The Royal Malewane

The best time to visit The Royal Malewane is June through August (winter), when cooler temperatures and reduced vegetation provide excellent Big Five visibility. Daytime temperatures range from 0°C on early morning game drives to a comfortable 18°C by midday. This peak season aligns with wildlife concentrating near water sources. For budget-conscious travelers, September through December offers equally rewarding wildlife viewing with lower rates and warmer weather as spring arrives.

The Royal Malewane is a premium luxury lodge with all-inclusive rates. Luxury Suites start from R25,000 per person per night, Royal Suites from R125,000 per night, and Africa House villa from R205,000 per night. Peak season rates (June–August) are approximately R62,500 per person per night, while shoulder season rates (September–December) begin at R47,080 per person per night. All rates include accommodation, all meals, beverages, twice-daily game drives, bush walks, and laundry services.

From the United States, fly to Johannesburg's OR Tambo International Airport (approximately 15-17 hours from major US cities). From Johannesburg, charter a flight to Royal Malewane Airstrip (approximately 1 hour flight time), followed by a 20-30 minute ground transfer to the lodge. Alternatively, drive from Johannesburg via the N1 highway (approximately 5-6 hours). All ground transfers from the airstrip are included in your accommodation rate.

Yes, The Royal Malewane welcomes families. Children under 4 stay free when sharing a parent's room. Children ages 5 and older are charged from R5,800 per person sharing (2026-2027 rates). The lodge offers family units, a kids' program, babysitting services, and expert guides who can adapt game drives for younger guests. However, children on game drives must be old enough to sit quietly; the lodge recommends consulting directly about specific age requirements.

The Royal Malewane is located in Thornybush Private Game Reserve, one of the most game-rich areas adjacent to Kruger National Park. You will see all Big Five species—lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhino—plus abundant plains game including giraffe, zebra, and antelope. The reserve also hosts African wild dogs, spotted hyenas, and over 130 bird species. Elephants frequently visit guest plunge pools, and wildlife congregates at the Malewane River visible from the lodge.

All activities are included in your accommodation rate. The lodge offers twice-daily guided game drives (early morning and late afternoon), guided bush walks led by expert trackers, and optional night spotlight drives. Additional experiences include treatments at the award-winning Waters of Royal Malewane Bush Spa, such as the signature Royal Thaba Massage (90-minute deep tissue massage with traditional African Knobkierrie stick). All meals, beverages, and laundry services are also included.

Yes, complimentary Wi-Fi is available throughout The Royal Malewane, including in all suites and common areas. This allows you to stay connected while enjoying your safari experience, though many guests intentionally limit connectivity to fully immerse themselves in the bush environment.

The Kruger National Park region is a malaria-endemic area. The US CDC recommends antimalarial medication for travelers to South Africa's Lowveld region. Consult your doctor at least 4-6 weeks before travel. Yellow fever vaccination is not required for South Africa but may be recommended depending on your itinerary. Standard vaccinations (MMR, tetanus, hepatitis A/B) should be current. The lodge provides mosquito nets in all rooms and has mosquito control measures throughout the property. Insect repellent with DEET is strongly recommended.

The Royal Malewane distinguishes itself through its exclusive 20-guest maximum capacity, ensuring intimate wildlife experiences unavailable at larger properties. It was voted South Africa's Leading Safari Lodge in 2018 and nominated for Africa's Leading Luxury Lodge in 2019. The lodge features the award-winning Waters of Royal Malewane Bush Spa, gourmet cuisine by Executive Chef Brandon Souris, and highly qualified guides including expert Master Trackers. All rates are all-inclusive, covering meals, premium beverages, and activities—eliminating hidden costs common at other properties.

You can book The Royal Malewane directly through The Royal Portfolio website (theroyalportfolio.com) or compare verified rates, read guest reviews, and book through SafariFind.com, which connects you with verified safari operators offering The Royal Malewane. SafariFind allows you to compare multiple operators' pricing and availability in one place. For direct inquiries, contact The Royal Portfolio at +27 21 671 5502. A safari specialist will respond within 15 minutes during working hours.