The Greater Kruger National Park
Welcome back, fellow adventurers and wildlife enthusiasts! In my previous blog post, Discovering Kruger National Park, we delved into the brief history of the iconic Kruger National Park and looked at the various ecosystems which it supports. Today, we are going to dive deeper into this wildlife sanctuary and embark on a journey to explore the private reserves that lie within the Greater Kruger National Park.
We will be looking at Sabi Sand Private Game Reserves, Associated Private Nature reserves, Manyeleti Game reserve, and Letaba Ranch and Makuya Nature Reserve.
Photo by Tanda Tula
The 'Greater Kruger' refers to 344 000 hectares of private game reserves to the west of Kruger National Park. These private game reserves share an unfenced border which allows for the free roaming of animals in a much large area. Private and local community property owners own this additional land, and most is utilised for commercial purposes.
The Greater Kruger is home to some of South Africa's best luxury lodges and these areas are mostly utilised for tourism. Relatively high prices, compared to Kruger national park, and restricted access controls means that visitor numbers are much lower than in the main park.
Sabi Sand Nature Reserve
Photo by Londolozi Varty Camp
Sabi Sand was South Africa's first ever private nature reserve and it stands as a testament to the foresight and dedication of its founders, who recognized the intrinsic value of preserving wilderness areas. The pivotal moment in Sabi Sand's history came in 1993 when fences dropped which seperated Kruger National Park and the Sabi Sand Private Game Reserve.
Today, the Sabi Sand Private Nature Reserve spans 65 000 hectares and is home to a number of lodges and smaller game reserves within the Nature Reserve such as Sabi Sabi Reserve, Londolozi Game Reserve, MalaMala Game Reserve, and Djuma Game Reserve. Sabi Sands is one of the best Big Five viewing destinations in South Africa with its prime location on the banks of the Sabi River and the Sand River.
Sabi Sand is situated West of the Central Kruger and is the Southern-most private nature reserve in the Greater Kruger National park. Skukuza Airport, located in the Kruger National Park, is the closest airport to Sabi Sands with Kruger Mpumalanga Airport in White River a close second.
Jaci's Sabi Lodge, Nkorho Bush Lodge, Elephant Plains Camp and Londolozi Game Reserve are the lodges Jayamandi African Adventures is proud to work with.
Manyeleti Game Reserve
Photo by Tintswalo Safari Lodge
Sharing unfenced borders with Kruger National park, Timbavati and Sabi Sands - Manyeleti Game Reserve is situated in the middle of South Africa's most renowned wildlife viewing locations.
Founded in 1963, Manyeleti was the only game reserve where non-whites were allowed to enter during the apartheid regime. As a consequence of this progressive stance, the South African government invested very little money into this game reserve, resulting in less development than its prestigious neighbours. This, once a disadvantage, is now one of Manyeleti's greatest advantages as the 23 000 hectare game reserve offers only 6 pristine lodges. Compared to the Sabi Sands with over thirty lodges, Manyeleti certainly promises a more quiet, private and pristine safari destination.
That being said, Manyeleti is situated in a drier area than Sabi Sands which has 2 large river systems flowing through it. As a result, Manyeleti tends to have less game and predators than its developed neighbour. However, that does not take away from the fact that Manyeleti is still an excellent safari destination, bountiful in big game and birds.
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.
Associated Private Nature Reserves
The Associated Private Nature Reserves (APNR) is a collective of private wildlife reserves situated alongside the western border of South Africa's Kruger National Park, spanning the provinces of Limpopo and Mpumalanga. Comprising Timbavati, Klaserie, Balule, Umbabat, and Thornybush Nature Reserves, these entities cover a combined area of 184,000 hectares dedicated to preserving natural habitats. The APNR operates as a unified entity, facilitating collaboration among its members and serving as a cohesive interface with governmental bodies.
In 1993, a pivotal moment occurred when the fences separating the Associated Private Nature Reserves from Kruger National Park were dismantled. This move aimed to facilitate the free movement of wildlife, effectively giving rise to the Greater Kruger National Park.
Located East of Hoedspruit, Eastgate Airport in Hoedspruit provides the best access point to these private nature reserves.
Timbavati Private Nature Reserve
Photo by Thabamati Luxury Tents
In the early 1950s, a group of landowners, deeply concerned about the potential degradation of wildlife habitats and the loss of biodiversity, came together to establish the Timbavati Association in 1956. Their shared mission was to protect and preserve the natural integrity of their surroundings.
From its modest beginnings, the Timbavati Reserve has matured into a highly proficient organization dedicated to safeguarding endangered species such as rhinoceroses, pangolins, and a plethora of avian species.
The reserve has also become a favored destination for tourists, boasting several safari lodges that draw visitors from both local and international locales. This influx of tourists has not only bolstered the region's tourism economy but has also generated employment opportunities within the reserve and neighboring communities.
The Timbavati is located to the north of Manyeleti Game Reserve and South of Klaserie Private Nature Reserve. Timbavati is not as densely populated with lodges as Sabi Sands and therefore offers a more exclusive safari experience. However, Sabi Sands still boasts a greater number of wildlife because of the two rivers which pass through.
