Manyeleti – Dad and the kids explore the bush
I went on a fantastic adventure with my dad and my siblings to the Manyeleti Game Reserve. It was an incredible experience that allowed us to truly connect with nature. We got to see beautiful wildlife up close and learn about their habitats. It was an amazing opportunity to learn and be amazed at the wonders of the natural world.
Exploring the bush with my family was an unforgettable experience. We witnessed the breathtaking beauty of the African savannah and the diverse array of animals that call it home. From watching elephants roam freely to observing lions in their natural habitat, every moment was filled with awe and wonder.
As we ventured deeper into the bush, we learned about the delicate balance of nature and the importance of conservation. Our guide taught us about the interconnectedness of all living things and how our actions can impact the environment. It was a humbling reminder of the responsibility we have to protect and preserve the world around us.
One of the highlights of our trip was going on game drives. We would wake up early in the morning, just as the sun was rising, and hop into a safari vehicle. As we drove through the reserve, we kept our eyes peeled for any signs of wildlife. Our guide would point out different animals and provide fascinating facts about their behavior and characteristics.
We were lucky enough to see a variety of animals, including giraffes, zebras, and hippos. The kids were especially excited when we spotted a family of cheetahs resting under a tree. It was such a thrill to see these majestic creatures in their natural habitat.
During our time in Manyeleti, we also had the opportunity to learn about the local culture and traditions. We visited a nearby village and met with the locals, who warmly welcomed us. They shared stories about their way of life and taught us about their customs and traditions.
Our trip to Manyeleti was an eye-opening experience that left a lasting impact on all of us. It reminded us of the importance of preserving our natural world and how even the smallest actions can make a difference. We returned home with a newfound appreciation for nature and a desire to do our part in protecting it for future generations.
If you’re looking for an adventure that combines both excitement and education, a trip to the Manyeleti Game Reserve is the perfect choice. You’ll have the opportunity to witness the wonders of nature up close while also learning about the importance of conservation. It’s a journey that will leave you with memories that will last a lifetime.
Did you know that going on a family vacation to Kruger Park can be quite costly? And sometimes, when you finally spot an amazing animal, there are so many cars crowding around that it takes away from the experience. Well, lucky for you, I have a solution!
Let me introduce you to Manyeleti, a fantastic alternative to Kruger Park that is still part of the Greater Kruger region. It’s a hidden gem that not many people know about yet.
Can you believe how lucky we are in South Africa to have the opportunity to see incredible animals like leopards? We sometimes forget just how special it is to witness these rare and magnificent creatures in the wild, especially when they’re under constant threat.
As for me, I consider Manyeleti Nature Reserve to be the ultimate gem of Greater Kruger. It’s truly a hidden paradise, nestled along the border with no barriers between the two. The best part is that you don’t need to navigate crowded roads or deal with heavy traffic to experience the wonders of this reserve. The dirt roads are accessible, and the wildlife sightings are as good as what you’ll find in the park.
Now, of course, it’s important to note that Manyeleti can’t quite compare to exclusive destinations like Chief’s Island in the Okavango Delta or Tanzania’s Katavi National Park. But here’s the exciting part – Manyeleti is less than a seven-hour drive from Joburg! It’s an easily accessible and fantastic alternative for those of us who can’t make it to those faraway destinations.
When I had the chance to go back to Manyeleti, a reserve I first visited 15 years ago, I jumped at the opportunity. And let me tell you, it was totally worth it. To make things even better, staying at Manyeleti main camp costs only half of what you would pay at Kruger’s public camps. Talk about a steal!
The main camp at Manyeleti is in a perfect location, right by a dam. It’s surrounded by beautiful marula and baobab trees. The only intruders you might encounter at night are hyenas, hoping to snag a young nyala that ventures too close to the camp’s safety.
During my stay, I had the opportunity to meet Celebration Mnisi, one of the friendly staff members at the front desk of the camp. We became fast friends, and it added an extra level of enjoyment to my experience at Manyeleti.
So there we were, in late August, me and my two kids – Fynn, who’s 10, and Saskia, who’s 7. This trip was a big deal for us, you see. Thanks to the complicated rules of South Africa’s family law, it was our very first “big” road trip together.
The chalets at Main Camp were pretty nice. The older ones had a reddish-brown color, while 19 of them had recently been renovated to a traditional white with thatched roofs. They looked really good, you know? It was clear that a lot of thought and care had gone into making them feel cozy and comfortable, kind of like a fancy place you’d go to on vacation.
When I went on safari with Distinctly Africa, it was unlike any other experience I’ve had before. Leon Plutsick, the owner, has created something truly special. He used to run Shongololo Express, but now he’s found a new way to give guests an incredible experience at a much lower cost.
You see, Distinctly Africa operates in the Manyeleti, sub-letting from the Mpumalanga Tourism and Parks Agency (MTPA). This allows them to offer a luxurious safari experience without the high price tag. In fact, it’s about a third to half the cost of a lodge in the Sabi Sands, but you still get that same amazing adventure.
