Best Getaways 
Abelana Safari Camp
Abelana Safari Camp is an intimate camp, accommodating 8 guests in 4 luxury, en-suite tents within the Abelana Game Reserve, a 15,000-ha Big Five game reserve adjacent to the Greater Kruger National Park and the Selati Game Reserve. The reserve is close to the town of Phalaborwa in South Africa’s beautiful Lowveld. Owned by the Mashishimale community, the word “abelana” means “to share amongst each other” in the local Northern Sotho language. This spirit of sharing underpins the relationship between the Mashishimale and its lodge operations partner which leases the land for eco-tourism purposes. The small, intimate, unfenced Safari Camp on the banks of the Selati River, features a spectacular viewing deck and a well-appointed, tented lounge and dining area where guests can relax, eat, and connect. The Meru-style tents are simple yet comfortable and well-appointed, offering an authentic safari experience. The tents are all equipped with beds offering a pedestal fan, and twin or king-size bed configuration with lighting provided by solar power. The en-suite bathroom is fitted with a shower, basin and flushing toilet with hot water provided by gas geysers. Each tent opens to a private deck overlooking the bush. Our rates include Accommodation, Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner and game drives. Abelana is home to a rich diversity of fauna and flora, from the hippos and crocodiles that make the Selati River their home and the famed Big Five - elephant, rhino, leopard, lion and buffalo – as well as cheetah and wild dog, which are occasional visitors, to an impressive number of endemic bird species including the African fish eagle, peregrine falcon, Arnot’s chat, thick-billed cuckoo, bat hawk and elusive Pel’s fishing owl.
Area Info
Some of our favourite Route 71 destinations include the delightful Haenertsburg, with its quaint cafés and knick-knack shops, Magoebaskloof Canopy Tours and Magoebaskloof Hiking Trails. Enjoy the magnificent drive around Tzaneen Dam, organic farm stalls and dairies, and venture to the Qualito Craft Distillery in Phalaborwa, for those with a refined taste for adventure.
