Situated in the northernmost reaches of South Africa’s renowned Kruger National Park, the Makuleke Contractual Park is a rich and diverse ecological region known for its exceptional wildlife and dramatic landscapes. Often referred to as the Pafuri Triangle, the area takes its name from the wedge-shaped tract of land formed by the confluence of the Limpopo and Luvuvhu rivers at the historic Crook’s Corner. Covering approximately 26,500 hectares of remote and unspoilt wilderness, the park encompasses riverine forests, floodplains, baobab-studded landscapes, and open woodlands. Its unique location creates a natural wildlife corridor that attracts an extraordinary variety of animals. Visitors may encounter large herds of elephant, buffalo, lion, leopard, rhinoceros, and numerous antelope species. The region is also a premier birdwatching destination, with more than 350 recorded bird species.
Located in the Mpumalanga Province, the Timbavati Private Nature Reserve shares a fenceless border with the world-renowned Kruger National Park. This magnificent 60 000 hectare reserve is best known for its two very rare white lions discovered here in the 1970s, which gave this destination its name. Meaning 'the place where something sacred came down to earth from the heavens', the park lives up to the hype with its enthralling African savannah, abundant wildlife, and friendly people. Visitors have the opportunity to see 40 mammal species, 360 bird species and the famous Big Five (lion, leopard, rhinoceros, elephant, and Cape buffalo). Enjoy a wide array of activities including daytime safaris, guided night game drives, bush walks, and excellent bird watching.
Sharing an unfenced border with the world-renowned Kruger National Park, Sabi Sand Nature Reserve is one of Africa’s most prestigious safari destinations and was the first private game reserve established in South Africa. Spanning 65,000 hectares of pristine wilderness, the reserve encompasses rolling savannah, Lowveld woodlands, seasonal riverbeds, watering holes and the perennial Sabi and Sand rivers. Renowned for its exceptional wildlife viewing, Sabi Sand offers some of the best opportunities in Africa to encounter the Big Five, particularly its famous leopard population, as well as cheetah, giraffe, zebra and numerous antelope species. Visitors can enjoy unforgettable game drives, guided bush walks and magical evenings beneath star-filled skies. Combined with some of South Africa’s most luxurious safari lodges, Sabi Sand delivers an unrivalled blend of wilderness, exclusivity and world-class hospitality.