Leon’s innovative approach is what sets Distinctly Africa apart. He’s found a way to make safaris more accessible without sacrificing any of the quality. It’s a win-win for everyone involved.
Having visited nearly 70 lodges over the years, I was excited to see what makes Distinctly Africa stand out. I wanted to understand how it all worked.
Once we arrived, it didn’t take long to figure it out.
Our rondavel was a bit small, but with an extra bed for us, it was just right. As a dad on a family bush trip with my two kids, it was exactly what we needed.
The veranda was like any other Kruger rondavel – big enough for two chairs and a low wall to rest our tired feet while enjoying a glass of wine at the end of the day. It was the perfect spot for us to sip our morning coffee and hot chocolate.
I’m Fynn, a photography enthusiast. These cheetahs that you see in the picture were captured by me using a camera I borrowed from another guest. Photo credit goes to Mario and Jenny Fazekas, Angus Begg, and myself, Fynn Begg.
When we turned right outside, we found ourselves walking through the camp, passing by grazing nyala and prickly devils as we made our way to a sparkling pool. On the other hand, if we turned left, we would reach a long canvas tent that served as a communal area for meals, tea-time, and socializing. Right next to it, at the fence, is the braai area where guests enjoy dipping rusks before embarking on early morning game drives or gather around the fire at night, sharing stories of their sightings.
The game drives in the reserve are primarily led by a legendary guide, Mpho Malapane, who has been conducting walks and drives here for 19 years. Assisting him is the eagle-eyed tracker Reply Mnisi. Reply is from one of the local clans called the Mnisi, and there is still an unresolved land-claim concerning their territory.
On the first morning of our adventure, my friends and I woke up bright and early. We didn’t get the best sleep because of the occasional howling of jackals, but it was a small price to pay for the chance to be surrounded by the tranquility of the wilderness.
After getting ready, we made sure to pack some coffee and rusks to keep us energized for the day ahead. The August air was crisp and cool, so we bundled up and prepared ourselves for the exciting journey through the reserve.
I had been living in Cape Town for quite some time, and while it was a beautiful city, I longed for a genuine wildlife experience. So, you can imagine how thrilled I was to finally have the opportunity to immerse myself in nature.
As I sip my morning coffee on a game drive in Manyeleti, Mpho kindly pours me a steaming cup of hot chocolate. The aroma fills the air, adding to the excitement of the day ahead. I take a moment to appreciate the uniqueness of Manyeleti compared to other reserves.
One of the things that sets Manyeleti apart is the freedom to explore on your own. Unlike Sabi Sand and other private reserves, Manyeleti allows self-driving. Of course, game-viewing vehicles from private lodges like Honeyguide, Koko Moya, Tintswalo Safari Lodge, and Pungwe traverse the roads as well.
There’s something special about being able to drive at my own pace without having to follow behind a long line of vehicles. It brings a sense of exclusivity and relief. However, there’s a truth that comes with self-drive – the eyes of Reply and Mpho, the experienced guides, possess a unique ability to spot wildlife that most of us lack. They know this reserve like the back of their hands, including the ‘habits’ of the Manyeleti bush. They know where different creatures like to hang out and when. It’s this insider knowledge and local nuances that make a guided drive a truly worthwhile experience.
I love staying at Pungwe camp the most,” I said to my friend Leon as we set off on our first drive. Pungwe was managed by the legendary Michel Girardin of Sabi Sands, but it didn’t have Mpho, the incredible radio operator. Mpho turned on the radio and started decoding the messages that connected the reserve’s rangers. Suddenly, we heard the word ‘ingwe’ crackling through the handset. Excitedly, we followed the signal and soon discovered a beautiful leopard and her cub. We spent the next few hours tracking their movements, in awe of their grace and majesty.
I had never been this close to a leopard before. When I was just three years old, I saw one in a tree with three kills, but it wasn’t this close. You won’t believe what happened next. We were driving through the wild when we came across a scrub hare just a few meters away from us. It was completely still, but you could tell it was on high alert, sensing the presence of a predator. And then, we saw her. The leopard mom, with her cub right behind her, crossing the road using her belly to stay low to the ground. As she passed by, she glanced to her left and saw the scrub hare, which she saw as a potential meal. In an instant, the hare transformed into a springhare and bounded away to safety. It was an incredible sight to witness.
After spending some time with the two felines, we were starting to get tired from the early start and the heat of the sun. So, our guide, Mpho, revved up the engine and promised that we would find them again on the afternoon drive. I couldn’t wait to see what other amazing encounters awaited us in the wild.
