Malilangwe Wildlife Reserve
Welcome to the Malilangwe Wildlife Reserve! Found in the southern corner of Zimbabwe, this 502 square kilometer sanctuary is a treasure of natural beauty and wildlife.
With its unique sandstone outcrops, majestic Mopane forests, and ancient Baobab trees, Malilangwe is a visual feast. Not to mention, it’s home to over 100 rock art sites that date back over 2000 years. Here, you’ll find a high concentration of black and white rhino, large herds of elephants, and an impressive variety of bird species. And let’s not forget the wild dogs and white lions that are spotted regularly. Whether you’re an avid angler, a wildlife enthusiast, or a history buff, Malilangwe has something for everyone.
So why wait? Scroll down to see the exciting safari options we have on offer. Come, join us, and let the call of the wild beckon you to an unforgettable adventure.
Sunrise in paradise
On the Prowl
Got your back
Muddle of Mutts
The quiet sleeper
Activities at Malilangwe
We cater for a wide variety of interests for those visiting Malilangwe to ensure a complete experience
Game drives
Travelers have the opportunity to observe wildlife in their natural habitats on twice-daily game drives at Singita Pamushana Lodge. This activity offers a rare chance to see predators and endangered game in the expansive Malilangwe Wildlife Reserve.
Walking Safaris
This is a unique opportunity to explore diverse habitats on foot and observe wildlife up close. Plus there is the opportunity to learn about the diverse plant species in the Malilangwe Wildlife Reserve, many of which have medical benefits
Tiger Fishing
The waters of Lake Mteri are home to a variety of fish species (including bream, bass or barbel fish & the legendary tiger fish), providing a challenging yet rewarding activity for angling enthusiasts.
Ancient Rock Art
Visit ancient San Bushmen rock art sites. The art reflects the rich heritage of indigenous communities and their symbiotic relationship with the surrounding landscape. Often the art was used to show visiting tribes what game was available to hunt in the area.
Explore The Different Habitats and Ecological Zones
The Malilangwe Wildlife Reserve boasts 38 different habitats and ecological zones. This activity enables guests to understand the biodiversity of the region and the various ecosystems that coexist within it.
Interactions with Local Shangaan People
Seize the opportunity to engage with the local Shangaan community. This cultural exchange enables a deeper understanding of their lifestyle, traditions, and customs.
Bird Watching
With over 400 bird species, the wildlife reserve is a paradise for bird watchers. From eagles to other exotic species, the diversity of avian life is truly astounding.
Wildlife Viewing
The Malilangwe Wildlife Reserve is home to a range of wildlife, including lions, leopards, and cheetahs. This presents a unique opportunity for wildlife enthusiasts to observe these majestic creatures in their natural habitat.
Exploring Malilangwe
Types of Safaris That We Organise
Tailor-Made Safari
We work with you to craft a safari to your liking and allow for a full exploration of Zimbabwe
Family Safari
Immerse your family in our meticulously crafted safari, fusing lavish comfort with wildlife for an unparalleled adventure.
Couple Safari
Discover a safari designed for couples, where you can take a break from the stress of everyday life
Walking Safari
Take a stroll on the wild side with our walking safaris where you get up close and personal with the country´s game,
Honeymoon Safari
Indulge in a our curated honeymoon safari where we blend luxury and wildlife for a unique marital celebration.
Horseback Safari
Experience the thrill of horseback safari, where luxury meets the wild, offering a distinct and exhilarating escapade.
Bird Watching Safari
Our bird watching safari offers the chance to experience all of Zimbabwe´s bird magic. A feast for the eyes, this safari is a must for avian enthusiasts.
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The Exclusive Place To Stay in Malilangwe
Singita Pamushana Lodge
Useful Facts About Malilangwe
- Buffalos: Breeding herds of buffalos are a daily occurrence. There are often sightings of a herd of over 500 strong having sundowners at Hwata Pan.
