The Ultimate Mjejane Game Reserve Accommodation Guide
From early morning game drives with steaming cups of coffee warming the hands, to watching elephants roaming around at their majestic slow pace, right from the coolness of a swimming pool, when you are staying in the Mjejane Game Reserve, you can experience the very best of what the bush has to offer.
The Mjejane is one of the newer additions to the Greater Kruger National Park concession area and it is one of the more exclusive places that you can stay when you are looking for an exciting private safari adventure.
Within the Mjejane guests get to enjoy a bit more of luxury and utterly private escape. This game reserve offers all of the animal sightings that one can see in the Kruger National Park, but without the huge crowds, which can become especially problematic in the busy season.
At Jacana River Lodge, our 5 bedroom, 10 sleeper guesthouse is the perfect place to make memories. Our spacious game reserve accommodation is made for relaxation and is beloved by guests because it offers a unique perspective for those wanting to enjoy an African bushveld holiday.
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Types of Mjejane Accommodation
The Mjejane accommodates all tastes and needs.
When selecting your accommodation, you will easily find numerous options to suit your particular needs. From luxury, spacious accommodation to the simple camping options, you will be able to find the accommodation that will make your stay in the Mjejane Game Reserve something really special.
Self-catering guesthouses and lodges, similar to Jacana, are the more popular option because they tend to have a lot more to offer while they are also known for having a more laid back kind of vibe.
It is important that, when choosing your accommodation, you choose the type that is compatible with both your needs and your budget. Some accommodation might be cheaper than others, but that could be because the accommodation is very basic. Other accommodation could be a little on the pricey side, but in return you will be more than comfortable during your stay.
While the Mjejane Game Reserve continues to see more lodges and guesthouses built, these are currently the 3 most popular types of accommodation in the reserve.

1. Mjejane Self-Catering Accommodation
Mjejajne Accommdation Self-catering comes with numerous perks, which is exactly why so many go for it.
This type of accommodation is often the more affordable kind, because it is up to you to make your own food. Generally, there are no on site restaurants or cafes, and in some cases there are also no shops nearby.
With this kind of accommodation, guests can come and go as they please, and for the most part they will be left to their own devices, especially as some facilities don’t have staff living on the premises.
Self-catering accommodation in the Mjejane can either be at an actual lodge or guesthouse, or it can take on the form of camping accommodation.
Who should choose this type of accommodation?
This accommodation is ideal for families and groups of friends. With the extra space, and extra hands to cook, as well as the fact that the overall rates will be shared between the group, makes self-catered lodges the perfection option.

2. Game Lodge
Game Lodges are the ideal place to stay if you intend to have a longer stay or if you are travelling from afar.
While game lodges are spacious and have a wide selection of rooms, the rooms often exclude kitchen facilities as you won’t be preparing your own meals. Game lodges are preferred by those who have don’t want to have the extra worry about packing and preparing their own food.
Private game lodges can have a lot more guests staying at the premises, but that doesn’t mean that they won’t deliver on the privacy promise. Game lodges in the Mjejane are quiet spaces, where guests can enjoy disappearing into their own world, where they can just be on their own, taking in every peaceful moment.
Game lodges are not just great accommodation options, they also often come with a few added extras like guided game drives and walking tours.
Who should choose this type of Mjejane accommodation?
Anyone who wants to have an all-inclusive stay should consider a game lodge. Not having to worry about the trips finer details and being able to simply book in and then have the rest of the planning taken care of will allow you more time to relax.
Not having to plan is not for everyone, but it is a big bonus if you are travelling on a limited amount of time.

3. Bed and Breakfast
The bed and breakfast accommodation is not found in abundance in the Mjejane Game Reserve Bookings options, but there are one or two options available for those who want it.
A bed and breakfast is designed to just provide a comfortable place to sleep and breakfast in the morning.
Bed and breakfast accommodation is usually a short term accommodation option which is why there are not many of them in the Mjejane.
