The ultimate South Africa safari destination

Manyeleti means “Place of the stars” in the local language. It truly is a unique safari destination well off the beaten path. You can be certain not to encounter big tour groups travelling around in busses, but rather expect a pristine bush experience in one of the world's most beautiful places. This 23,000 hectate private game reserve borders directly to the vast Kurger National Park, as well as the famous Sabi Sands and Timbavati Game Reserves. It is is situated on the western side of Kruger National Park, perched between the Sabi Sands and Timbavati game reserves. As such, you can be absolutely sure to only experience the best game viewing possible. As there are no fences between the national park and the private game reserves, wildlife is able to roam freely. Manyeleti is prime "Big Five" territory, offering exceptional possibilities for viewing the elusive leopard. Other Big Five animals (lion, rhino, buffalo and elephant) are also often spotted on a very regular basis. Furthermore, with more than 300 bird species present in the area, Manyeleti makes a great safari destination for wildlife enthusiasts, photographers and bird watchers alike.

Some history

The chances of seeing large predators are slightly lower compared to the Sabi Sands and Timbavati Game Reserves, as there is less water in Manyeleti. There is also a big upside compared to staying in Sabi Sands or Timbavati: it is much quieter in terms of visitor numbers. Sabi Sands is the well established name, attracting a large amount of visitors just for that reason. Manyeleti is much lesser known, and also has a very limited number of private game lodges. Tourism in general is less well developed in Manyeleti, and the reason can be found in the dark history of South Africa. In the apartheid years Manyeleti was the only game reserve where non-whites were welcome. The Kruger National Park was inaccessible for them at that time. In all those years the government only invested very little money in the area's development: ironically Manyeleti now is picking the fruits when you are looking for the ultimate bush experience. Manyeleti was founded as a game reserve in 1963.

An exclusive safari destination

Manyeleti Game Reserve is owned and managed by the local Mnisi tribe. They successfully claimed the land as they have been living in the area for many generations. All safari lodges in Manyeleti Game Reserve are privately owned and make use of the land on a concession basis. As there are only three lodges in the reserve, and more than 200 kilometres of gravel roads, you can assume to have to this game reserve pretty much to yourself.