The Heart of the Lowveld
Where the Big Five Roam Free
MAKALALI PRIVATE
GAME RESERVE
The Greater Makalali Private Nature Reserve is a protected wilderness area covering approximately 25,000 hectares of unspoiled bushveld in South Africa’s Limpopo Province.
The reserve lies between the Drakensberg Mountains and the Kruger National Park, forming part of one of the most important wildlife regions in Southern Africa.
The landscape is characterised by open savannah, dense woodland and river systems including the Makhutswi River, which supports a rich diversity of wildlife and birdlife.
WILDLIFE
ENCOUNTERS
Makalali is home to the Big Five, as well as cheetah, African wild dog, giraffe, zebra and numerous antelope species.
The reserve’s diverse habitats also support more than 300 species of birds, making it a rewarding destination for both wildlife enthusiasts and bird watchers.
With relatively few lodges and controlled traversing areas, Makalali offers an uncrowded safari experience where wildlife encounters feel intimate and authentic.

CONSERVATION IN
MAKALALI
The Greater Makalali Reserve was established in the early 1990s when neighbouring farms removed their fences to create a large protected conservation area. Native wildlife species were gradually reintroduced, restoring the natural balance of the ecosystem.
Today the reserve plays an important role in conservation and biodiversity protection.
Projects supported within the reserve include:
- Wild Dog Range Expansion Programme
- Cheetah Metapopulation Project
- Elephant Contraception studies
- Bird conservation programmes for endangered species
By visiting Makalali and staying at lodges such as Clive’s Camp, guests directly contribute to the ongoing protection of this remarkable wilderness.
GETTING TO
CLIVE’S CAMP
Clive’s Camp is located within the Greater Makalali Private Game Reserve in Limpopo Province, one of South Africa’s most accessible private safari destinations. Despite its remote wilderness setting, the lodge can be reached easily by road, scheduled flight or private charter.
Whether travelling from Johannesburg, Cape Town or further abroad, your journey to Clive’s Camp is both convenient and scenic.
BY AIR
The closest airport to Clive’s Camp is Hoedspruit Eastgate Airport (HDS), located approximately one hour (72 km’s) from the reserve.
Hoedspruit receives daily scheduled flights from both Johannesburg and Cape Town, making it the most convenient gateway for guests visiting the Greater Makalali Private Game Reserve.
Upon arrival at Hoedspruit Airport, our team can arrange a road transfer to the reserve, where our transfer partners will bring you directly to the lodge.
Private charter flights can also be arranged directly into Makalali Game Reserve for guests seeking a more exclusive travel experience.
BY ROAD
Clive’s Camp is approximately 5 to 6 hours’ drive from Johannesburg, offering a scenic journey through the Limpopo Lowveld.
Guests travelling by car will pass through the towns of Dullstroom and Lydenburg Hoedspruit before reaching the reserve.
Detailed driving directions and gate access instructions will be provided prior to arrival.
For guests who prefer not to self-drive, private transfers can be arranged from Hoedspruit Airport or surrounding lodges and safari destinations.
RESERVE ACCESS
Clive’s Camp is situated within the Greater Makalali Private Game Reserve, a protected wilderness area with controlled access.
Guests will enter at the reserve gate and from there have a short drive to the lodge.
The drive into the reserve is often the beginning of your safari adventure, with wildlife frequently seen along the way.
NOTE: The reserve gate closes at 6pm so all guests need to ensure they arrive timeously.
TRAVEL PLANNING ASSISTANCE
Our team would be delighted to assist with travel arrangements, including:
- Airport transfers
- Private charter flights
- Road transfers from nearby lodges or airports
- Travel advice and routing assistance
Please contact us when planning your visit and we will gladly help ensure your journey to Clive’s Camp is seamless and enjoyable.





