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Manyeleti is a privately owned reserve, situated between Kruger National Park and Timbavati Game Reserve, with open borders to both. It is, therefore, a part of the Greater Kruger ecosystem and it offers an authentic wildlife experience. The reserve is owned and managed by the local Mnisi people. Three privately owned lodges pay concession fees to the local community.
Best Time to Visit
The winter months of May to September are the best time to visit Manyeleti. This coincides with the Dry season, and wildlife viewing is at its peak. Vegetation thins and animals seek waterholes and other sources for water making them easier to spot. September is probably the best month of all since it tends to be warmer than the other months.
May to September –Dry Season – Winter
October to April –Wet Season – Summer
Scenery
The main habitats in the parks are grassy plains and mixed woodland. In the rainy season, the vegetation tends to be quite thick. The reserve lacks major rivers, but animals can quench their thirst in a large dam centrally located and several small pans dotted around the bush. Look out for the beautiful leadwood trees along the drainage lines.
From: $204 to $1,223 pp/day
From: May to September (Dry season)
From: October to March (It never gets very crowded)
From: 230km² / 89mi²
Manyeleti is part of the Greater Kruger ecosystem and offers a very genuine bush experience. Wildlife viewing is a bit slower here than in some top private reserves such as neighboring Timbavati. Although all of the Big Five are present, the emphasis is more on looking at all wild creatures big and small.
Wildlife Highlights
The reserve offers a good environment for plains game such as Burchell's zebra and blue wildebeest. Big cats can be hard to find, but look out for cheetahs in the open areas. Black-backed and side-striped jackals can often be seen trotting along, and unusual antelope such as greater kudu, nyala, and the rare sable antelope can also be spotted.
Best Time for Wildlife Viewing
Overall, the dry months of June through September are the best for wildlife viewing. August to September, when the Dry season ends, is a very enjoyable time since it is warmer than in mid-winter and wildlife is easier to spot because animals tend to cluster around predicable water sources.
Winter and summer in Manyeleti Game Reserve are opposite to those seasons in Europe and North America. Winter (May to September) brings the Dry season, while summer (October to April) brings the Wet season. Summer months are hot and humid, and winters are mild and dry. Warm clothing for early morning and night game drives is advisable, especially in the winter months.
Dry Season –May to September – Winter
There is virtually no rain during the winter and humidity is very low. Permanent water sources are attractive to animals because water is scarce elsewhere.
Wet Season –October to April – Summer
The summer can be uncomfortably hot and humid. Daytime temperatures frequently peak well over 40°C/104°F, but the average is around 32°C/90°F. Humidity is high and afternoon storms are common, although it seldom rains all day.
The entry point to South Africa for those traveling to Manyeleti Game Reserve is O.R. Tambo International Airport (JNB) in Johannesburg. From here you can take a connecting flight to Hoedspruit’s Eastgate Airport (HDS), located 44km/27mi from the reserve. A transfer from the airport is easily arranged.
It is also possible to drive to Manyeleti from Johannesburg in a rented car. Manyeleti is located on the R40 close to Hoedspruit, to the west of Kruger National Park. The 450km/280 mi drive takes about 5 hours*.
*Driving times are only a rough indication. You should always consider the possibility of significant delays.
Airlines & Ticket Prices
Please check Skyscanner to see which airlines can take you to O.R. Tambo International Airport (JNB), and what tickets would cost.
Domestic Flights
Your tour operator will usually arrange any charter or regular flight that you may need during your trip. There are several carriers to choose from when booking a domestic flight to Hoedspruit’s Eastgate Airport (HDS):
Passport, Visa & Other Entry Requirements
Please check our Getting There – South Africa page to learn more about passports, visas, COVID-19, and other entry requirements.
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