Game ReserveBig Five
Greater Makalali Private Game Reserve
South Africa 260 km² (100 mi²) Est. 1993
About Greater Makalali Private Game Reserve
Greater Makalali Private Game Reserve is a 26,000-hectare community-owned Big Five reserve in Limpopo Province, formed when local communities pooled their land for conservation and ecotourism. The reserve represents one of South Africa's most important community-driven conservation projects, directly benefiting the Sekororo and Mametja communities.
Located between the Drakensberg escarpment and Kruger National Park, Makalali's mixed bushveld terrain of mopane woodland, riverine forest, and open savannah supports all Big Five plus cheetah, wild dog, and over 300 bird species. The reserve offers excellent game viewing at a fraction of the cost of neighbouring Sabi Sand or Timbavati, with the added value of meaningful community engagement.
0
Safari Tours
4.0
Avg Rating
5/5
Big Five
33
Years Protected
Highlights
- Community-owned reserve — tourism directly benefits local communities
- Big Five with cheetah and wild dog present
- More affordable than Sabi Sand and Timbavati
- Off-road driving and night drives allowed
- Meaningful community engagement opportunities
Considerations
- Not part of the Greater Kruger open system (fenced)
- Game density lower than premium reserves
- Limited luxury accommodation options
- Less well-known — fewer reviews and information available
Wildlife
Big Five Status
🦁
Lion
common
🐆
Leopard
occasional
🐘
Elephant
common
🦬
Buffalo
common
🦏
Rhino
occasional
Notable Species
Lion
Common
Leopard
Occasional
Elephant
Common
Cape Buffalo
Common
White Rhino
Occasional
Giraffe
Common
Zebra
Common
Kudu
Common
Impala
Common
Hyena
Common
Common Occasional Rare
Best Time to Visit
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Peak Season Good Time Less Ideal
Climate Overview
Getting There
Makalali is approximately 480 km (5 hours) from Johannesburg via the N4 and R40 through Hoedspruit. Flights to Hoedspruit Eastgate Airport take 1 hour from Johannesburg. Lodges arrange road transfers.
Nearest Airport
Hoedspruit Eastgate Airport (HDS)
Nearest City
Hoedspruit
Drive Time
5 hours