When I think about my experiences with the Big Five over the years, it’s the smaller animals that truly captivate me. From dung beetles to scrub hares and jackals, they all have a charm of their own. The smell of fresh grass in the morning brings me joy, and I always hope to catch a glimpse of a pangolin. However, today Mpho had his sights set on lions and wild dogs, knowing that he had to please his two children.
Out of nowhere, our vehicle came to a halt next to a short acacia tree. Under its branches sat a well-fed lion, its majestic mane crowned atop its regal head. It was an incredible sight, especially since it was my friend Saskia’s first encounter with a lion. However, Fynn, on the other hand, quickly lost interest in the lion and turned his attention to a bateleur eagle gracefully gliding through the sky.
Thirty minutes later, I parked next to a pack of wild dogs. They had recently moved into a termite mound, making it their new den. The adult dogs had just returned from a successful hunt, and the energetic pups were eagerly waiting to receive their share of the meal that would be regurgitated by the adults. This heartwarming sight served as a reminder: we had been in the vehicle for three hours and it was about time for us to make our way back to camp and enjoy a delicious brunch.
A young Verreaux’s eagle-owl. Picture credit: Mario and Jenny Fazekas
During our afternoon adventure, we tracked cheetahs, observed three ground hornbills foraging for bugs in a grassy area, and had the pleasure of spending some time with a group of white rhinos.
After dinner, Fynn joined me by the fire and started playing with Leon’s laser pointer. As Fynn pointed the tiny red beam towards the sky, he showed me Orion’s Belt and traced the countless constellations above us. Leon is incredibly knowledgeable about the stars and loves sharing his wisdom with kids like us.
When I went on the Distinctly Africa game drive, I was thrilled to learn that their vehicles are allowed to venture off-road. This meant that we had the opportunity to explore places that are not accessible to regular vehicles. It was so exciting to leave the vehicle for sundowners and other stops, adding a touch of adventure to the experience.
Throughout the following days, we had a delightful routine of meals and game drives. One of the highlights was witnessing a long line of majestic buffalo crossing our path. We also spotted vultures nesting, and even stumbled upon a fascinating sight – a dead impala with a leopard nearby. This incredible find was made by our guide, Mpho, who led us away from the main road and into a donga. It was a reminder that the off-road exploration is what truly sets a guided experience apart from any other.
So, on our fourth and final night, Fynn was showing a new person in our camp the stars. It was really cool to see Antares, Scorpio, and Betelgeuse. My kids were having a great time. The guides and the game drives were awesome, and everything was just so relaxed and enjoyable. I really like how Kruger public camps are laid-back and everyone shares things together. But I also appreciate private lodges for the fancy treatment and delicious food. This time at Manyaleti was probably the best experience I’ve ever had in Kruger. I think it was because it had the best of both worlds.
Plan Your Trip
How To Get There
If you’re coming from Joburg, take the N12 and get off at the Belfast intersection onto the R540. Keep driving through Dullstroom, Lydenburg, and Ohrigstad, and take the R36 towards Hoedspruit. After you cross the Blyde River, make a right turn towards Orpen on the R531. Keep going past the Klaserie turn-off and head towards Orpen Gate. When you see the sign for Orpen Gate, turn left onto the R531. As you continue on this road, you’ll pass the South African Wildlife College on your left. Manyeleti Game Reserve’s entrance is just 50m before Kruger’s Orpen Gate. The Main Camp is about 15km away from the gate. The entry fee for the reserve is R55 per person. Make sure to follow these directions instead of relying on your GPS, because the GPS might give you a wrong route.
Imagine this: you’re surrounded by the breathtaking beauty of Africa, staying in the heart of a public camp where luxury meets nature. And I’ve got just the place for you.
At Distinctly Africa, we offer 10 exquisite rondavels located right on the edge of the camp. These rondavels come equipped with all the modern amenities you could ask for, including a television and Wi-Fi – so you can stay connected while you unwind in paradise. And that’s not all, our guests also have access to the camp’s refreshing pool. This is truly the ultimate African getaway.
If you prefer a more self-catering experience, our Main Camp has got you covered. We have 34 newly renovated bungalows, each with its own en-suite bathroom. Plus, we offer 20 campsites, complete with electricity and communal ablutions. Although the camp facilities may not be as fancy as those in Kruger camps, our renovated chalets are highly recommended and provide exceptional value for your money. A chalet for two starts at just R740, and a campsite for two goes for R250. If you’re traveling with a caravan, we’ve got you covered too at R350. And don’t forget to join us for a thrilling game drive, priced at R350 per person.
For those seeking an even more indulgent experience, we have a selection of private luxury lodges to choose from. Whether you’re drawn to Tintswalo Safari Lodge, Koka Moya, Honeyguide, or Pungwe, you can expect a truly unforgettable stay. The rates for our private lodges start at R3,390 per person.
So what are you waiting for? Book your dream African adventure today! Simply contact us at 072-978-0903 or visit our website at distinctlyafrica.com. We can’t wait to welcome you to our slice of paradise.