Nkomazi Private Game Reserve Travel Essentials

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Ideal duration: 2-3 days

Best Time: May - September Read More

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"Discover Boundless Adventure in Nkomazi's Natural Haven"

Nkomazi Private Game Reserve Tourism

Nkomazi Game Reserve sprawls across 15,000 hectares in Mpumalanga, South Africa, near Mozambique's border. Its diverse landscape hosts the Big Five and offers wildlife enthusiasts guided game drives and walks. With a focus on sustainable tourism, the reserve supports local communities and emphasizes responsible practices, making it a prime choice for an authentic African safari.

Nkomazi Game Reserve, situated by the Komati River southwest of Kruger National Park, offers cosy tented lodges. The landscape is diverse with grasslands, woodlands, rivers, and rocky areas, making it a biodiverse hotspot. Being close to Mozambique's border, the reserve becomes a meeting point for animals from both regions. The rivers and waterholes attract many creatures, creating an ideal spot for birdwatching and wildlife photography.

Entrance Gates to Nkomazi Game Reserve:
Nkomazi Game Reserve has two entrance gates.
1. Nkomazi West Gate: This gate is situated closer to Kruger National Park and is the preferred entry point for visitors arriving from the town of Malelane.
2. Nkomazi East Gate: This gate is closer to the Mozambique border and is often used by those coming from the town of Komatipoort.

Must Know Before You Travel to Nkomazi Private Game Reserve

  • Local Transport: Within the reserve, guided activities are typically organized by the lodge. Exploring the reserve can be done on foot during guided walks, while game drives are conducted in safari vehicles.
  • Packages: Special winter and Romantic Safari Nights packages are available and can be booked on the official website.
  • Inclusions: Accommodation tariff covers all meals and game drives. Note that a Conservation Levy of $15 is excluded and payable during check-in.
  • Timings: Check-in time is 02:00 PM, and check-out time is 10:00 AM.
  • Day Visitors: The reserve is not open for day visitors.
  • Access to Lodge: The road to the lodge requires a 4x4 vehicle. Guests are transferred from the gate to the lodge.
  • Gate Pick-Up: Inform the reserve of your arrival time as gate pick-up times vary seasonally.
  • Picnics: The reserve offers picnics at about $19 per 2-person tent. Book 24 hours ahead, subject to guide availability, with timings around 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM, varying by season.
  • Mobile Signal: Mobile signal is limited, but the lodge offers WiFi connectivity.
  • Advance Booking: Booking accommodations and activities in advance are recommended, especially during peak seasons. It can be booked on their official website.
  • Water Potability: It's recommended to consume bottled water at the lodge and within the reserve as tap water might not be potable.
  • ATMs and Currency: ATMs might be scarce in remote areas around the reserve. It's advisable to carry enough cash for incidental expenses.
  • Transport Costs: The reserve's organized transfers might be more convenient than local taxis, especially given the reserve's remote location.
  • Attractions: Iconic attractions like Kruger National Park, Pilgrim’s Rest, Blyde River Canyon, and God’s Window are nearby and can be planned with the reserve.

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Accommodation in Nkomazi Game Reserve

Nkomazi Game Reserve has 14 glamping tents, each furnished in an “Out of Africa” style with all the comforts of luxury accommodation.

  1. Deluxe Tents: Spacious and well-appointed, these tents cover an average of 40 m² each, accommodating a maximum of two adults. The cost ranges from $300 - $500 per night.

  2. Luxury Tents: These six river-facing tents offer an immersive nature experience with luxurious amenities within approximately 40 m² of space. Maximum occupancy is two adults. The cost ranges from $400 - $500 per night.

  3. Honeymoon Tent: Positioned closest to the Komati River, these two spacious tents cover 80 m² each, providing an ideal romantic retreat. It costs around $500 per night.

  4. Family Tent: Consisting of two individual tents on a shared platform, these accommodations offer convenience for families, with a smaller tent for children. En-suite bathrooms are included. Maximum occupancy is four persons. The cost ranges from $500 - $800 per night.

  5. Presidential Tent: With sweeping reserve views, this tent boasts luxury amenities and spaciousness across a maximum occupancy of four persons, ensuring a top-tier safari experience. The cost ranges from $800 - $1000 per person per night.

  6. Boulders Self-Catering: This self-catering lodging provides a six-day stay, presenting a private retreat enveloped by panoramic reserve vistas. Boulders include two twin rooms and two king rooms, accommodating up to eight adults. The cost ranges from $500 - $600 per night.

Wildlife in Nkomazi Game Reserve

Alongside the renowned Big Five – lions, elephants, buffaloes, leopards, and rhinoceros – the reserve hosts an assortment of antelope species like impalas, kudus, and zebras. Birdwatchers will delight in the presence of over 300 avian species including eagles, vultures, kingfishers, storks, and an array of other birds.

Best Time to Visit Nkomazi Private Game Reserve

How to Reach Nkomazi Private Game Reserve

How to Reach Overview

For those departing from Johannesburg, a road journey of about 400 kilometres awaits, while a shorter distance of approximately 60 kilometres separates the reserve from Kruger National Park. The closest major airport, Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport, is situated roughly 100 kilometres away, offering an air travel alternative.

How to reach Nkomazi Private Game Reserve by flight

The nearest major airport is Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport (MQP), located approximately 100 kilometres (62 miles) away. From the airport, the reserve can be accessed by a combination of road transport, which takes about 1.5 to 2 hours. Private charter flights may also be arranged to the nearby Nelspruit Airport (KMIA) for more direct access.

How to reach Nkomazi Private Game Reserve by road

Travelers can reach the reserve by road from Johannesburg, a distance of around 400 kilometres (248 miles), which typically takes about 4 to 5 hours. The route involves driving along the N4 highway, passing through scenic landscapes.

Additionally, the reserve is approximately 60 kilometres (37 miles) southwest of the renowned Kruger National Park, offering an extended wildlife experience for those exploring the area.

How to reach Nkomazi Private Game Reserve by train

While the reserve itself is not directly accessible by rail, the nearest major train station is Nelspruit Railway Station. Visitors can take a train to Nelspruit from Johannesburg, a journey that usually takes around 6 to 7 hours. From Nelspruit, road transportation options, such as taxis or rental cars, are available to reach the reserve.

How to reach Nkomazi Private Game Reserve by bus

Public transportation options directly to the reserve might be limited. The most convenient way to access the reserve is through private transportation, either by renting a car or booking a guided tour.

Nkomazi Private Game Reserve Photos

Nkomazi Private Game Reserve
One of the Lydenburg Heads from around A.D. 500 found in Mpumalanga
A view from the mountains of the Barberton Geotrail, where evidence of the earliest signs of life (3.2 billion-years-old) was found.[19]
Proteas near Sabie

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