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The Royal Portfolio

Royal Malewane | Waterside

Limpopo, Africa

Redefining what it means to go on safari.

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Property Overview

Waterside has redefined what it means to go on a modern African safari. From the moment you step across the floating entrance bridge, you’ll instantly feel the warm, welcoming ambience of the lodge and the invigorating energy of the African bush. The views of the bustling waterhole fringed by fever trees will draw you in. Being able to watch wildlife from the lodge is the first hint of the memorable modern safari to come. Speaking to the bold, seasonal hues of the bush, Waterside elevates every shade found in nature. Each room is individually decorated and designed by founder, Liz Biden, an eclectic and generous interpretation of color, texture, and tone framed by thatch, glass, and steel. Waterside brings a splash of color to Royal Malewane, and a sense of celebration.

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SmartFlyer Exclusives

  • Upgrade on arrival, subject to availability (not applicable to Royal Suites or Africa House)
  • Daily breakfast for up to two guests per bedroom, served in the restaurant and via in-room dining (already included in property rates)
  • Guests choice of ONE of the following: A $100 Gift from Royal Portfolio OR $100 donation to the philanthropic projects of The Royal Portfolio Foundation.
  • Early Check-In / Late Check-Out, subject to availability
  • Complimentary Wi-Fi

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Agent Tips

  • There are only thirteen Professional Field Guides with FGASA Scout status in the world, and two of those are on the Royal Malewane team.
Accommodations

Offering a serene and exclusive retreat.

The Luxury Suites each have a private deck, day bed, and a plunge pool. Rooms can be made up as a twin or a king configuration. The Aloe Rooms are two elegant one-bedroom suites, each with a well-appointed bathroom and toilet. Unwind on a private deck with a plunge pool, offering a serene and exclusive retreat. Feel the comforts of home merge with the rustic wilderness beyond your private deck in the two-bedroom Baobab Suite.​⁠ Accommodation at Waterside House is spacious and elegant with vibrantly natural furnishings. Natural light floods into the four en-suite bedrooms, each of which enjoys a private deck.
Pool + Gym

A moment to float between game drives.

The lodge has invested in an innovative, integrated heating system that uses solar energy and hydronics to heat its pools. Waterside has a fully equipped fitness center, perfect for keeping up your fitness while on safari.
Spa

A moment to unwind.

Reflections Spa at Waterside is a tranquil space to relax and reset when you return from engaging safari drives.
Restaurant + Bar

Culinary artistry without limits.

Savor a dining experience where anything is possible. Royal Malewane celebrates the creativity and joy of food and wine through inventive, personalized menus that are designed and prepared by world-class chefs.

The Fever Tree bar, overlooking the waterhole, is the perfect sunset retreat. Sip signature cocktails as golden light bathes the landscape and wildlife gathers below, creating an unforgettable safari experience.
  • Vibe
    Experience meaningful and often life-changing encounters with wildlife replacing bustling city life with the tranquil sounds and splendor of untamed nature. Time slows down as your body adjusts to the natural rhythms of the African bush. This is a modern take on luxury, where time, space, and seclusion are the most important elements, all while being hosted by the most qualified guiding team in Africa.
  • Who's it for?
    Waterside at Royal Malewane caters to those seeking adventure, relaxation, romance, and family-friendly experiences. Enjoy thrilling safaris with expert guides, unwind at the spa or pool, and connect as a family at Waterside House, the exclusive-use private villa, featuring private services, tailored activities, and spacious suites. It’s the perfect blend of excitement, elegance, and multigenerational safari experiences.
  • Location
    Royal Malewane is located in Thornybush Private Game Reserve, part of The Greater Kruger. The Greater Kruger refers to the Kruger National Park itself as well as the private game reserves on its Western border, such as the Sabi Sand, Timbavati, Manyeleti, and Thornybush Private Game Reserve. The Kruger National Park is the largest game reserve in South Africa and one of the world’s biggest wildlife sanctuaries. Approximately the same size as Israel or Wales, it covers some 19,485 square kilometers offering a rich diversity of ecosystems that support over 145 mammal species, including lions, leopards, buffalo, elephants, and black rhinos that make up Africa’s Big Five and over 500 bird species.

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