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Set within the pristine wilderness of the Manyoni Private Game Reserve in KwaZulu-Natal, Mavela Game Lodge offers a luxurious all-inclusive tented safari experience in one of South Africa’s premier Big 5 destinations. Just outside Mkuze and surrounded by the scenic Zululand bushveld, this intimate eco-lodge welcomes both local and international travelers seeking immersive wildlife adventures and a genuine connection with nature.
Owned and passionately operated by the Stevens family, Mavela Game Lodge is a place where conservation meets comfort. Their dedication to protecting endangered species and preserving the environment is woven into every part of the guest experience—from the warm, personalized hospitality to the sustainable design of the lodge.
Mavela has earned its reputation as a return destination for guests who crave close encounters with Africa’s legendary Big 5—lion, leopard, elephant, rhino, and buffalo. The reserve is also a sanctuary for rare and endangered species, including the elusive Temminck’s pangolin, African wild dog, black rhino, and cheetah. With over 400 bird species recorded, it is also a haven for birdwatchers.
The lodge features seven elevated, luxury safari tents, each offering panoramic views of the surrounding bush. Every tent is stylishly furnished with either king-size or twin beds, eco-conscious amenities, indoor and outdoor showers, and private decks with comfortable seating and birdbaths to attract local feathered visitors. Air-conditioning, ceiling fans, and high-quality linen ensure restful nights, while early mornings are best enjoyed with a coffee in hand as you watch the bush awaken from your private veranda.
Safari activities include twice-daily game drives led by expert field guides, offering the chance to witness wildlife in their natural habitat. For those wanting to explore on foot, guided bush walks and special night drives can be arranged on request. Between safaris, guests can cool off in the swimming pool, browse the small library, or sip a chilled drink from the upstairs self-service bar while soaking up breathtaking views from the elevated deck overlooking the waterhole.
As the sun sets, gather around the boma fire to relive the day’s sightings under a sky ablaze with stars. Evenings at Mavela are capped off with a gourmet three-course dinner prepared by the lodge’s in-house chef using seasonal, locally sourced ingredients, accompanied by a curated selection of fine South African wines.
Whether you’re here for a romantic escape, a photographic safari, or a birding adventure, Mavela Game Lodge delivers an unforgettable, eco-luxury experience in the heart of the African wilderness.
At Mavela Game Lodge, the heart of every stay is an extraordinary and immersive wildlife viewing experience set in the diverse ecosystems of the Manyoni Private Game Reserve. The reserve’s unspoiled landscapes—ranging from savannahs and riverine forests to acacia woodlands—support a thriving population of game and over 400 recorded bird species, making it a premier destination for both Big 5 safaris and specialist birding safaris.
Guests embark on twice-daily game drives in open-top, custom-built 4×4 Land Cruisers designed to maximize comfort, visibility, and photographic opportunities. Morning and late-afternoon drives offer the best chances to observe wildlife when animals are most active. Expect to encounter lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhino, as well as cheetah, giraffe, zebra, antelope, and elusive nocturnal predators.
All game drives are expertly led by experienced FGASA-qualified guides who are passionate about the bush and deeply knowledgeable about animal behavior, ecology, and conservation. These professional guides elevate each outing with insightful commentary and interpretive guiding, ensuring a richer and more personal safari experience.
The game drive experience also includes:
Morning refreshment stops with coffee, tea, and homemade treats from the lodge’s kitchen.
Afternoon sundowners served in scenic bush locations, where you can toast the end of the day while watching the African sun dip below the horizon.
Optional guided bush walks and night drives, available on request for guests seeking an even closer connection to the wilderness.
Whether you’re a first-time visitor to Africa or a seasoned safari enthusiast, Mavela Game Lodge delivers some of the most intimate, educational, and rewarding wildlife encounters in KwaZulu-Natal.
While the classic morning and afternoon Big 5 game drives are the cornerstone of the safari experience at Mavela Game Lodge, guests are encouraged to explore the full range of immersive and conservation-focused activities available within the Manyoni Private Game Reserve.
Mavela offers exclusive access to rare and meaningful wildlife experiences that go beyond traditional game viewing. For those passionate about conservation, opportunities such as Rhino Dehorning Projects—conducted ethically to protect endangered rhinos from poaching—allow guests to witness vital conservation work up close and even participate in this life-saving initiative (subject to availability and season). Another extraordinary experience is Walking with a Pangolin, an intimate guided walk to observe this elusive and endangered animal in its natural habitat—an unforgettable highlight for wildlife lovers and photographers alike.
Guests can also gain insight into the rich heritage of KwaZulu-Natal through guided cultural tours, where you can connect with local Zulu communities, learn about traditional customs, and experience the vibrant culture of the region.
Birding enthusiasts will find Mavela to be a true paradise. The reserve is a designated Important Bird and Biodiversity Area (IBA) and boasts over 400 recorded bird species, including rarities such as the Southern Banded Snake Eagle, Narina Trogon, Pink-throated Twinspot, and Eastern Nicator. Whether you’re a seasoned birder or a beginner, the lodge’s expert guides offer dedicated birding safaris tailored to your interests.
Pro Tip: Be sure to pack binoculars and a birding checklist—or request one at the lodge—to make the most of your sightings from both game vehicles and your private tented deck. The birdbath outside each luxury tent often attracts feathered visitors throughout the day!