Who should choose this type accommodation?
This style of accommodation is the best choice for those who are looking for a happy middle ground between game lodges and self-catering accommodation. You will still have some control over certain meals of the day, but there is no rush to prepare food in the morning. Bed and breakfasts are also in the middle in terms of pricing; they are neither too expensive nor cheap.

Why stay in Mjejane Private Game Reserve?
With the Kruger National Park, and all sorts of other private game reserves close by, you might be wondering if the Mjejane is the place for you.
And the answer is yes.
The Mjejane Private Game Reserve has everything you could possibly be looking for, if a trip into the African bush, complete with wildlife sightings, awe inspiring thunderstorms, and spectacular sunrises and sunsets is what you consider the best kind of holiday.
When staying in this private game reserve you’ll also have something that not many other guests get to have: wildlife on your doorstep.
The many game lodges in Mpumalanga, including Jacana River Lodge, are built to be as close to nature as possible. Guests are treated to the most amazing wildlife sightings, from the comfort of their deck or swimming pool. Curious wildlife come right up to the lodge boundaries, which are usually surrounded by a secure fence.
Along with all of the usual antelope, like impala and kudu, as well as the other more interesting plains game, such as giraffe, wildebeest and zebra. You can also look forward to spotting the legendary Big 5.
The lion, leopard, rhino, elephant and buffalo, are all often spotted close to the lodges in Mjejane. If you choose to stay at Jacana, your chances of seeing interesting wildlife increases, as the lodge has been built on the banks of the Crocodile River.
Throughout the day, but especially in the mornings and late afternoons, animals of all kinds come to the river to quench their thirst and in doing so they provide those at the lodge with an unforgettable sighting.
And given the lodge’s location so close to the river banks, spotting leopards is quite common if not an everyday event. The Riverine Bush that lines the river banks is the preferred habitat for leopards as well as a host of truly beautiful birds.
There is nothing quite like being so up close to nature. It will give you a totally different perspective about the wild and it will also leave you with a calming feeling. To aid with creating that much sought after calm atmosphere, the game reserve is never jam packed full of people.
Although the reserve covers some 4000 hectares of pristine land, the vast majority of visitors to this part of the world prefer the nearby Kruger, which is just perfect for those who choose the Mjejane, because they can certainly look forward to a more exclusive stay.

Jacana River Lodge Accommodation
At our game reserve lodge in Mjejane Lifestyle Private Game Reserve, we have created an African oasis; a place of peace and quiet, the perfect place for a family getaway. And unlike other luxury lodges in Mjejane Private Game Reserve Accommodation, we are child-friendly.
Our lodge comfortably sleeps 10 guests, and it features a large kitchen and a big living room. Outside, guests can relax in a beautiful braai area, filled with everything you could need to cook up a storm on an open fire.
The lodge also has an infinity pool, which overlooks some of the best scenes the Mjejane has to offer, and it also has a place for children to safely play.
Those who stay at our lodge can also indulge in as much time as they like out in the reserve on a self-drive safari.
If you wish to stay at the Jacana River Lodge, you can book a weeklong trip or a long weekend break. And we promise that time spent at our lodge will revive your soul and steal a place in your heart.

Packing and Planning for your Mjejane Accommodation
Set in the pristine African bush, and surrounded by all sorts of indigenous animals, Jacana River Lodge has become the go-to holiday destination for countless families looking for a relaxing escape. As Mjejane bush camp accommodation, we offer that rustic getaway in a modern setting, allowing our guests to enjoy an African safari adventure on their own terms.
Mjejane accommodation like ours is self-catered and made for those who are looking to have more choices when it comes to their holiday. Unlike other lodges and hotels in the area, those that offer onsite meals delivered to your room or even have a restaurant at nearby, when you are staying in a self-catered facility, you will have complete freedom to prepare your meals when you feel like it.
But Mjejane self-catered accommodation is just one aspect of the trip that you will have to plan for. When making your way to the Mjejane Private Game Reserve, it can help to have a little more information close at hand as you prepare for your exciting adventure.