Jayamandi African Adventures is proud to work with Tanda Tula, Motswari, Makhanyi Private Game Reserve, Motswari, Shindzela Tented Camps and Thabamati Luxury Tents
Klaserie Private Nature Reserve
Photo by Misava River View
It has been over 50 years since the 36 original landowners of the Klaserie decided to merge their land and united to form what is now known as the Klaserie Private Nature Reserve.
Klaserie has played an important role in the conservation of the highly poached rhinocerous through the Klaserie Private Nature Reserve Rhino Protection Fund. This initiative is mainly supported through investors and stakeholders so all and any donations go a long way.
Nestled in between Timbavati, Balule, Umbabat and Kruger National Park - Klaserie truly is the centre of the APNR. Its location on the Klaserie River provides excellent Big Game viewing, as well as ample birding opportunities. The lodges in this reserve are beautiful and Jayamandi looks forward to working with some of them in the near future.
Balule Game Reserve
Photo by Nambu Camp
Situated on the Olifants River, Balule boasts some of the best big game viewing in all of the APNR with an impressive population of hippos and crocodiles. In the dry winter months, animals stick close to the Olifants River creating an excellent window to come and view wildlife in the low season.
Home to only 10 lodges, Balule - just like its APNR neighbours - offers a truly immersive and exclusive safari experience. Here there are no big crowds and sightings are enjoyed with minimal vehicles around. The lodges in Balule are great value for money, luxury options.
Naledi Bush Camp in Balule Game Reserve offers fishing options for those fishing enthusiasts. This is a rare find in the Kruger and should definitely be considered if you enjoy throwing your line in the water.
Umbabat Private Nature Reserve
Umbabat Private Nature Reserve is where it all started for me. On a small private game reserve named Ingwelala.
Now, unlike the previous nature reserves making up the APNR, the private game reserves constituting Umbabat are for private use, and not for tourism. The bulk of these properties are what is known as a "share block." This means that private individuals can buy shares in a bungalow, or property, on the game reserve and therefor earn the rights to stay there and traverse on the reserve.
There is however one exception, and that is Motswari Game Lodge. Motswari Game Lodge finds itself on both Umbabat and Timbavati Game reserves and is the only property on Umbabat which caters to tourists.
This luxury lodge in the heart of the Mopane bushveld is a truly unique and exclusive accommodation which I will highly recommend.
The Umbabat private Nature reserve has a strong commitment to conservation with their own private anti-poaching unit, as well as, numerous research initiatives being conducted annualy.
Thornybush Private Nature Reserve
Saseka Tented Camp
Thornybush Private Nature Reserve, located to the west of Kruger National Park, is another gem within the Greater Kruger area. Known for its luxurious lodges and excellent wildlife viewing opportunities, Thornybush offers an exclusive safari experience with the chance to see the Big Five and other fascinating species in their natural habitat.
Founded in the early 1950s, Thornybush has grown into a renowned conservation area that prioritizes wildlife preservation and community engagement. The reserve's commitment to sustainability is evident through its various eco-friendly initiatives, including anti-poaching efforts and habitat restoration projects.
The lodges in Thornybush are designed to provide the utmost comfort while blending seamlessly with the natural environment. Guests can enjoy guided game drives, bush walks, and bird watching, all led by experienced rangers and trackers.
Letaba Game Ranch
Photo by Mtomeni Safari Camp
Letaba Ranch Game Reserve, situated along the northern border of Kruger National Park, is recognized for its rugged terrain and scenic landscapes. Despite its potential, Letaba Ranch has faced challenges in establishing a strong eco-tourism infrastructure and conservation reputation. The Letaba River, which flows through the reserve, attracts a variety of wildlife, making it an important area for game viewing, especially during the dry season when animals gather around water sources.
While the reserve has not fully capitalized on its potential for eco-tourism, it remains an important part of the Greater Kruger ecosystem. The focus here is primarily on preserving its natural habitats and supporting local community efforts. Letaba Ranch's commitment to conservation is ongoing, though it faces challenges in achieving the same level of recognition and success as some of its neighboring reserves.
Makuya Nature Reserve
Makuya Nature Reserve, located in the northern part of the Greater Kruger National Park, is a unique blend of cultural heritage and natural splendor. Managed by the local Makuya community, the reserve offers a glimpse into traditional South African culture alongside its rich wildlife.
The reserve's diverse landscapes, from rolling hills to riverine forests, support a wide array of wildlife, including elephants, lions, and numerous bird species. Makuya's proximity to the Luvuvhu River enhances its biodiversity, providing rich habitats for various species.
Despite its potential, Makuya Nature Reserve has faced challenges in developing a robust eco-tourism infrastructure. The focus remains on conservation and cultural preservation, with the local community actively engaged in maintaining the natural and cultural heritage of the area. Makuya continues to be an important area for wildlife conservation and cultural preservation within the Greater Kruger ecosystem.
Since the fences dropped in 1993, the Greater Kruger National Park has proven a massive success. Not only is it a tourism winner, offering luxury and exclusive lodges - it is a conservation success, opening migration routes and facilitating the movement of a larger number of animals.
If you wish to visit this extraordinary area, get in touch and we can start planning the ultimate safari trip.
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