Overview, trip report, images, and reviews from our visit to Bushtime at Mabula.
Overview
“Situated at the foothills of the Waterberg Mountains in a private game reserve, is one of Africa’s hidden secrets. Whether taking a short break or a well-deserved holiday, BushTime at Mabula has it all. Situated at the foothills of the Waterberg mountains, within the 10 000 hectares Mabula Private Game Reserve, this bush resort offers prolific game which includes the “Big 5” and more than 300 recorded bird species.
The accommodation units are located in four separate camps each with its’ own unique setting. “Modjadji” has the bush and wide open plains, “Sunset Hill” has views forever and sunsets that only Africa can offer, while “Bush and Game Lodge” has magnificent views over the plains and distant hills. The chalets have been spaced to maximize privacy and enhance the feeling of being in the wild.
All the units are fully self-catering and range from one-bedroom chalets to six-bedroom bush camps. A mere two hours drive from Johannesburg this malaria-free Reserve will ensure that you leave feeling rejuvenated, with memories of quality time spent with family and friends, having experienced the wonders of the African bushveld.”
Bushtime at Mabula Trip Report
Summary of our 8th annual family vacation at Mabula Private Game Reserve (Bushtime at Mabula).
Preparation for our annual family get-together at Mabula Private Game Reserve starts in January, with the last activities on the morning of our departure. With this completed, we departed for our destination and made good time – even with the light rain and traffic law enforcement present.
Driving through the entrance gates, it feels as if the hustle and bustle of work and city life just fall away. As always, check-in at Mabula went very smoothly, with all the COVID-19 protocols in place and enforced. Off-loading and unpacking all the provisions and equipment was done and we relaxed whilst waiting for the rest of our party to arrive.
The rest of our family arrived shortly afterward and we were ready for a week of relaxation and spending precious time together. Not everyone could spend the whole week, but we were happy to share what time we had.
We had scheduled safari drives for each day, which is the highlight of the day. The well-qualified safari guides always make these drives very informative and educational and they go out of their way to take you to the best wildlife sightings.
Although we missed a couple of safari drives due to rain, we were still privileged to have the most amazing sightings and photo opportunities. The veld and the animals were in good condition as a result of the good rainfall that they received.
We observed a cheetah mom and her four juvenile cubs preparing for a hunt, which unfortunately did not go according to plan due to the inexperience of the cubs. We also spent time extremely close to a couple of elephants feeding… very humbling to be in their presence. Apart from these highlights, all the usual suspects were seen and Mabula, as always, did not disappoint.
It was again wonderful to spend time with our family and share precious memories. With heavy hearts, we had to pack up, and all too soon we had to say our goodbyes: to family and magical Mabula. Until next time…