Planning your Mjejane Game Reserve Trip
You have your prices, you know where you want to go, and you even know how to get there. Once the logistics are well out of the way, you actually need to get down to making sure that you have the right things packed in your vehicle, and you also need to know how you intend to spend your time in the park.
Decide how you would like to travel
Most travellers heading to the Mjejane Game Reserve will be independent travellers, which means that they are not travelling as a part of a tour group. Although there is always the option of booking a game drive with a local tour company, the reality is that for the vast majority of Mjejane guests, travelling on their own is the norm.
When travelling the reserve independently, you can look forward to taking your Mjejane game reserve map and creating your own adventure. Driving wherever you feel like going means you can choose your own path and perhaps end up seeing far more than the other guests would see. You can also be more in control of the times that you head. This is an especially freeing option if you are traveling with children, and you find yourself needing to be more flexible.
Be safety conscious
Just because you are within the safe confines of a Mjejane River Lodge, it doesn’t mean that you should take chances when it comes to the wildlife. It is of utmost importance that you never take risks with wildlife, and that you follow the Mjejane rules which means stay in your vehicle when you are driving around the park and staying within the lodge boundaries during the times you are not on safari. You should also never feed wildlife as it creates an unsafe environment for both the animals as well as the future guests. Feeding animals can make them reliant on being fed, which can be a danger to the animals.
Pack wisely
A stay at any Mjejane river lodge is one that requires you to pack all of the things that you will need in order to make your stay as comfortable as possible. But when it comes to packing, you have to resist the urge to pack absolutely everything, as you won’t be needing all the things that you think you will need.
What you pack should be determined by the time of year you are travelling and what the weather will be like. The Mjejane boasts all year round warm weather, although in the midst of winter it can get a little chilly in the mornings and evenings. You should also have comfortable shoes, and the usual photographic gadgets.
Make the most of every moment
Some people get so caught up in the packing and planning that when they arrive at their Mjejane booking, they forget that they are on holiday. When you are at this lodge, you should make sure that you turn off the technology and just live in every moment that you are spending in this beautiful setting. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to see all of the sights and to relax.
Jacana River Lodge offers exceptional Mjejane game reserve bookings, and has become one of the best places to stay. You need not overthink your planning as we will include everything you could possibly need in order to make the most of your trip. Our lodge is not your average self-catered lodge, so you won’t need to bring along any cooking or cleaning utensils or cutlery. Just bring your clothes, your family and your friends, and enjoy the bliss of a holiday under the African sun.
Mjejane Game Reserve History
A little bit of history of the Mjejane Game Reserve
The history of the Mjejane Game Reserve is interesting as the reserve started out as farmland and with the vision of those involved was transformed into one of the premiere wildlife reserves in the country, offering safe refuge to millions of wild animals that roam freely now between the Kruger National Park and the Mjejane.
More of that tale from the developers themselves: “Mjejane Game Reserve is developed by Lugedlane Developments (Pty) Ltd which is a joint venture between Safrican and the Lugedlane community. In this case Willie and Hennie Joubert, of Safrican, helped successfully restore the land to the Lugedlane Community through the land claims process, covered the shortfall towards the purchase price of the property and ceded personal assets as guarantee in order to obtain the development finance for the servicing of the first phase.
Today this is a glowing example of how, through research, careful planning and selective development, the natural resource was secured for conservation, and has since been successfully maintained and improved. Through the construction, staffing and management, Mjejane is providing sustainable model for the community members that maximises their income via profits and job creation, and has successfully preserved 4000 hectares of farmland.”