- Lions: Sightings of lions are plentiful and different prides are seen almost daily. They have been seen feeding on carcasses of buffalo, giraffe, zebra, impala and wildebeest.
- Rhinos: Both white and black rhinos have been seen regularly. They are under constant surveillance by the antii-poaching unit
- Elephants: The bull with the largest tusks on the property has been seen several times in 2023, along with other impressive tuskers.
- Leopards: Leopard sightings have been good, especially from the safari boat cruises. One was once seen stalking a crocodile!
- Hyenas: The different hyena clans have been feeding on the bounty of carcasses left by the lions. They’ve been seen trailing the wild dogs, hoping for a free meal.
- Lichtenstein Hartebeest: This antelope species can be seen in the reserve.
- Sable Antelope: This can also be seen in the reserve
- Nyala: Sightings of Nyala have been reported.
- Klipspringer: Very easy to spot
- Cheetah: Sightings are possible in the reserve.
- Birds: With over 400 species, the reserve is a birdwatcher’s paradise. It has one of the highest concentrations of large breeding eagles in the world.
Animals that can’t be found in Malilangwe Wildlife Reserve:
- African Wild Cat: These are not commonly seen in the reserve.
- Python: While there have been sightings, it’s not common to see pythons in the reserve.
- Genet: This small nocturnal mammal is not usually seen on game drives.
- Martial Eagle: Despite having a chick in a nest close to Nduna, sightings of this eagle are not common.
- Crowned Eagle: It’s been seen on its nest near Meso, but sightings are not frequent.
If you’re in the early stages of planning your safari to Malilangwe and are wondering about the best months to visit, We’ve created a guide to help you. Below, you’ll find our recommendations on the ideal months to experience the reserve, as well as a breakdown of the pros and cons of visiting during both the dry and wet seasons. This should aid you in deciding the most suitable time for your visit.
Dry Season (April to October)
POSITIVES:
- The wildlife in Malilangwe Wildlife Reserve is easier to spot. This is because the animals gather around waterholes and rivers to quench their thirst. Plus, the vegetation is not as dense, making it easier to see through.
- The weather conditions are also favorable, with clear skies and little rain.
- Minimal rainfall. You’re unlikely to have your plans disrupted by unexpected showers.
- The risk of contracting malaria is minimal, as there are fewer mosquitoes.
- Despite the hot days, the temperatures can drop in the early mornings, making game drives quite chilly. So, remember to pack some warm clothing!
NEGATIVES:
- The environment can become quite arid and dusty due to the lack of rainfall.
- The temperatures in October can be quite hot, which might be uncomfortable for some visitors.
Wet Season (November to March)
POSITIVES:
- The landscape turns green and fresh, and it’s also the time when many animals give birth, making it a wonderful time to see newborns.
- This is the time when migratory birds arrive, making bird watching a fantastic activity.
NEGATIVES:
- Roads can become difficult to navigate due to the heavy rains, and access to certain parts of the park may be restricted.
- The wildlife viewing might not be as good as during the dry season due to the dense vegetation
- The weather can also be hot and humid, which might not be comfortable for everyone.
By Road
If you enjoy road trips, you can drive to the Malilangwe Wildlife Reserve. From Harare, it’s approximately a 6-hour drive. If you’re coming from Johannesburg, expect about a 12-hour drive. However, please note that self-driving is not advised in this remote part of Zimbabwe and a 4WD is necessary.
By Air
For those who prefer to travel by air, you can fly direct from OR Tambo International Airport to Buffalo Range airstrip. The flight time is roughly 1 hour 45 minutes, and this airport is about 45 minutes away from the Singita Pamushana Lodge in Malilangwe. This flight is available on Mondays and Thursdays. Alternatively, from March 1, 2024, Halsted’s Aviation Corporation will start offering weekly flights from Buffalo Range Airport to Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport, enabling guests to visit multiple safari destinations in one trip. The flight takes off from Harare, stops at Buffalo Range, goes to KMIA, and then returns back to Buffalo Range and Harare.