Abelana Game Reserve is a 15,000ha (36,000 acre) Big Five game reserve adjacent to the Greater Kruger National Park and the Selati Game Reserve, close to the town of Phalaborwa in South Africa’s beautiful Lowveld – the country’s prime big game region. Owned by the Mashishimale community, the word “abelana” means “to share amongst each other” in the local Northern Sotho language. This spirit of sharing underpins the relationship between the Mashishimale and its lodge operations partner which leases the land for eco-tourism purposes. Characterised by breathtakingly beautiful landscapes, varied topography and a mixture of vegetation types, Abelana Game Reserve has a 10km stretch of the semi-perennial Selati River in its northern section, as well as numerous other seasonal watercourses. Abelana is home to a rich diversity of fauna and flora, from the hippos and crocodiles that make the Selati River their home and the famed Big Five – elephant, rhino, leopard, lion and buffalo – as well as cheetah and wild dog, which are occasional visitors, to an impressive number of endemic bird species including the African fish eagle, peregrine falcon, thick-billed cuckoo, and bat hawk. Abelana Game Reserve offers guests the chance to enjoy a unique feeling of exclusivity while on safari while offering exceptional value for money. With just two lodges – Abelana Safari Camp in the south of the reserve and Abelana River Lodge in its northern section – guests could easily be in the only vehicle exploring the reserve’s 15,000ha at any one given time.
This low density approach allows us to offer a completely immersive, authentic safari experience which can be easily tailored to suit guest preferences. Geographically, the reserve is blessed with a range of eco-systems, from the distinctive granite outcrops and koppies of the south to beautiful riparian forest in the north, dominated by large riverine trees. Abelana Game Reserve is committed to the principles of sustainable tourism, working with the Mashishimale community to uplift and empower its people while conserving and protecting the wilderness under its stewardship. |
Abelana Game Reserve, Greater National Kruger Park, South Africa.
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Abelana River Lodge
This stylish, newly rebuilt 20-room lodge offers spectacular views over the Selati River. The river is home to a plethora of wildlife such as hippo and crocodile and a variety of bird species.
The main area and swimming pool overlook the river and include indoor and outdoor dining areas and a bar, as well as a lounge and fire pit for sharing safari experiences and sightings in the evenings.
All rooms are under thatch with en-suite facilities, including an additional outside shower and spacious deck overlooking the river where guests can spend time relaxing between activities. The rooms are airconditioned with ceiling fans and a mini fridge.
Various dining experiences are offered overlooking the river. Dining options are dependent on weather and guest preferences.
Activities include:
Guided morning and afternoon game drives;
Bush walks;
Birding;
Photography;
Stargazing;
This stylish, newly rebuilt 20-room lodge offers spectacular views over the Selati River. The river is home to a plethora of wildlife such as hippo and crocodile and a variety of bird species.
The main area and swimming pool overlook the river and include indoor and outdoor dining areas and a bar, as well as a lounge and fire pit for sharing safari experiences and sightings in the evenings.
All rooms are under thatch with en-suite facilities, including an additional outside shower and spacious deck overlooking the river where guests can spend time relaxing between activities. The rooms are airconditioned with ceiling fans and a mini fridge.
Various dining experiences are offered overlooking the river. Dining options are dependent on weather and guest preferences.
Activities include:
Guided morning and afternoon game drives;
Bush walks;
Birding;
Photography;
Stargazing;
Start Planning Your Abelana Game Reserve Safari Now!
Our Africa Travel Experts are standing by to make the best recommendations towards your perfect luxury South African Safari experience.
Our Africa Travel Experts are standing by to make the best recommendations towards your perfect luxury South African Safari experience.
