Experience the thrill of the wild on twice‑daily game drives through the Manyoni Private Game Reserve. Guided by a knowledgeable, FGASA‑qualified ranger, you’ll explore the bush in an open‑top 4×4 vehicle, with each excursion lasting approximately 3–4 hours. For your comfort and to ensure every guest enjoys unobstructed views of the wildlife, we seat a maximum of two guests per row. These immersive drives offer exceptional opportunities to encounter the Big 5 and a diverse array of wildlife in their natural habitat, with off‑road tracking permitted for unforgettable close‑up sightings.
Morning and evening game drives are optional activities but included in your standard rate. Private vehicle options are available for guests with special interests such as photography or birding.
Exploring the African bush on foot is one of the most rewarding winter safari experiences. Walking allows you to slow down, step away from the game viewer, and truly connect with the wilderness. It’s an intimate, sensory experience—perfect for appreciating the smaller wonders of the bush, learning about the medicinal and cultural uses of plants, and, if luck is on your side, tracking one of the Big 5 by following their footprints through the sand. At Mavela, we specialise in guided walking safaris led by our highly trained trails guide. Each walk lasts between 2 and 3 hours and takes place either during the morning game‑drive time or after breakfast, depending on bush conditions to give you the best opportunity to encounter larger wildlife in the Manyoni Game Reserve. Your guide will tailor every walk to your interests and fitness level. Whether you prefer a gentle meander through the bush—stopping to admire anything that catches your eye—or a more energetic trek along the scenic crests and valleys of the reserve, the experience is designed entirely around you.
A comfortable pair of walking shoes • Neutral-colored clothing such as greens and browns that blend seamlessly with the natural surroundings • A hat and sunscreen • Binoculars • Water (lodge can supply a bottle) • Long pants for extra protection
Your guide will be equipped with a .375 bolt-action
rifle, and he will be expertly trained in
the appropriate circumstances for its use. This
weapon serves as a last resort for our
protection, and we have never had to deploy it,
as we have always managed to navigate
situations safely.
Guests will walk in a single file line, with
the guide leading the way • An armed backup guide will accompany
groups larger than six • Silence is essential while walking, allowing
the guide to detect any wildlife nearby • Prior to the walk, the guide will provide a
thorough briefing on the rules and
regulations
Guests under 18 or over 65 may be denied participation in the walk. Each case will be evaluated individually. Any pre-existing medical conditions must be disclosed before joining the walking safari.
While many guests visit to witness the Big Five,
countless others depart with a deep admiration for
the stunning avian life. Mavela is celebrated for its
remarkable birdwatching opportunities, boasting over
420 recorded species in the Manyoni Private Game
Reserve. The reserve's varied habitats invite
exploration for numerous beautiful and elusive birds.
From riverine thickets to expansive grassy plains, the
bush teems with diverse birdlife.
The Stevens family are passionate birdwatchers who
strive to share this captivating hobby with their guests.
They welcome a challenge; if you're in search of a
specific bird, they will eagerly explore all corners to
help you spot it. The guides at Mavela are specialists
in ornithology and can often identify birds by their
calls alone.
At Mavela, we offer specialised photographic safari packages designed for wildlife and birding enthusiasts, as well as anyone looking to elevate their wildlife photography skills. With this package, you’ll enjoy exclusive use of a private game‑drive vehicle and the expertise of a dedicated photographic guide who is on hand to assist with technique, camera settings, and field craft.
Having your own vehicle gives you complete flexibility—spend as much time as you need at sightings, wait for the perfect light, or focus your drive entirely on finding specific species. If your goal is to capture striking images of lions, for example, we’ll devote our efforts to locating them and ensuring you have ample time at the sighting to get the shot you’re after.
The reserve’s sweeping grasslands, rolling hills, and dramatic backdrops create an exceptional environment for photographing a wide range of wildlife. For many photographers and nature lovers, capturing images of the Big 5 is a highlight, but you’re free to concentrate on whichever species inspire you most.
Your package includes access to a high‑quality mirrorless Sony camera paired with a super‑telephoto lens, giving you everything you need to capture breathtaking, frame‑worthy wildlife shots.
Your guide will be well-versed in various photographic equipment and techniques, ensuring the vehicle is positioned optimally to capitalize on the available light and surroundings. Understanding animal behavior is crucial in photography, and your guide will skillfully anticipate the scene, allowing for perfect positioning and waiting for the moment to unfold as anticipated.
Elevate your stay with our exclusive extra activities, designed to create unforgettable memories. Embark on thrilling night drives to spot nocturnal wildlife, or get hands-on with conservation initiatives—participate in rhino horn trimming, train with our K9 anti-poaching unit, or join the Pangolin Conservation Experience. Each activity offers a rare chance to connect with wildlife and contribute to meaningful conservation efforts.
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Cancellations and Changes: We understand that travel plans can change. To support our guests, we offer flexible date changes and a clear refund structure. Please note that this policy applies consistently in all circumstances, including force majeure events beyond our control.
New dates are subject to availability and the rates applicable to the new travel period. We will honour the original quoted rate for any postponement rebooked within 6 months, subject to availability and excluding peak periods. Only one date change is permitted.
Refunds are issued less any credit card processing fees, and the final refund amount may vary slightly due to currency exchange rate fluctuations.
