Manyeleti Game Reserve Tours & Safaris

Manyeleti Game Reserve

The Manyeleti Game Reserve is a hidden gem located in the northeastern part of South Africa, nestled between the renowned Kruger National Park, Timbavati Game Reserve, and Sabi Sand Game Reserve. The reserve offers a pristine, unspoiled safari experience, attracting wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers looking to escape the hustle and bustle of more crowded areas. Covering an area of approximately 23,000 hectares (56,800 acres), Manyeleti offers an exceptional range of wildlife and diverse landscapes, from savannah plains to riverine forests, making it an ideal safari destination.

The reserve is unique because it shares unfenced borders with Kruger, Sabi Sand, and Timbavati, which allows animals to roam freely between these parks. This openness ensures that visitors can witness the full range of African wildlife in their natural habitat without the restriction of artificial boundaries. Manyeleti is also less commercialized, making it an exclusive experience for those looking for serenity and privacy in nature.

Wildlife

Manyeleti Game Reserve is home to a rich array of wildlife. The Big Five  lion, elephant, buffalo, leopard, and rhinoceros can be spotted here, alongside many other mammals, reptiles, and insects that make this area their home. Some of the notable wildlife in the reserve includes:

• Big Five: Lion, Elephant, Buffalo, Leopard, White Rhino.
• Other mammals: Giraffe, Zebra, Kudu, Impala, Warthog, Hyena, Cheetah, Wild Dog, and a variety of antelope species.
• Reptiles: Crocodiles, numerous species of snakes, including the venomous Black Mamba.
• Insects: A diverse range of species, including butterflies, beetles, and spiders like the Golden Orb Weaver.

The diversity of species offers excellent opportunities for game drives, walking safaris, and birdwatching.

Birds

Manyeleti Game Reserve is also a birdwatcher’s paradise. The variety of habitats in the reserve supports over 300 bird species, making it an exciting destination for birding enthusiasts. Among the most notable bird species are:

• Large birds: African Fish Eagle, Southern Ground Hornbill, Secretary Bird.
• Raptors: Martial Eagle, Black-chested Snake Eagle, Tawny Eagle.
• Waterfowl: White-backed Duck, Greater Flamingo, various species of herons and egrets.
• Other notable species: Lilac-breasted Roller, Magpie Shrike, Blue-cheeked Bee-eater, and various hornbills.

The presence of both migratory and resident bird species offers year-round opportunities for birdwatching, with the best sightings during the summer months when migratory species are abundant.

Best Time To Visit

The best time to visit Manyeleti Game Reserve depends on your preferences for wildlife sightings and weather conditions. Here's a breakdown:

• Dry season (May to September): This is the peak safari season. During this period, the vegetation is less dense, and animals tend to gather around waterholes, making wildlife sightings more frequent and easier. The cooler temperatures also make for more comfortable game drives.
• Wet season (October to April): While there are fewer visitors during this time, the bush is lush and green, and this is the time when many animals give birth. The wet season offers fantastic birdwatching opportunities, as migratory birds are present.

Weather & Climate

Manyeleti has a subtropical climate, which means it experiences warm temperatures year-round, with distinct wet and dry seasons:

• Summer (October to March): Average temperatures range from 25°C (77°F) to 38°C (100°F). This period is also the rainy season, with afternoon thunderstorms being common.
• Winter (April to September): The dry season, with average temperatures between 10°C (50°F) in the morning to 25°C (77°F) during the day. This period is cooler, especially in the evenings, so a jacket is advisable.

How To Get There

Manyeleti Game Reserve is well-connected and can be reached by road, air, or a combination of both.

• By road: The reserve is approximately a 5-hour drive from Johannesburg (about 450 kilometers or 280 miles) via the N12 and R40 highways. From Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport, it’s around 90 minutes by car.
• By air: The closest airport to Manyeleti is the Hoedspruit Eastgate Airport, which is about 40 minutes away by road. Scheduled and private flights are available from Johannesburg and other major South African cities. Alternatively, there are charter flights that land directly in the reserve’s airstrip.
• Transfers: Many luxury lodges in the reserve offer transfers from airports or nearby towns like Hoedspruit or Hazyview.

Health & Safety

When traveling to Manyeleti, health and safety are paramount:

• Malaria precautions: The Manyeleti Game Reserve is located in a malaria-prone area. It is strongly recommended that visitors consult with a healthcare provider before traveling for advice on malaria prophylaxis and other vaccinations.
• Wildlife safety: While on game drives or walking safaris, always follow the guide’s instructions for your safety. Wild animals roam freely and can be unpredictable, so never approach them, even from a vehicle.
• General safety: Be mindful of your personal belongings and valuables. Always lock doors and windows when in vehicles or accommodations.

FAQs

1. Is Manyeleti a malaria area? Yes, Manyeleti is a malaria area. It is advisable to take malaria prevention medication before visiting.

2. Are children allowed in Manyeleti Game Reserve? Yes, many lodges in the reserve are family-friendly and welcome children. However, age restrictions may apply on walking safaris or certain game drives.

3. What is the best way to explore Manyeleti? Game drives and walking safaris are the best ways to explore Manyeleti, offering opportunities to see wildlife up close. Experienced guides are on hand to enhance the experience with their knowledge of the flora and fauna.

4. Can I drive myself in Manyeleti Game Reserve? Self-drive safaris are generally not allowed in Manyeleti. Visitors are required to travel with a guide on scheduled game drives or private safaris.

5. Are there luxury accommodations in Manyeleti? Yes, Manyeleti has a range of luxury lodges and tented camps, offering exclusive and intimate safari experiences.

6. What should I pack for a trip to Manyeleti?

• Light clothing for daytime safaris.
• Warm clothes for cool evenings and mornings during the winter.
• Comfortable footwear for walking safaris.
• Hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen.
• Binoculars and camera for wildlife photography.

Manyeleti Game Reserve offers a fantastic and intimate safari experience. Whether you're seeking the thrill of the Big Five, a peaceful retreat in nature, or a birdwatching paradise, Manyeleti provides all of this and more in one of South Africa's most pristine reserves.