Game lodge with a runway - Fly to Mattanu Private Game Reserve
- Johnny K
- Jan 4
- 5 min read
Updated: 4 days ago
Flying into the Wild: Mattanu’s Private Runway, Fly-In Safaris & Gliding Adventure
Imagine gliding silently over a golden Kalahari landscape, spotting herds of antelope from the sky, then landing on your own private airstrip — no long road transfers, just the call of the wild and the serenity of a private game lodge. That’s exactly what Mattanu Private Game Reserve offers to aviation lovers, glider pilots, and adventurous safari travelers. The ultimate game lodge with a runway.
Game lodge with a runway
Mattanu isn’t just any game lodge — it’s one of the rare private reserves in South Africa with its own dedicated airstrip.
This runway was purpose-built for light aircraft, gyrocopters, and self-launch gliders, making it a dream destination for self-fly safaris, fly-in weekends, or even group fly-ins for aviation clubs.
Instead of arriving by rough roads, guests can touch down directly on-site, offering seamless access that elevates the safari experience. Fly to Mattanu with Kriek Helicopters or Heli Buyers.
Gliding & Soaring Magic
For glider pilots, the airspace around Mattanu is particularly attractive:
It sits in prime gliding territory, close to renowned soaring hubs like Gariep Dam, Big Water Aero, and Tempe Airfield.
The region offers strong thermals, wide-open terrain, and relatively low air traffic — ideal for cross-country flights or a peaceful soaring safari.
Mattanu’s runway functions as a stopover point or even a base camp for glider expeditions, making it easier to combine aviation with wildlife adventures.
Picture this: drifting over herds of giraffe or antelope, the glider only whispering in the breeze, then gently touching down for sundowners in a luxury tent.
The Ultimate Aviation Safari
Mattanu masterfully marries luxury safari living with aviation convenience:
After landing, guests can enjoy safari drives, helicopter excursions, or just relax in their tented accommodation.
The lodge offers fine dining, spa treatments, and even aerial photography opportunities — perfect for pilots who appreciate high-flying luxury.
It’s also a favorite for aviation group events, pilot club fly-ins, or gliding gatherings.
Gyrocopters on the Mattanu runway apron
Location & Accessibility
Mattanu is located near Kimberley in South Africa’s Northern Cape, in the green Kalahari region.
It’s also relatively accessible from major centers like Bloemfontein, Kathu, Kuruman, Postmasburg, and Hartswater.
The reserve is malaria-free, making it an even more attractive destination for international pilots and travelers.
Enlarged apron can accommodate a number of aircraft
Getting to Mattanu by Air
Once you land on the private runway, you’re already on the property — no long road transfers required.
For helicopter travelers, scenic flights can be arranged through Kriek Helicopters, combining luxury aerial transfer with aerial views of the bush.
If you’d like more specific flight planning help or directions, Mattanu’s reservations team is accessible via reservations@mattanu.com or +27 60 988 5555. You can also visit www.mattanu.com for further information.
Why Mattanu Is an Aviation-Safari Must
Seamless Arrival: Landing right at the lodge makes your journey part of the adventure.
Glider Paradise: Ideal conditions and location for soaring pilots.
Luxury Meets Wild: Upscale accommodation meets authentic safari experiences.
Flexible for All Flyers: Whether you fly a small plane, glider, or helicopter, Mattanu welcomes you.
Event Potential: Great for pilot club weekends, group fly-ins, or special aviation-focused safari packages.
Book your fly-in safari at Mattanu today - reservations@mattanu.com - +27609885555.
Frequently Asked Questions – Game Lodges with Runways & Fly-In Safaris in South Africa
What is a game lodge with a runway?
A game lodge with a runway is a safari destination that has its own private airstrip, allowing guests to fly directly into the lodge by aircraft or helicopter. This eliminates long road transfers and provides a seamless, luxury travel experience straight into the heart of the bush.
Which game lodges in South Africa have private airstrips?
Several private game reserves and safari lodges in South Africa feature airstrips, including select lodges in the Northern Cape, Limpopo, Kruger region, and Madikwe. Mattanu Private Game Reserve is one example of a fly-in destination with a dedicated runway designed for light aircraft, helicopters, and aviation safaris.
Can I fly directly to a game lodge by helicopter?
Yes. Many fly-in safari lodges in South Africa can be accessed directly by helicopter. Helicopter charters offer the fastest and most flexible way to reach remote lodges, providing scenic aerial views and direct landing at or near the lodge’s airstrip or helipad.
What are the benefits of a fly-in safari compared to road travel?
Fly-in safaris save time, offer greater comfort, and provide exclusive access to remote destinations. Guests avoid long road transfers, arrive directly at the lodge, and enjoy breathtaking aerial views of South Africa’s landscapes, wildlife, rivers, and mountains.
Can private aircraft land at game lodge airstrips?
Yes. Many private game lodges in South Africa are designed to accommodate light aircraft such as turboprops and small jets, depending on runway length and surface type. Pilots or charter operators must confirm landing requirements and permissions with each lodge in advance.
Is Mattanu Private Game Reserve a fly-in destination?
Yes. Mattanu Private Game Reserve is a well-known fly-in safari destination near Kimberley in the Northern Cape. It features a private runway that accommodates light aircraft, helicopters, and aviation enthusiasts seeking a seamless bushveld arrival experience.
Are helicopter transfers available to game lodges in South Africa?
Yes. Helicopter transfers are widely available to luxury safari lodges and private reserves across South Africa. These transfers are commonly used for VIP travel, honeymoon safaris, corporate groups, and guests seeking a fast and exclusive travel option.
What type of aircraft can use lodge airstrips?
Most lodge airstrips are suitable for light aircraft, turboprops, and helicopters. Aircraft such as Cessna Caravans, King Airs, and similar models are commonly used for safari fly-ins, depending on runway conditions and lodge specifications.
Do fly-in safari lodges offer luxury accommodation?
Yes. Fly-in safari lodges typically offer luxury accommodation options such as tented suites, chalets, or private villas. Many lodges also include game drives, fine dining, guided bush experiences, and conservation activities as part of the safari experience.
Is a fly-in safari suitable for families?
Yes. Fly-in safaris are suitable for families, couples, and groups. They are especially popular with international visitors and families who want to reduce travel time and enjoy a comfortable, efficient way to reach remote safari destinations.
How do I book a fly-in safari to a game lodge?
Bookings are usually made through the lodge itself or through an aviation charter provider. Guests provide travel dates, group size, and destination preferences, and arrangements are made for both accommodation and air transfer where required.
Are fly-in safari destinations safe?
Yes. Fly-in safari operations in South Africa are conducted by licensed pilots and regulated operators under strict aviation safety standards. Game lodges also follow safety protocols for guest accommodation, wildlife viewing, and on-site activities.
Why choose a lodge with a runway instead of a traditional safari lodge?
Lodges with runways offer unmatched convenience, privacy, and exclusivity. Guests can land directly at their destination, avoid long driving times, and experience a seamless connection between air travel and the safari environment.
What makes fly-in safari destinations unique in South Africa?
Fly-in safari destinations combine aviation and wildlife experiences, allowing travellers to see South Africa’s landscapes from the air before landing directly in remote wilderness areas. This creates a premium, time-efficient, and visually spectacular safari experience unlike traditional travel methods.
Can I combine multiple fly-in safari destinations in one trip?
Yes. Many travellers combine multiple lodges and reserves into one itinerary using light aircraft or helicopter transfers. This allows guests to experience different ecosystems, wildlife regions, and luxury lodges within a single safari journey.
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