Manyeleti is part of the Greater Kruger ecosystem and offers a very genuine bush experience. Wildlife viewing is a bit slower here than in some top private reserves such as neighboring Timbavati. Although all of the Big Five are present, the emphasis is more on looking at all wild creatures big and small.
Wildlife Highlights
The reserve offers a good environment for plains game such as Burchell’s zebra and blue wildebeest. Big cats can be hard to find, but look out for cheetah in the open areas. Black-backed and side-striped jackal can often be seen trotting along, and unusual antelope such as greater kudu, nyala and the rare sable antelope can also be spotted.
Best Time for Wildlife Viewing
Overall, the dry months of June through September are the best for wildlife viewing. August to September, when the Dry season ends, is a very enjoyable time since it is warmer than in mid-winter and wildlife is easier to spot because animals tend to cluster around predicable water sources.