Leopard Mountain Safari Lodge

This Big 5, multi-award-winning family run, 5-star game lodge is located high up in the wild secluded hills of the 23 000ha Manyoni Private Game Reserve, with spectacular views overlooking a vast stretch of unspoilt bush veld and riverine forests, from the Umsunduze River meandering below to the distant Lebombo Mountains. Join us in an environment where conservation is of utmost importance and a priority in our everyday living.

A warm welcome awaits you at Leopard Mountain Game Lodge where we will care for your every need in a peaceful atmosphere. Relax in the comfort of our beautiful lounge and dining room or dine under the stars at night where our sought after chef has prepared traditional South African tantalising cuisine. Select a bottle of wine from our unique multi-award winning cellar.

Your luxurious well appointed stone and thatch chalet with double basins, large vanity area and open shower, provides a haven of peace and tranquillity where you can watch the sun and moon rise over the African horizon. By day, relax in your hammock or private plunge pool and watch eagles soar at eye level over the plain below and by night, marvel at the magnificence of the African night sky.

Entrust us with those special occasions. The picture perfect backdrop of the African bush veld lends itself as a perfect setting for a romantic wedding, honeymoon or just a well deserved break. The highlight of your stay... Take a Big 5 game drive to get up close and personal with some of Africa's endangered species such as the Black Rhino, Cheetah, Brown Hyaena and Wild Dog. Enjoy sundowners amidst the lush Zululand bush veld.

A day at Leopard Mountain begins when you are woken by the soft bush sounds surrounding your chalet as dawn breaks. After a good cup of coffee and some traditional rusks you will be escorted to your open game vehicle and introduced to your knowledgeable ranger who will enlighten you about the wildlife wonders. On return to the lodge, a delectable breakfast awaits after which you can enjoy a leisurely morning at your own pace.

In the early afternoon, you will be invited to come and enjoy an Afternoon Tea while overlooking the breath taking views from the deck. After quenching your thirst and having a bite to eat, you will be off again with your ranger to explore some different areas on the Reserve. During your drive you will be treated to a sundowner or two while you watch the sun set over the mountains and perhaps hear the distant roar of lions. On return to the lodge, you will be just in time to freshen up for a dinner under African skies. After a delicious Boma feast, guests often sit around the bonfire to share exciting stories of wildlife encounters.

Our guided walking safaris are an optional extra. This extraordinary experience offers an intimate encounter with the African bush veld and Big 5 animals on foot. Our qualified and experienced guides will take you to places beyond the reach of our vehicles.

About Manyoni Private Game Reserve

The reserve lies within the Msunduzi valley in northern Zululand in the province of Kwa-Zulu Natal, South Africa. The area falls under the Mkuze Valley Lowveld vegetation type, varying from open Savanna thornveld, bushveld to riverine woodland, characterized by Acacia’s and Marula tree species. The reserve has over 70 Mammal species and an exceptional diversity of birdlife.

After a decade of hard work and commitment, the Zululand Rhino Reserve has given birth to a new name and identity. Manyoni Private Game Reserve means the “place of birds” in isiZulu and is apt to describe this unique reserve, nestled in the heart of Zululand. The reserve offers “Big 5” game viewing and conservation is a top priority. The rolling valleys and hills offer awe-inspiring views framed by the Ubombo mountain range. From birds soaring above to the animals walking below, every aspect of the reserve has a profound impact on all who encounter it.

The Manyoni Private Game Reserve was created when 17 dedicated landowners dropped their fences to create a 23 000-ha protected area that was chosen as a release site for the WWF Black Rhino Range Expansion Project. After the introduction of black rhinos, a herd of elephant from the Kruger National Park were translocated to the reserve. Cheetah were reintroduced in 2009. The reserve achieved “Big 5” status when lions were introduced in 2011. More recently, a pack of African wild dogs, the most endangered carnivore in South Africa, were introduced.