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Nestled within a rare and ancient sand forest, Makhasa Private Game Lodge offers an intimate and immersive safari experience in the heart of the Munywana Game Reserve. Bordering the prestigious &Beyond Phinda Private Game Reserve, this exclusive lodge provides a tranquil retreat where guests can connect with nature while enjoying the comforts of modern luxury.
As part of the greater Munywana Conservancy, which spans over 31,000 hectares of pristine wilderness, Makhasa benefits from open boundaries with Phinda, creating a vast conservation area teeming with diverse wildlife. The reserve is renowned for its Big 5 sightings, as well as an abundance of plains game, rare forest-dwelling species, and over 436 bird species, making it a paradise for both wildlife enthusiasts and avid birdwatchers.
Guests at Makhasa Private Game Lodge enjoy two exclusive game drives daily, setting out at sunrise and sunset with expert guides trained to deliver world-class safaris. With private traversing rights across more than 12,000 hectares of varied landscapes, every game drive presents the opportunity to witness Africa’s most iconic wildlife up close. Whether tracking leopards through the woodlands, observing herds of elephants near waterholes, or marveling at the speed of a cheetah on the hunt, each drive is a thrilling adventure.
With only six private suites, Makhasa ensures an exclusive and personalized experience for its guests. Each suite is thoughtfully designed to blend into the natural surroundings while offering modern comforts such as:
En-suite bathrooms with luxurious amenities
Private balconies with stunning views of the forest and nearby waterhole
Air conditioning for comfort in all seasons
Complimentary Wi-Fi throughout the lodge for staying connected
Start your day with a hearty breakfast on the shaded deck while watching wildlife gather at the waterhole. Enjoy a leisurely lunch under the forest canopy, and in the evenings, savor delicious meals under the stars around a crackling fire in the open-air boma. The lodge’s prime location offers uninterrupted views of nature, where guests can unwind while spotting members of the Big 5 wandering through the reserve.
Makhasa is located in one of the last remaining dry sand forests in the world—an exceptional biome found only in this region. The reserve is home to towering ancient trees, rare orchids, cacti, and lush ferns, creating a breathtaking landscape unlike any other in Africa. Birdwatchers will be delighted by the presence of rare species, including a breeding pair of Narina Trogons, frequently sighted near the lodge.
Whether you’re tracking elusive predators, capturing breathtaking wildlife photography, or simply soaking in the serenity of the African wilderness, Makhasa Private Game Lodge promises an unforgettable escape into nature. Book your stay today and discover one of KwaZulu-Natal’s premier luxury safari destinations.
Expertly Guided Safaris: Your stay includes exclusive game drives led by expert guides trained by &Beyond Phinda, ensuring a world-class safari experience with in-depth knowledge of the region’s diverse wildlife and ecosystems.
Unparalleled Big 5 Encounters: The Munywana Game Reserve is home to Africa’s Big 5—lion, leopard, elephant, rhino, and buffalo—along with cheetahs, giraffes, zebras, and an array of plains game. Each drive offers a new and exciting wildlife encounter.
Seven Unique Habitats: Explore an extraordinary range of landscapes, from dense sand forests and open grasslands to riverine woodlands and wetland areas, each supporting a distinct variety of flora and fauna.
A Birdwatcher’s Paradise: With over 436 recorded bird species, including rare and endemic species such as the Narina Trogon, Makhasa offers exceptional birdwatching opportunities for both avid enthusiasts and casual observers.
Exclusive Private Concession: Enjoy intimate, crowd-free safaris on a vast private reserve, ensuring uninterrupted wildlife sightings with no long queues or time restrictions at sightings.
Seamless Access to Greater Munywana & Phinda Game Reserve: The lodge is part of a 31,000-hectare conservation area, with no boundary fences, allowing wildlife to roam freely and creating one of the most diverse safari experiences in KwaZulu-Natal.
Tap into Local Expertise: Make the most of your safari by engaging with Phinda’s expert guides, who bring years of experience and deep knowledge of the region’s unique ecosystems. Their insights into wildlife behavior, conservation efforts, and tracking techniques will elevate your safari experience.
Discover the Rare Sand Forest: One of the rarest ecosystems in Africa, the sand forest is home to ancient trees, delicate orchids, and unique wildlife not often found elsewhere. Ask your guide about the forest’s fragile biodiversity and the conservation efforts protecting this rare habitat.
Best Wildlife Viewing Times: Early mornings and late afternoons offer the best game-viewing opportunities, as predators are most active during these cooler hours. Be sure to bring your binoculars and camera to capture exclusive sightings in the golden light of the African bush.
Unforgettable Birdwatching: With over 436 bird species recorded in the reserve, Makhasa is a birdwatcher’s dream. Don’t miss the opportunity to spot rare species such as the Narina Trogon, Pel’s Fishing Owl, and African Broadbill—ask your guide to point them out!
Enjoy a Truly Private Safari: Unlike public reserves, Makhasa offers an exclusive, uncrowded safari experience, allowing you to spend more time at sightings without the rush of other vehicles. Take your time observing big cats on the prowl, herds of elephants at play, or even a pack of wild dogs on the hunt.
Pack Smart for Ultimate Comfort: Lightweight, neutral-colored clothing, a wide-brimmed hat, sunscreen, and comfortable walking shoes will enhance your safari experience. In winter, bring warm layers for the early morning game drives.