Mjejane Game Reserve Map
Mjejane Game Reserve on the map
Straddling 11km’s of the lazy brown Crocodile River, Mjejane Game Reserve boasts all the Big 5, a real treat for visitors who are fortunate enough to experience the quiet luxury of Mjejane away from the bustling Kruger Park. Mjejaje Game Reserve is situated 4 hours’ drive from Johannesburg and 1 hours’ drive from KMIA International Airport. The Reserve sits on the Kruger National Parks Southern Boundary right between the Crocodile Bridge Gate and the Malelane Gate of the Kruger National Park, near Hectorspruit (Emjejane).FAQ's Mjejane Game Reserve
Frequently asked questions about the Mjejane Game Reserve
How does the Mjejane Private Game Reserve compare to other Private Game Reserves?
The Mjejane Private Game Reserve experience far outperforms the standard private game reserve as all fences are removed between the Mjejane Private Game Reserve and the Kruger National Park, which is the third largest game reserve in the world. This allows the free flow of one of the most diverse and most numerous animals populations on earth to walk up right to where you and your family are enjoying yourselves in 5 Star self-catering luxury at Jacana River Lodge.Is Mjejane part of Kruger?
A glorious yes and what a spectacular honour, as not a lot of private game reserves can boast access to Kruger National Park with the biggest array of animals and plant species on the planet roaming freely between Mjejane and Kruger land, with only the Crocodile River as slow moving majestic boundary.Where is Mjejane Game Reserve?
The Mjejane Game Reserve is situation at Nr 1 Mjejane Bush Camp Road, Hectorspruit, 2021Which popular attractions are close to Mjejane?
The Kruger National Park Graskop Gorge Lift Panorama Route Elephant Tours Chimp Eden Barberton Blyde River Canyon Hectorspruit Komatipoort Malelane Marloth Park Sabi Sands SkukuzaWhat is there to do in Mjejane?
Game viewing from the deck - Jacana River Lodge’s Crocodile River frontage with the Kruger provides ample opportunity to enjoy meandering animals as they go about their daily business. Jacana River Lodge Game Drive in the Mjejane Game Reserve Bush walks / Walking Safaris Jacana River Lodge offers Full and Half Day Game Drives in the Kruger Park Mjejane Game Reserve Bridge Entrance to Kruger National Park Mjejane Bush Spa treatments Kingsland Recreational area picnic facility Malelane Golf club Kambaku Golf Club & Restaurant Swimming Pool at Jacana River Lodge(for Jacana River Lodge guests only) Bird watching Star gazingHow big is Mjejane Game Reserve?
4000 hectares To think long ago the pristine wildlife reserve that is the Mjejane Game Reserve was once farmland now welcomes an amazing array of wild animals onto its 4000 hectares which is connected without any boundary fences to the Kruger National Park, is inspiring as an environmental rehabilitation feat. Visitors to the Jacana River Lodge can cross into the Kruger via a low water bridge that connects to the Parks roads network.Which province is Mjejane Game Reserve in?
Nestled in the Mpumalanga Province as part of the Kruger National Park. Jacana River Lodge is perfectly poised to offer one of the most unique family 5-star self-catering experiences as its perched on the banks of the Crododile River in the Mjejane Game Reserve which is borderless with and incorporated into the Kruger National Park. The Mjejane Private Game Reserve is situated in the Mpumalanga province of South Africa and allows Big 5 interactions that few other private game reserves can boast, as the wildlife from the Kruger Park freely enter the Mjejane Game Reserve.Is Mjejane a malaria area?
Best always be prepared when heading to the Kruger National Park with your mosquito repellent in the hot summer months as the Park does fall into a Malaria area, which includes the Mjejane Game reserve but for many visitors this is a minor concern as it is rare that cases occur if proper care is taken to use mosquito repellents. Alternatively plan your stay at the Jacana River Lodge in the Mjejane Game Reserve for the winter months when the mosquitos take a hiatus. Do note some towns and cities in South Africa are in malaria areas with few cases occurring even in summer months due to responsible human behaviour and residents taking precautionary measures.Where is Hectorspruit situated?
