Mavela Game Lodge

Mavela Game Lodge offers authentic African safari-style luxury tented accommodation within a popular Big 5 game reserve. The Manyoni Private Game Reserve, in Kwa-Zulu Natal is known for providing an exciting game viewing experience within a low-risk malaria area.

Mavela, being situated in this region creates a space where guests can unwind and make themselves at home in one of the seven, luxury safari-style tents. These air-conditioned tents are tastefully decorated and come complete with standing and ceiling fans, luxurious eco-friendly amenities and crisp white linen on king-sized or single beds. Enjoy an en-suite bathroom fitted with a shower, plus an intimate outdoor shower which faces the magnificent views of the bushveld. Unwind on a large private deck looking out at the beautiful views with comfortable deck chairs and a birdbath in front of each tent, which birding enthusiasts can enjoy ticking off their lifers from the comfort of their veranda. At Mavela Game Lodge you’ll feel the intimate safari lodge experience in a unique part of the African bush.

At Mavela Game Lodge, wildlife enthusiasts can enjoy early morning and late afternoon game drives is in search of personal encounters with a range of abundant bird species and wildlife. If you are in search of a more laidback experience, laze in the sun by the pool on a hot summer’s day or take to the shade of your private patio to enjoy a good book found at the lodge library. The upstairs viewing deck has stunning views of the rolling hills of the Zululand and is an excellent spot to just sit, relax, and watch the wildlife come to drink from the lodge waterhole. The upstairs bar is available for self-service throughout the day and is the ideal place to meet other travellers and share stories from their adventures.

In the evening the main focus will be on the boma or outdoor fireplace where stories are shared, friendships are created and the night sky puts on a show with its dazzling array of stars. After a long stare into the fire, a 3-course dinner will be served. Prepared by Mavela’s talented chef, using fresh, local ingredients and paired with carefully selected South African wines.

About Manyoni Private Game Reserve

The reserve lies within the Msunduzi valley in northern Zululand in the province of Kwa-Zulu Natal, South Africa. The area falls under the Mkuze Valley Lowveld vegetation type, varying from open Savanna thornveld, bushveld to riverine woodland, characterized by Acacia’s and Marula tree species. The reserve has over 70 Mammal species and an exceptional diversity of birdlife.

After a decade of hard work and commitment, the Zululand Rhino Reserve has given birth to a new name and identity. Manyoni Private Game Reserve means the “place of birds” in isiZulu and is apt to describe this unique reserve, nestled in the heart of Zululand. The reserve offers “Big 5” game viewing and conservation is a top priority. The rolling valleys and hills offer awe-inspiring views framed by the Ubombo mountain range. From birds soaring above to the animals walking below, every aspect of the reserve has a profound impact on all who encounter it.

The Manyoni Private Game Reserve was created when 17 dedicated landowners dropped their fences to create a 23 000-ha protected area that was chosen as a release site for the WWF Black Rhino Range Expansion Project. After the introduction of black rhinos, a herd of elephant from the Kruger National Park were translocated to the reserve. Cheetah were reintroduced in 2009. The reserve achieved “Big 5” status when lions were introduced in 2011.