme, while interesting lamps and soft furnishings add a contemporary element that ties it all together. En suite bathrooms are somewhat industrial, using exposed pipes, shower plumbing, and copper and brass basins and taps to compliment the traditional stone floors and red roofs. All in all, these luxury rooms are as visually appealing as they are practically comfortable – a true victory.
Also under the spotlight is the refreshed, re-imagined Sable Camp, located exclusively at the southern end of MalaMala Camp. This independently run 6-bedroom camp is ideal for small groups looking for a private safari booking. It includes one Lion’s Den suite which has two bedrooms and it is especially good for a family stay. Identically to MalaMala Camp, Sable Camp overlooks the Sand River from an elevated position, giving it an enviable location. The recent refurb has redesigned the lodge main areas as well as the suites in a similar way to MalaMala Camp so one can expect to be inspired by the blended contemporary African feel of every area. Below are some photos of the new-look Sable Camp.
Visit our website to see more information on MalaMala Camp, Sable Camp, and Rattray’s Camp, which are all located within the exclusive 13 300-hectare private game reserve bordering the Sabi Sand.