Mpumalanga, between Malelane and Komatipoort. Hectorspruit find itself with two names, the other being Emjejane and it’s located between Komatipoort and Kaapmuiden, very close to the southern tip of the Kruger National Park and the Crododile River in the Mpumalanga province of South Africa. Malelane is also nearby.Is the Mjejane bridge open?
Yes, currently the Mjejane Game Reserve Bridge is open and if you stay at Jacana River Lodge, you are welcome to take your own vehicle and cross in to the Kruger National Park on a self-drive safari or book out our Jacana River Lodge game viewer and experience the Kruger and Mjejane in true safari style. Guests are also welcome to pre-book guided game drives in the Kruger National Park or Mjejane Game Reserve with Jacana River Lodge. This experience is made more exclusive as the Mjejane Game Reserve Bridge is the only private bridge into the Kruger National Park. These options are also only available exclusively to Jacana River Lodge guests.What to Expect from a Stay in the Mjejane Game Reserve
A Reserve on the Banks of the Crocodile Rive
Although there is much to love about this game reserve, and so much to see, one of the greatest pulls the area has is its location. With the Crocodile River running through the reserve, a lot of the best accommodation in the Mjejane has been built to take full advantage of the unique game viewing that can only be experienced along this river’s bank. From out of this world, adrenaline pumping scenes of predators attacking prey, to those pristine sundowner sightings of all sorts of wildlife coming to the river for the last drink of the day, those who are staying in this reserve can witness it all, enjoying their own sort of private safari without ever having to leave the comfort of their accommodation. The Crocodile River is one of the most important rivers in the area. The river starts high up in the Steenkampsberg Mountains of Mpumalanga, close to the misty village of Dullstroom. From its source, the river cascades down towards the Mjejane, flowing, often turbulently, through the Schoemanskloof and Montrose Falls, through the city of Nelspruit, eventually reaching the Mjejane and the Kruger National Park, and then finally joining the Komati River in Komatipoort. The life that is supported by the river thrives on the continuously running waters. During a very rainy summer season, the river floods, spilling water and fertile soil across its flood plains. During the winter, the river runs slowly, providing much needed sustenance to wildlife when the rains are still months away. The river is also home to all kinds of birdlife. Many of the area’s most famous birds build their nests high up in the beautiful indigenous trees that grow close to the river. The Crocodile River is also an important part of tourism in the area, especially in places like the Mjejane, where much of the reserve’s accommodation is built to overlook the river to make the most of the incredible views. If you should want to make the most of the wildlife sightings to be seen close to and around the Crocodile River, be sure to check that the accommodation you are considering offers such views. One of the most popular places with a view of the river is Jacana River Lodge, which has been built in such a way that its rooms and its deck provide guests with the chance to spot all sorts of animals.What to Expect from a Riverside Holiday in the Mjejane Game Reserve?
Staying along a river’s banks is most appealing to those who want to experience the best possible safari. But there are some things to keep in mind if you want to make your holiday as spectacular as possible. 1. Be aware of the wildlife The all of the game reserve accommodation in the Mjejane is properly secured, but that doesn’t mean you should be anything less than fully aware of what is happening around the accommodation. Wild animals are for the most part peaceful unless they are disturbed in which case any animal can become unpredictable. Even if the animals come up close enough to touch, admire them from a distance and always be respectful. Crocodiles and elephant are commonly sighted close to the river banks, and crocodile in particular should always be something you are on the lookout for when outside. 2. It might get humid Having a water source close to your accommodation can make things a lot more hot and humid. Luckily, most accommodation comes with a swimming pool and/or air conditioning, so your stay should not be too affected by the increased heat. 3. Be aware of flooding Again, although the vast majority of accommodation next to the Crocodile River is built high up out of reach of the river, when the flooding season comes it is important to be safety conscious as the fast moving waters can pose a threat. When the river rises, be sure to stay clear of the water. When on holiday in the Mjejane Game Reserve, the river is the source of life and sustenance, it is where you will see some of the best wildlife sightings, and it is the perfect place to sit and look out over on the bright mornings and dusky evenings.Staying in the Mjejane Game Reserve vs. the staying in the Kruger National Park
