Welcome to Mabalingwe Nature Reserve!
Rich in abundant bird and animal life, including Africa’s “Big 5”, it is here where nature has united to create the perfect paradise on earth. Spread over more than 12 500 ha and malaria free, unspoilt bushveld, Mabalingwe Nature Reserve nestles in the shadow of the majestic Waterberg Mountains.
In our tradition of 'something for everyone' there are a number of recreational activities to be found. After a memorable day of activities, relax with a superb meal in the restaurant, and then sipping cocktails against the backdrop of the setting sun, listening to nocturnal calls of the wild.
The service and friendliness of the staff combined with the wonder of the wild will ensure you leave Mabalingwe with unforgettable memories and the realization that you are indeed 'richer' for partaking in this breathtaking experience. “Heaven is made on earth”, they say.
Here at Mabalingwe Nature Reserve heaven has been created for you, whether you need a break, a holiday, a conference or a venue for your private or company function, you will surely find it at Mabalingwe Nature Reserve. Live the African experience!
Tlou Lodge :
The Tlou Lodge has twin bedded lodge rooms as well as luxury en-suite, six sleeper self catering lodge close to the Tlou Conference Centre. These lodges are 3 & 4 star graded and is the ideal "getaway" home for those not wishing to be involved in anything more than nature and its animal life. The accommodation is versatile providing “home from home” comforts to all guests.
Bush Camps :
For the more adventurous, two bush camps are available where only the night calls of the wild and a crackling campfire entertain guests…
Kalahari Bush Camp :
Kalahari Bush Camp is privately situated at the foot of the mountains rolling through Mabalingwe, and was developed for family and group getaways. 5 luxury tents connected with a wooden walk way, you can experience luxury and still cater for yourself. The camp consists of five luxury twin bedded tents with en-suite bathroom, fridge, coffee/tea station and electricity. All five tents are hidden between lush Bushveld trees and private from each other. The central, fully equipped kitchen, splash pool and lapa are situated at the end of the walkway and are easily accessible.
Kalahari Tent Camp :
5 dome tents with lighting but without power points. The camp consists of a kitchen as well as an ablution block. Kalahari 4x4 Camp: 4x4 stands without any facilities.
Pitsi Bush Camp :
Pitsi Bush Camp caters for a group of ten people, hidden away from the rest of the camps on the Reserve, and for those who feel the need for ultimate privacy and a great bush experience, this camp is definitely a must. This bush retreat is fully equipped and has hot and cold running water and a splash pool to make use of in the heat of summer. With unspoiled views and game walking freely through the camp you will be able to rejuvenate your senses.
A short journey from major city centers in Gauteng means that you will be able to enjoy the bushveld in all its glory without having to recover from your trip. Fully tarred access roads make arriving at camp a sheer pleasure, with 67 exclusive and generously shaded stands. At night, when the lazy smoke of barbeque fires fill the air and the aroma of juicy tidbits cooking on an open fire entice the taste buds, new friendships are formed and memories of the good life is imprinted into the mind of every guest. In addition to a central entertainment area with digital satellite TV, the Caravan Park also features fully equipped ablution facilities, a hot and cold swimming pool as well as a baby pool, a shop, play area for children with trampolines and, of course, the unforgettable beauty of nature.
4x4 Camps :
This is a must-do for all 4 x 4 enthusiasts! For you to truly enjoy your surroundings you need to be fully self sufficient with all camping gear – this is definitely not for the faint hearted or those who enjoy the luxury of electricity because the camp has no electricity and cannot be reached with a normal sedan vehicle.
At night you will be able you enjoy the nocturnal calls of the wild while sitting around the camp fire with family and friends with nothing to disturb you... During the day you and your group will be able to drink in the spectacular surroundings and spend quality time together... Here you will be closer to nature than ever before and you will be able to relax and revive your senses...
This 4 x 4 camp is situated close to the famous Kalahari Oasis Bush Pub and you will have easy access to game drive areas if you feel the need to explore the Reserve and stand a chance to encounter 4 of the Big 5!
Conference Facilities :
With its superb conference facilities, Mabalingwe Nature Reserve caters to the need of any corporate client. The state of the art conference room with seating capacity for up to 250 delegates can be divided to accommodate small, medium and large groups, or joined, to instantly create a venue suitable for conferences and private functions. Large wooden decks overlooking the African landscape provide entertainment areas for tea breaks and individual group sessions. A variety of conference packages are custom made to suit your budget and our professional conference coordinators are on hand to assist you with the planning of your next sales and marketing, financial or annual management conference.
