Royal Malewane

Location: Greater Kruger & Panorama Region | South Africa

Price guide: $$$$$ More than $500 per person per night

One of the most luxurious safari lodges in Africa, Royal Malewane is a wonderful retreat from which to explore the bush and enjoy some of the best game viewing that South Africa has to offer.
Perfect forVisitors who are looking to relax in the lap of luxury whilst knowing that some of South Africa’s leading safari guides are on hand to take them on game drives to get up close and personal with the Big Five.
In the knowUnder the guidance of Juan Pinto, Royal Malewane has quickly gained the reputation of offering some of the best safari guides in South Africa, with over 300 years of guiding experience between them.

Recommended for...

  • Wildlife & Nature
  • Seriously special
  • Guiding
  • Food & Wine

Hotel Overview

Sense of place

Royal Malewane is in the southern section of the private Thornybush Game Reserve, which shares an unfenced boundary with the iconic Kruger National Park.

Rooms at Royal Malewane

There are just eight spacious and individually-designed suites at Royal Malewane, all of which come with their own private swimming pools, covered gazebos and daybeds on large decks. Inside they are wonderfully comfortable and have a colonial feel, with antiques, thick Persian carpets, four-poster beds and luxurious standalone baths.

For an extra-special experience, stay at the Farmstead, a lodge just a 12-minute drive from Royal Malewane. It is elevated and offers gorgeous views over Greater Kruger National Park, and also surrounds a waterhole where you can see a wide range of wildlife. It has three Luxury Farm Suites and a Farmhouse, set around a central lodge area. Indulge in the spa, relax on the hanging daybeds on the spacious decks and gather round the fire pit in the evening.

Food & Drink

Royal Malewane is rightly regarded as one of the best lodges in Africa for those looking for gourmet cuisine, with chefs able to create a heavenly range of meals which are served in a variety of inspiring locations.

The Bush Tent offers a romantic dining experience in the African wilderness, serving Afro-Mediterranean dishes under the glow of lanterns. You can also enjoy a personalised menu, tailored to your tastes and dietary requirements, and opt for a light meal in your room or a six-course feast. For those who require it, there is even a complete kosher kitchen ready to use by the chefs at a moment’s notice.

Facilities

At the main part of the lodge there is a variety of lounge and dining spaces, an elegant bar, a lovely swimming pool and a fully-equipped spa – so there are plenty of opportunities to relax after a day’s wildlife spotting.

Activities at Royal Malewane

Guests staying at Royal Malewane are able to enjoy morning and late afternoon game drives through the reserve to get up close and personal with the varied wildlife of the Thornybush Game Reserve. The Big Five are regularly seen here, along with cheetahs, wild dogs, a variety of antelopes and abundant birdlife. The guides here are amongst the best in the business and help to make a safari at Royal Malewane a truly magical experience.

You can also visit the nearby research and rehabilitation centres, or go on unforgettable helicopter or hot air balloon flights over the region.

Best time to go

Best time to travel

Good time to travel (but some limitations)

Travel is possible (but it’s not the best time)

Travel is not recommended

  • Jan
  • Feb
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  • May
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  • Nov
  • Dec
Best time to go

Hotel location

The Royal Malewane is a 35-minute drive from Hoedspruit Airport, which is accessible via direct flights from Johannesburg.

More places to stay in Greater Kruger & Panorama Region

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