As national director of the Quadriplegic Association of South Africa,
I was recently invited by Mala Mala to try out their new facilities constructed
especially to accommodate disabled guests. They are fantastic and absolutely
in line with international standards. Well done Mala Mala!
The disabled suite is well placed overlooking a water feature cascading into a waterhole. On the first afternoon, I sat in my wheelchair in the lounge of the suite and nervously watched buffalo drinking, 50 metres from my room.
The bathroom has all the necessary fittings that are required by wheelchair
users including a wheel-in shower and even includes such luxuries as a
towel warmer. The writing desk is perfectly placed at the right height
and the entire layout of the room is fantastic; spacious and to perfect
specifications.
The Landrover used is equipped to comfortably and safely take disabled guests on game drives. There is a choice of foam or sheepskin cushions, a removable seat and chest belt and a hand strap to hold on to. The rangers had no difficulty in assisting me into the front seat.
The game viewing at Mala Mala is incredible with close up sightings of all members of the Big Five - lion, leopard, elephant, rhino and buffalo - together with the many species of antelope, birds and insects. The ranger who hosted me during my time at the reserve was constantly attentive to my needs and wellbeing, not only during game dives but also while in camp. The descriptions and anecdotes of the bush and the knowledge which he imparted were enlightening and informative and I have since joined the thousands of other guests who have been privileged to share Mala Mala - An Ambassador for Wildlife.
The open-air dinner in the Mala Mala reed enclosed boma under an ancient Transvaal ebony tree was another highlight of my trip to the bush. The table at which I was seated was especially made to accommodate both me and my wheelchair - the perfect height and width to clear the wheelchair with no hindrance.
It is incredible that the whole Mala Mala Camp has adequate flat paths to allow access anywhere.
Mala Mala Main Camp with its facilities for the disabled allowed my disability to take second place - the surrounding nature, conservation and the wild came first. A rare treat! Thank you Mala Mala.
Ari Sierlis.
* Mala Mala game lodge is represented in the UK by Exclusive Retreats. Tel: 01733 253076. Web: www.exclusiveretreats.com