Manyeleti Game Reserve

Manyeleti Game Reserve is a 230 square kilometer private game reserve located in the Greater Kruger area of South Africa, sharing open borders with Kruger National Park and Timbavati Nature Reserve. Uniquely, it is the only game reserve in the area owned and managed by a local community, making it a distinctive conservation initiative that combines wildlife protection with community empowerment. The reserve features varied bush landscape with areas of dense vegetation interspersed with more open grasslands, creating diverse habitats for wildlife. Due to the lack of permanent water sources, wildlife densities are lower compared to neighboring reserves, which paradoxically makes it an ideal destination for those seeking an off-the-beaten-track wilderness experience away from the crowds that characterize more popular safari destinations. The reserve offers excellent opportunities to spot the Big Five (lion, leopard, elephant, rhino, and buffalo), along with numerous other wildlife species including white rhino, great herds of elephants and buffalo, and diverse bird species. Visitor numbers remain relatively low, contributing to a more intimate and authentic safari experience. The tented lodge accommodations, such as the Honeyguide tented lodge, allow visitors to remain close to nature even during nighttime, with opportunities to experience the sounds and smells of the African bush. The reserve's commitment to sustainable tourism and community involvement makes it an important conservation success story in South Africa's private reserve landscape.

Varied bushveld landscape with areas of dense vegetation and open grasslands, relatively flat terrain with scattered trees and shrubs typical of Greater Kruger ecosystem

Manyeleti is uniquely owned and managed by local communities, representing an important model of community-based conservation and sustainable tourism that benefits local populations while protecting wildlife.

Best light during early morning and late afternoon game drives. Bring telephoto lens for wildlife photography. Night drives offer opportunities for nocturnal species. Full moon nights provide magical photography opportunities.