Mattanu Private Game Reserve Fly-in safaris

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.

Another flying safari group en-route to the Kalahari

A Runway Like No Other

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.

One of the first fly-in groups from the Eastern Cape

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

1. Seamless Arrival: Landing right at the lodge makes your journey part of the adventure.

2. Glider Paradise: Ideal conditions and location for soaring pilots.

3. Luxury Meets Wild: Upscale accommodation meets authentic safari experiences.

4. Flexible for All Flyers: Whether you fly a small plane, glider, or helicopter, Mattanu welcomes you.

5. Event Potential: Great for pilot club weekends, group fly-ins, or special aviation-focused safari packages.