Malala Lodge

As we pulled up to the gate to the lodge, a long stretch of sandy dirt road lay in front of us. As we entered this private nature reserve, a herd of impala sprung across the road and we knew from that moment that we were in the bush. At reception we were greeted by our friendly host, Jane. She welcomed us and walked us to our chalet for two. As we had chosen the self-catering option, the kitchenette in the room was of particular importance to us and it did not disappoint. It was well-equipped.

After we had settled in, we decided to embark on a self-guided nature walk, which was quite safe as the reserve does not have predators. We came across many different antelope species, exquisite birds and a troop of monkeys. It was awesome to see these creatures up close in their natural habitat. This reserve is also only about a twenty minute drive away from the Hluhluwe-Umfolozi Game Reserve, which offers the excitement of seeing the Big 5. It is also close to St Lucia and many other nature reserves, which makes Malala Lodge the ideal place to stay for a trip to Hluhluwe.

As the sun was setting, we relaxed on the veranda of our chalet and listened to the wonderful silence that was nature.

As night set in, we looked up at the stars and noted that we could see many more stars than we could in the city. We felt so calm and free of the hustle and bustle we call everyday life.

We were sad to leave this little bit of heaven we had found but one thing we knew for sure – we would be back.