WORDS: DEBBIE HATHWAY :: PHOTOS: SUPPLIED
Wealth intelligence firm New World Wealth has reviewed the top wildlife estates in SA for 2023. We look at opportunities for life in the bush.
For their Africa Wealth Report rating of the top 10 wildlife estates in South Africa, New World Wealth defines them as estates or reserves that boast abundant wildlife and offer individuals the opportunity to purchase private homes in the untamed wilderness. These estates are predominantly found in South Africa but are expected to gain in popularity in other countries such as Namibia, Kenya, the US, Australia, Canada, and Brazil are prominent in the coming decades.
Leadwood Big Game Estate
CONTRIBUTION TO CONSERVATION ENDEAVOURS
Amidst the diminishing wild areas across the globe, wildlife estates can potentially assume a significant role in conservation efforts. Their importance becomes particularly pronounced in the conservation of birdlife and protecting Africa’s largest eagles, the Martial Eagle, the Crowned Eagle and Verreaux’s Eagle, all of which face increasing endangerment.
According to the report, this group is Africa’s Big 3 Eagles. They perform a vital role in keeping the continent’s various ecosystems balanced and serve as a key barometer for the health of various habitats. The Crowned Eagle is the reference for jungles, whilst the Martial Eagle serves that purpose for savannah areas.
TOP 10 WILDLIFE ESTATES FOR 2023
New World Wealth rates qualifying properties based on location, views and scenery, wildlife and birdlife experience, design and space, and maintenance. The top 10 are as follows (in no particular order):
ELEPHANT POINT: EXQUISITE PRIVATE RESERVE ON THE BANKS OF THE SABIE RIVER
Situated on the Sabie River and bordering the Kruger National Park, Elephant Point is an exceptional and exclusive private reserve. Managed by Legacy Private Residences, it offers a captivating experience for nature enthusiasts.
Elephant Point
ROYALSTON COASTAL WILDLIFE ESTATE: SANCTUARY FOR RARE SPECIES
Just outside Port Elizabeth, the Royalston Coastal Wildlife Estate is a remarkable haven boasting a delightful blend of forest and grassland vegetation. It provides a safe refuge for numerous rare species, including the Sable Antelope, Gemsbok, Golden Wildebeest, Black Impala, Knysna Woodpecker, Crowned Eagle, Caracal, and Honey Badger.
LEADWOOD BIG GAME ESTATE: WHERE WILDLIFE ROAMS FREE
Situated within a sprawling big game conservancy near Hoedspruit, Leadwood Big Game Estate spans 5,500ha of bushveld between the Kruger National Park and the Blyde River Canyon. Here, majestic creatures such as lions, elephants, leopards, and rhinos roam freely, creating an awe-inspiring natural environment.
Leadwood Big Game Estate
LEOPARD CREEK: GOLF AND WILDLIFE OASIS NEAR MALELANE
A coveted destination for the affluent, Leopard Creek is a prestigious golf and wildlife estate near Malelane. Its prime stands are positioned alongside the game fence overlooking the Crocodile River in Kruger National Park. With its exclusivity and a golf course often rated among the world’s finest, Leopard Creek is a sought-after hotspot.
LIKWETI BUSHVELD FARM ESTATE: WHERE BIRDLIFE FLOURISHES
Positioned near White River, Likweti Bushveld Farm Estate is set on 765 hectares of land, captivating visitors with its impressive bird species. Led by renowned international bird guide Marc Cronje, regular bird walks offer a highly recommended experience. Setting itself apart, this estate incorporates a 17-hectare income-generating Macadamia orchard for the benefit of all homeowners, exemplifying innovative estate management. More than 45% of the 50 exclusive stands on offer in Likweti Views, the third phase of this development, have sold in just over a year. The first two phases are sold out.
Likweti Bushveld Farm Estate
MJEJANE: RIVERSIDE GAME RESERVE OPEN TO KRUGER NATIONAL PARK
Located on the banks of the Crocodile River, adjacent to Leopard Creek, Mjejane is a 4,000ha game reserve seamlessly integrated with South Africa’s main national park, the Kruger National Park. With no fences separating them, Mjejane offers private homes and upscale lodges, including the renowned Mjejane River Lodge.
RAPTOR’S VIEW: PIONEERING WILDLIFE ESTATE FOR BIRD LOVERS
As one of the first wildlife estates in South Africa, Raptor’s View has thrived for over 20 years. Tucked away on the outskirts of Hoedspruit, it serves as a paradise for bird enthusiasts, with more than 200 recorded species to date.
Raptor’s View
GONDWANA: PRISTINE GAME RESERVE ON THE GARDEN ROUTE
Encompassing an expansive 11,000ha near Mossel Bay, Gondwana is a captivating game reserve along the renowned Garden Route. While the private residences occupy only a small portion of the reserve, Gondwana is the world’s sole Fynbos reserve where the Big Five roam free.
HOEDSPRUIT WILDLIFE ESTATE: SERENE HAVEN IN SA’S WILDLIFE ESTATE CAPITAL
Located in Hoedspruit, South Africa’s wildlife estate capital, Hoedspruit Wildlife Estate sprawls across expansive green belts, delightful bird hides, and walking trails. This estate offers endless opportunities to immerse oneself in nature. Hollywood actor Tom Cruise recently resided on the estate while filming a new movie.
ZANDSPRUIT BUSH & AERO ESTATE: WHERE NATURE MEETS AVIATION
Near Hoedspruit, Zandspruit Bush & Aero Estate offers a unique blend of natural beauty and aviation convenience. The estate boasts notable features such as a private airstrip, providing residents a seamless connection to the skies. Adding to its allure, a picturesque seasonal riverbed gracefully meanders through the heart of the estate, while the awe-inspiring Klein Drakensberg Mountains serve as a breathtaking backdrop.
