&BEYOND Ngala Private Game Reserve, situated in the Timbavati Game Reserve, shares an unfenced boundary with the world-renowned Kruger National Park, South Africa’s largest wildlife sanctuary, and one of the biggest game reserves in the world.
A spectacular diversity of wildlife moves through this immense wilderness, including breeding herds of elephant, leopard, spotted hyena, giraffe, large buffalo herds and white rhino. With its name meaning lion in the local language Shangaan, Ngala lives up to its promise, supporting several large prides of these powerful cats. African wild dog can also be spotted moving through the reserve.

Ngala was the first private game reserve to be incorporated into the Kruger National Park and has exclusive traversing rights over 14 700 hectares (36324 acres) of game-rich wilderness. The reserve offers an intimate African wildlife experience, with game drives led by expert ranger and tracker teams. Sensitive off-roading practices allow close-up game sightings while walking safaris and bush walks are also offered.

Tucked under a canopy of mopane and tamboti trees, Ngala Safari Lodge boasts 20 classic thatched cottages, including three family cottages with interleading rooms, and the spacious Family Suite. Each spacious en-suite cottage exudes a romantic colonial ambiance with nostalgic safari memorabilia throughout. Floor-to-ceiling glass windows make the most of sunny safari days and a private veranda offers the perfect setting for private dinners. The gracious Family Suite accommodates four guests and includes a private swimming pool and the use of a private vehicle.

The lodge’s beautiful pool area beckons to those seeking refreshment and relaxation. A sparkling swimming pool and sundeck overlook a natural riverine woodland, ideal for avid birdwatchers, while a tranquil spa and a well-equipped fitness Sala can be enjoyed in between game viewing adventures. Hearty breakfasts and delicious lunches are served in the dappled shade of an enormous weeping Boer Bean tree. Upon their return from exhilarating evening drives, guests are welcomed by Ngala’s warm, hospitable staff and a banquet set in the elegant candlelit courtyard or an African feast in the open-air traditional boma.