When deciding whether to stay in the Mjejane or to book a stay in the Kruger National Park, although there is much to consider when weighing up your options, the choice will ultimately come down to personal preference. Planning a holiday should be based as much as possible on the type of holiday that you want to have, and the Mjejane and the Kruger both offer guests a unique experience and each have a lot to look forward to.The Pros of Staying in the Mjejane Game Reserve
The Location Unlike the Kruger National Park, the Mjejane is a lot more exclusive and a lot more private. The reserve doesn’t have day tourist amenities and it is not open to day visitors who are just looking to pass through. The reserve is made exclusively for overnight guests, with much of the accommodation tailored to those who are staying for more than a single night. Given the reserve’s out of reach appeal and the fact that the roads aren’t going to be busy with day guests, makes a holiday here one that is guaranteed to be a lot more laidback and relaxing. The Accommodation The Mjejane is one of those places that one goes to when looking for a more luxurious sort of holiday. While the reserve does have some more rustic accommodation, such as camping, it is best known for its luxury accommodation, which it has in abundance. The accommodation in the reserve provides everything one could expect from a luxurious stay, with some accommodation even having a spa. From spacious rooms overlooking pristine views of the African landscape to decks kitted out with everything you could need to prepare a fireside meal, accommodation in this reserve has it all. The Activities Unlike the Kruger National Park, the Mjejane doesn’t have as many activities. For the most part the park has a lot more activities such as movie nights in certain camps and museums to explore, for guests to enjoy. By contrast, the Mjejane is primarily built around the concept of going on a self-drive safari, although there are some places where guests can sign up for a safari game drive. What the reserve does not have is outside safari tour companies coming in with day visitors, something that the Kruger has a lot of. The Game Viewing By and large the Mjejane is considered a premier destination for wildlife viewing in Africa, ranking higher than the Kruger National Park. The reserve has been incorporated into the Kruger National Park, with wildlife able to move seamlessly between the two areas due to the open fences. Often, more wildlife can be spotted in the Mjejane, especially in those areas where the Crocodile River runs. Guests don’t even have to leave their accommodation to make the most of the sightings, what with most of the lodges and guesthouses overlooking the river. Most of the game viewing here can be done as part of a self-drive safari, and there are some instances where you can experience a guided game walk.The Pros of Staying in the Kruger National Park
The Location The Kruger is a public park which means it is easily accessible to everyone who wants to visit. This takes away any air of exclusivity and it also means that the Kruger is a lot busier than the Mjejane. For the most part, the Kruger is really easy to get to and since it is a huge reservation, there are some places that are quite out of reach and as such unpopular with the crowds, so if you are looking to escape into the wild, plan accordingly. The Accommodation The huge variety of Kruger Park accommodation allows for guests to pick and choose the ideal option for their unique needs and expectations. For those who are looking for something a little more luxurious, there is the higher end accommodation and for those who are wanting something more rustic, there is the option of camping. Each camp in the Kruger has something different, but nothing quite as exclusive and as out of the way as the accommodation found in the Mjejane. The Activities When compared to the Mjejane Game Reserve, the Kruger has a whole lot more activities, which can be booked at the camps or the activities can be included in a pre-packaged Kruger Park safari. Popular activities include game drives, bush walks, social events, visits to camp museums, and time spent exploring the many archaeological sites. This can be more appealing to those who want to get out there and mingle with their fellow guests, but for those who are looking for lazy, relaxed days, the Mjejane can be the best option. The Game Viewing The vastness of the Kruger National Park can make game viewing a little more difficult. By contrast, the smaller size of the Mjejane can make it easier to see all of the different types of animals, including the Big 5, without having to spend all of the holiday on the road. The fact that the Mjejane and the Kruger share an open boarder allows for the wildlife to move from