Giorno 2 — Dullstroom → Panorama Route & Highlands → Makalali Private Game Reserve
Km 240
breakfast. Departure for Panorama Route & Highlands. The road crosses the Blyde River Canyon Nature Reserve, boasting some of Africa’s most stunning views. The many pine and eucalyptus woods along the route echo with the tingling sound of crystalline streams and waterfalls. With a height of 700 m and a length of 20 km, the Canyon is one of the largest in the world. The first stop off is the viewpoint of the Three Rondavels (a group of three round mesas); after that, you will see Bourke's Luck Potholes (also known as “giant's kettles”), eroded by the wear of plunge pools. Continuation to Makalali Private Game Reserve. I arrive at the lodge for lunch. Located in Limpopo Province, between Hoedspruit and Gravelotte, Makalali Private Game Reserve is a private conservation area covering approximately 25,000 hectares, dedicated to protecting the wildlife and ecosystems of South Africa’s Lowveld. Overlooking the Drakensberg Mountains, the reserve is crossed by the perennial Makhutswi River, a tributary of the Olifants River, and includes around 10 km of the Selati River, creating a diverse range of natural habitats.
Established in 1994 as a conservation initiative, Makalali brings together seven privately owned properties that removed their internal fences to create a single conservancy dedicated to biodiversity protection. Today the reserve is home to the Big Five, together with cheetah, hippo, hyena, numerous antelope species and abundant birdlife, including the endangered Southern Ground Hornbill as well as several raptor and vulture species. Main activities include guided game drives, bush walks and photographic safaris.
The conservancy includes both private residential properties and accommodation facilities. The main hospitality offering is centred on Makalali Main Lodge and Makalali River Lodge, complemented by a number of independent properties located within the reserve. During the stay in the reserve, two daily photo safaris are scheduled; accompanied by an experienced ranger and a skilled tracker, the sighting of the Big Five is likely. time available for relaxation before the afternoon photo safari. Around 15:30, tea was served with a small sweet and savory buffet, before the afternoon photo safari through the reserve. During the safari, there was a stop for a sundowner - a drink with snacks - and to stretch our legs while the sun sets behind the Drakensberg mountains. As darkness falls, the nocturnal animals come out, which the tracker will illuminate with a torch during the return to the lodge, expected around 19:00. There is time to freshen up before dinner. Accommodation Makalali Main Lodge.
_20260520172321.png)
_20260130093727.png)
