Rattray's on MalaMala

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Rattray's on MalaMala

Timeless Luxury on the Sand River

The lodge lies on one of the largest privately owned Big Five reserves in the Greater Kruger National Park, wedged between Kruger and the Sabi Sand. This area offers some of the finest game viewing in Africa, and you’ll likely spot a greater diversity of animal species here than in most other South African safari areas. Rattray's on MalaMala recalls a bygone era when luxury and opulence merged seamlessly with the natural world.

Price Per Person Sharing From:

From: POA

Rating | Exclusive Top-End

Highlights & What to Expect

Eight river-facing suites (khayas), each with a private heated plunge pool and expansive deck.
Exceptional Big Five viewing on MalaMala’s Sand River frontage within the unfenced Kruger–Sabi Sand ecosystem.
Twice-daily guided drives in open 4×4 vehicles; low guest-to-seat density with Rattray’s operating at four seats per vehicle.
Guided bush walks available (by arrangement) for a closer look at tracks, birds, and botany.
Elegant main areas with library, bar, cellar and viewing decks; small on-site gym and spa treatments.

Location & Setting

Set on a productive bend of the Sand River inside the renowned MalaMala Game Reserve, Rattray’s shares an unfenced boundary with Kruger National Park and adjoins the Sabi Sand. This positioning concentrates game along the river year-round and enables exceptional predator viewing. Access is straightforward: scheduled flights to Skukuza (SZK) or Kruger Mpumalanga (MQP) connect with road transfers to MalaMala, commonly via Shaw’s Gate into the Sabi Sand. The riverside setting brings regular wildlife activity to view from camp, especially in the dry season when permanent water draws herds and big cats.

Rooms

Accommodation is in eight freestanding suites, or khayas, each oriented to the Sand River for privacy and views. Interiors feature elegant, classic furnishings with generous lounge and dining space, his-and-hers bathrooms and outdoor showers. Every khaya includes a private heated plunge pool on a broad deck for relaxed game viewing between drives. Comforts extend to air-conditioning and ceiling fans, with discreet connectivity available. The design emphasizes quiet seclusion and unhurried luxury—ideal for photographers and couples seeking space, light and a strong sense of place along the river.

Facilities

The main lodge blends old-world charm with comfort: an air-conditioned lounge, elegant dining room and characterful bar open to generous decks and an infinity pool overlooking the Sand River. A well-stocked cellar highlights premium South African wines, while the library holds rare African titles and wildlife references. Wellness facilities include a small gym; massages and selected spa treatments are available by arrangement. Spaces are arranged for easy flow between social time and quiet reflection, keeping the focus on river views, passing wildlife and the rhythm of daily safari activities.