one area to the next and as such the wildlife that you can encounter in the Kruger are easily viewed in the Mjejane. And with much of the accommodation built close to the Crocodile River, sometimes guests don’t even have to leave their accommodation to see all sorts of interesting things. Both the Kruger and the Mjejane are close to a number of other exciting South African attractions, such as the Panorama Route, The Graskop Gorge Company and numerous interesting small towns all waiting to be explored. When planning your trip, be sure to take into consideration these nearby attractions, as they can add a bit more excitement and variety to your holiday. The Mjejane holiday is that unforgettable experience that will stay with you, urging you to make another trip. All year round the weather is perfect and with such an abundance of wildlife to see, the Mjejane Game Reserve is a place that is ideal for that family safari holiday. At Jacana River Lodge we have some of the finest accommodation in the reserve and ours is perfect for long weekend breaks as well as annual family getaways. A large house built to look out over the river, Jacana is a place of peace and quiet, an escape from an otherwise busy world and the lodge comes with all of the basic amenities to make your stay as comfortable as possible. When staying at Jacana, you don’t have to leave the lodge to see the wildlife, with some of the best sightings coming by chance when looking out of a bedroom window or while sitting on the deck enjoying a sundowner. For anyone wanting that exclusive African holiday experience, the Mjejane is the perfect place to book a trip to. For more information about what to expect when staying here and how to plan the ultimate experience, have a look at our website or get in touch with us.Mjejane’s Climate Through The Seasons – What to Expect
Situated in the wildest corner of South Africa, thousands of adventurers choose to make the Mjejane their destination of choice when coming to our picturesque country for a safari style holiday. From the luxury Mjejane accommodation to the many incredible wildlife sightings to be enjoyed, when you make the Mjejane Game Reserve your holiday destination of choice, you can look forward to one of the most memorable and relaxing getaways of your life.
Planning a trip into the Mjejane Game Reserve takes some careful planning. Each month of the year, and each changing season, brings something new and exciting to see and experience. Africa is a continent alive with colours, smells and feelings that you will not find anywhere else on earth. When spending time in the Mjejane, at a certain time of the year, things look and smell different to how you would experience your holiday if you were to visit at another time. For this reason and so many, many others, choosing your season and your month just right will make your trip that little bit more unique to you.
To help you get a better idea of what to expect throughout the year, and to assist you with your planning so that you pack the right clothing, here’s a look through the seasons in the Mjejane Game Reserve.
Autumn
The light starts to fade at this time of the year, but the sunlight somehow becomes brighter. As the last of the rains fall and the heat quickly begins to retreat, a rich, dry earthy smell fills the air. Autumn is considered one of the best times of the year to visit, just because it is not so unbearably hot. And as the grasses begin to die back, and as animals are no longer sheltering from heat, wildlife sightings at all times of the day become the norm once more.
Autumns are a special time. While the Mjejane Game Reserve has a few evergreens, there are also deciduous trees and shrubs, whose colours begins to change to soft yellows, bright oranges, and then finally deep reds, before shedding, only to return in the spring.
At this time of the year, you can enjoy delightfully warm days and evenings spent around a fire, bundled up and enjoying the busy sounds of bats and birds.
Winter
The days are mild, peaking at around 26 degrees Celsius on a good day and 14 degrees on a cold one. The earth is dry again, so dry that there is barely a green stem or leaf in sight. But nature finds a way to carry on, and the wildlife can be seen in great amounts close to watering holes and near to the plants and trees that will not lose their greenery.
The days might be shorter, but this is certainly considered by many to be the very best time of the year to visit the Mjejane Game Reserve. There is just so much to see here, and if you are visiting from a colder climate, you will find the winter days are a lot more comfortable than that intense summer heat.
The lack of dense bush makes wildlife sightings an incredibly common occurrence, so if you have a special bucket list of wildlife that you hope to see, this is certainly the right time to book your trip. Depending on where you are staying, you can expect to see the animals right up close to your accommodation.