Team Building :
Team building is a niche at Mabalingwe. Some of the activities available includes paintball, archery, wall climbing, a low ropes course, Bushveld Olympics, fear factor and 4x4 trails to name but a few. With ten obstacles to overcome on the Low Ropes course, time is essential for each team. The low rope obstacle course is a mental as well as a physical course which brings the team together by discussing the obstacle and helping each other to overcome each obstacle in a record time.
Weddings :
The big day has arrived, and two special people and their guests are looking forward to one of the most important days in their lives…
Getting married is a joyous occasion and a lot of hard work goes into making this day a success. Mabalingwe is especially popular for weddings, and the stone chapel built adjacent to the conference hall provides the perfect setting for the perfect wedding. A fully trained, professional compliment of staff and management are always available to assist the bridal couple with their wedding plans! A variety of reception venues are available including the more formal Tlou Conference Centre, Kubu Boma, Tshukudu Restaurant, Witches hut bush venue and the well known Kalahari Oasis Bush Pub.
A large variety of activities are available, from game drives and bird drives to lion feeding drives and horse back safaris. Guests are also allowed to enter the game viewing area with their own vehicles to ensure that you have the maximum time to search for 4 of Africa’s Big 5!
Game Drives :
Experience true nature in an open game drive vehicle. Dwelling through the home of rhino, sharing a moment in the presence of the mighty elephant or coming face-to-face with the highly elusive leopard. Game drives takes guests through some of the most breathtaking landscape, grasslands, rocky ravines and majestic mountaintops, giving guests a glimpse of unspoiled Africa living at its’ own pace and by its’ own rules. Enjoy a night drive with our trained and qualified field guides to shine some light on nocturnal animals such as owls, jackal, bush babies and many other creatures of the night, a very educational experience.
Lion Feeding Drives :
Complete your African Experience by viewing our lions during their feeding times. This activity is not only interesting but guests will also learn a lot more about the “King of the bush”
Horse Riding :
Enjoy Africa on horse back as the first pioneers did, surrounded by fresh air and the sweet smells of the bush. A variety of times are available from early in the mornings to sunset rides and a one and a half hour ride will make sure that you see most of the animal and nature life. Half hour rides are also available for children and adults who do not wish to challenge the longer rides.
Other recreational facilities :
From heated pools, cold swimming pools, tennis courts, putt-putt, a squash court, sauna and Jacuzzi. Mabalingwe also cater for the more adventurous guest and offer the following activities:
Archery :
At Mabalingwe you will learn to enjoy and master this mythical sport.
4x4 Trail :
Challenge yourself and your vehicle to a journey with spectacular views and sunsets. No charge for this activity and you can drive any time during the day.
Paintball :
This would be the time to start thinking tactical. This activity demands teamwork and strategy planning.
Abseiling :
Breathe the smell of fresh air while gliding down steep rocky mountain on Mabalingwe Nature Reserve.
Tshukudu Restaurant & Kanniedood Ladies Bar :
At the Tshukudu Restaurant and Kanniedood Ladies Bar you can choose from a variety of delicious meals and drinks! Relax with a cocktail in the Kanniedood Ladies Bar and snack on light meals while overlooking the WP Wessels Dam or enjoy culinary delights in the African atmosphere of the Tshukudu Restaurant! Special Venison meals are also served in the Kubu Boma.
Kalahari Oasis Bush Pub :
Kalahari Oasis is situated in the game viewing area. Once a set for a comedy series and now converted into a bush pub, this unique venue sets the ideal “shebeen theme” and is open for a drink during the day or a private function at night.
Plaaswinkel :
The Plaaswinkel is situated opposite the Conference Centre; this shop offers everything from cold drinks, sweets, magazines, clothing and “oops! I forgot it at home items.”
Caravan Park Shop :
The Caravan Park Shop is situated in the Caravan Park; this shop offers everything from cold drinks, sweets, magazines, clothing and “oops! I forgot it at home items.”
Liquor Store :
The Liquor store is situated in the Caravan Park next to shop.
ATM & Fuel :
Two ATM Machines are available, one at the Plaaswinkel and one at Reception. Petrol & Diesel is available at the Main Gate.
24-hour Reception :
Reception is open 24 hours a day for your convenience.