South Africa · Safari destination
Mabula Game Reserve
Big Five, an easy drive from Johannesburg.
A malaria-free Big Five reserve in Limpopo, just two hours from Johannesburg. Horseback safaris, quad bike excursions and superb birding.
Mabula Game Reserve
Malaria-free Big Five, an easy drive from Johannesburg
Mabula is a 12,000-hectare Big Five reserve in the Waterberg, roughly 2.5 hours' drive from Johannesburg on tar roads all the way, and entirely malaria-free. No antimalarials, no fly-in logistics: proper big-game country within a weekend's reach, which is why it works so well for families with young children and first-time safari-goers.
A veritable hive of activities, Mabula offers horseback safaris, quad bike excursions, guided bush walks and hot-air ballooning over the bushveld. Keen birders will enjoy the summer months when migratory species such as the Amur Falcon arrive in spectacular numbers.
Picnic breakfasts, afternoon bush braais and the Madjuma Experience, which takes visitors to observe lion behaviour at close quarters after dark, round out a stay that goes well beyond the morning and afternoon game drive.
- How far is Mabula from Johannesburg?
- Mabula Game Reserve is roughly 2.5 hours by road from Johannesburg on good tar roads. Self-driving is straightforward, and most guests arrive by car. Charter flights to nearby airstrips can also be arranged through our safari specialists.
- Is Mabula Game Reserve malaria-free?
- Yes. Mabula lies in the malaria-free Waterberg region of Limpopo, making it safe for visitors of all ages without the need for prophylaxis. It is a particularly popular choice for families with young children.
- Will I see the Big Five at Mabula?
- Mabula is a Big Five reserve, home to lion, leopard, elephant, rhino and buffalo. Sightings are never guaranteed on any safari, but the reserve's experienced guides have an excellent track record. Cheetah, giraffe, hippo and over 300 bird species are also regularly seen.
- Is Mabula suitable for young children?
- Mabula is one of the most family-friendly reserves in South Africa. Its malaria-free status removes the need for prophylaxis, and the short drive from Johannesburg keeps travel time manageable. Activities such as quad biking, horseback safaris and bush walks can be tailored to families. Check individual lodge policies for specific age limits on game drives.
- How does Mabula compare with Pilanesberg and Madikwe?
- All three are malaria-free Big Five reserves within a few hours of Johannesburg. Mabula is the closest (roughly 2.5 hours) and offers hot-air ballooning and the unique Madjuma night lion experience. Pilanesberg sits in a volcanic crater near Sun City and allows self-drive game viewing. Madikwe is more remote, admits no day visitors and is known for its wild dog population. Our safari specialists can help you choose based on your priorities and budget.
- Can I visit Mabula for just two nights or a weekend?
- Absolutely. Mabula's proximity to Johannesburg makes it ideal for a weekend break. Two nights allow time for four game drives, a bush walk and at least one additional activity such as hot-air ballooning or the Madjuma Experience. Rates start from around ZAR 5,570 per person per night.
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Brochure
Southern Africa Guide
Southern Africa's icons, shaped into one itinerary: Greater Kruger, Victoria Falls, the Okavango Delta and Cape Town.
Where to stay
Lodges in Mabula Game Reserve.
2 lodges
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Lux Live availabilitySafari Plains
Safari Plains redefines luxury in the bush, with a magnificent high–ceiling dining room, elegant lounge, impressive bar, and relaxing spa.
From R 7 480 per person · night
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PremiumMabula Game Lodge
Set against a backdrop of lush, green, mountainous vegetation, Mabula Game Lodge is situated in one of South Africa’s premier malaria-free private game reserves. Located just two hours north of Johannesburg, this 12,000-hectare reserve is home to a rich diversity of wildlife, including the Big Five, as well as an abundance of bird species.
From R 5 570 per person · night
Rates per person sharing, per night.
January
Green season, balloon dawns
Best time to visit
The weekend year.
Close enough for any month: winter for game, summer for green, malaria-free throughout.
Mabula Game Reserve
Your guide to Mabula Game Reserve.
When
The dry winter months from May to September offer the finest game viewing at Mabula. Vegetation is sparse, waterholes become focal gathering points for large herds, and the cool, clear days make for comfortable driving. Summer, from October to March, brings lush green landscapes, dramatic afternoon thunderstorms and exceptional birding, including vast flocks of Amur Falcons. Because Mabula is malaria-free, it is a safe and practical choice for families travelling with young children during school holidays in any season.
Midweek stays and winter departures often represent the best value. Our safari specialists can advise on current specials and seasonal pricing.
Where
Mabula Game Reserve lies in the Waterberg region of Limpopo Province, South Africa. It is roughly 2.5 hours by road from Johannesburg, making it one of the most accessible Big Five reserves in the country. The drive is straightforward on good tar roads, and self-driving is a popular option.
For those preferring to fly, charter flights can be arranged to nearby airstrips. The reserve sits within a malaria-free zone, which, combined with its proximity to Johannesburg, makes it an ideal choice for a weekend safari, a short midweek break or a first-time family safari without the need for prophylaxis.
Photos from our guests
A traveller's view.
Every photo below was taken by a guest of ours on a recent trip to Mabula Game Reserve. No stock imagery, no marketing shots. What they saw, on their cameras.
Imagery
Mabula Game Reserve, in pictures.
Recent travellers
Word from people who have just been to Mabula Game Reserve.
Quotes pulled directly from Trustpilot. Where we have specific reviews mentioning Mabula Game Reserve, those come up first. Otherwise these are recent five-star notes from across the trips we have planned.
"Very helpful with itinerary and excellent arrangements of transport from and to Cape Town, and Idubi in Sabi Sands and Lukimbi in Kruger. Although a rep for Safari.com said a letter from a doctor was not required, such a letter IS REQUIRED to go on bush walks if older than 65. Fortunately, we checked the reserve web site and had a doctor's letter."
"The professional, polite and efficient attitude towards us,was paramount. Qualities rarely used and found these days . Thankyou. Mrs Ina Climas."
"Monica was an amazing advisor. Patient, highly responsive and she tailored an imaginative and original itinerary for us. It is clear she knew much about the various options and listened to what we needed to come up with a great solution. Extremely proactive and responsive, making the booking a pleasure"
"I got the package I wanted! No hard sells or upsells. The price matched booking directly, but with safari.com I also got free travel insurance and an eSIM card for my trip. Communication was fast and efficient. I can’t wait until my trip."
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