It barely ever rains here at this time of year, and there is certainly no chance of snow, but you should bring along extra moisturiser, because when the wind starts to kick up, as it does in our part of the world, it can be harsh on your skin. You should also bring along sunblock, because our winters are always sunny.
And if you are travelling late in the season, keep in mind that in the Mjejane Game Reserve, winter can turn into spring overnight, so packing some lighter clothing is a must when travelling in August and September.
Spring
The buds are forming, and some are blooming, filling the air with a most heady fragrance, the gentle first rains have dampened the parched earth, and the new babies have been born.
Spring is one of those times of the year that is magical no matter where you are in the world, but in the Mjejane it is extra special as the energy and excitement of the coming warmer months can be felt everywhere, from the park staff and visitors to the wildlife.
Although spring in the northern hemisphere can still be quite cold, with light frosts, in Africa spring can feel like the middle of summer on some days. The heat comes quite quickly and with it comes brighter early mornings and a later setting sun, giving you more time to enjoy the great outdoors and the many animal sightings that the Mjejane has to offer. But while the days might be warmer, bringing along a warmer bit of clothing is a must to fend off those sudden end of winter cool spells that sometimes return unexpectedly.
Because the intense summer rains and storms have not yet arrived, the bushveld is still quite dry, which is a plus for you because the dry vegetation makes it so much easier to spot wildlife. Once the rains arrive, the bush becomes dense and overgrown, making it that little bit harder to see animals.
Summer
Summers in the Mjejane include something that you won’t be able to experience at any other time of the year, and that is thunderstorms. Nothing is as magnificent as an African thunderstorm. The energy in the air as majestic storm clouds begin to gather in the late morning, and in the distance the lightning begins its dance, is palpable.
And with the rains, comes lots more humidity and the thickening of grass and bush.
Since the days get so warm, safari drives in the Mjejane Game Reserve should be reserved for early mornings and late afternoons, when animals are not hiding from the heat.
Regarded by many as one of the not so great times of the year to visit the Mjejane, if you are not too concerned about working up a sweat, summer can actually be a wonderful season to go on holiday in the reserve.
You already know that summers in Africa are on a planet of their own. The days not only regularly reach highs of 34 to 42 degrees Celsius, but that are also often blanketed in 80 to 100% humidity. With good planning and by making sure that your accommodation offers air conditioning and a swimming pool, you’ll be glad you decided to have a taste of a truly African summer.
Mjejane Game Reserve & Kruger National Park Entrance Costs
Mjejane Game Reserve & Kruger National Park Entrance Costs
Mjejane Game Reserve Low-Level Bridge Entrance to Kruger National Park (KNP)
SanParks Entry Fees (1 November 2020 to 31 October 2021):
With Wildcard Membership:
- Conservation Fees (KNP Entrance):
- Adults (12+): R0
- Children (under 12): R0
- SanParks Booking Fee:
- Adults (12+): R48 per person
- Children (under 12): R24 per person
- Community Fee (Mjejane Community):
- Per Vehicle: R24
- Per Person: R25
- Open Safari Vehicle Fee (SanParks Cost):
- Per Person: R25
Without Wildcard Membership:
- Conservation Fees:
- Local Adults: R105 per person
- SADC Adults: R210 per person
- International Adults: R424 per person
- Children under 12 – Local: R52 per person
- Children under 12 – SADC: R105 per person
- Children under 12 – International: R212 per person
- SanParks Booking Fee:
- Adults (12+): R48 per person
- Children (under 12): R24 per person
- Community Fee:
- Per Person: R25
- Per Vehicle: R25
- Open Safari Vehicle Fee:
- Per Vehicle (up to 10 guests): R35 per vehicle
- Children under 2 Years of Age: R0
Jacana River Lodge - Open Safari Vehicle Fees:
- Half-Day Kruger Safari (±6 Hours): R2,750.00
- Full-Day Kruger Safari (±12 Hours): R4,250.00
Please note: These rates do not include KNP SanParks Entry Fees. We use one of the Mjejane Game Reserve Rangers for these safaris.