Facilities - About Us



In the north east corner of the Free State Province in South Africa lies a private little gem called Mbumanzi Game and Lion Farm. The initial appeal of this place is its remoteness. Out here one is in the true heartland of South Africa. Its big, open country with the peace and tranquillity you would expect to find when venturing far enough away from the bustle of the cities and towns. The panoramic views seem to stretch on forever and even with the brown winter grass still very prolific the views over the open prairie and rolling hills are spectacular. It is here where the three provinces of Mpumalanga, Free State and KwaZulu-Natal merge.

Mbumanzi is different because it is not the normal ‘run-of-the-mill’ game farm with the usual wildlife wandering around. There certainly is a wide variety of buck, antelope, zebra and the likes but what makes this establishment standout from many other game farms is the well-established breeding program that has been implemented here. Sure, there are many places with wildlife breeding programs but it is the breeding of various species of predators, particularly wild cats that Mbumanzi specialises in.

hosts, Ted, Kiewiet, Malcolm and Miecke have an enthusiasm with this on-going project that is apparent from the moment you arrive. This enthusiasm coupled with their passion and collective knowledge, as well as the other activities they run at the establishment, is the fundamental factor that makes this breeding program very successful. They are quick to share their knowledge of the animals and although we had a lot of questions they were all answered with informative responses.

The ultimate highlight for any visitor to the farm has to be the interactive activities, particularly with the variety of cats currently at various stages in the breeding process. Even though I have lived my whole life in Southern Africa I have personally never been this ‘up close and personal’ with such animals and one comes away with a feeling of having experienced something rather unique. Entering some of the enclosures you are very aware of the fact that these are wild animals but Kiewiet’s intimate knowledge of the cats ensured we were never in any danger. She seemed to read their behaviour particularly well and if, at any time, the animals started looking agitated or stressed she would immediately guide us as to how we should respond. We were however amongst the cats long enough to get some really good photos.

A firm favourite with the ladies was the bottle-feeding of the 5 lion cubs currently in residence. It was surreal but one couldn’t help reflecting on the fact that these cute little bundles of fur would one day become feared hunters and clinical killers. My personal favourites though were the Caracals, known locally as the Rooikat. These beautiful felines are rather shy so it was difficult to get some decent photos of them as they are, like most wild cats, nocturnal animals and seemed loathe to come out of their little huts during the day light. When they did there was a lot of hissing and spitting but they were in no way threatening.

Other activities include game drives, horse riding, birdwatching and fishing. You can even have a go at hand feeding corn to the local ostrich. This is another experience which most people never get to do as these enormous birds are usually only seen in the wild. In the near future Mbumanzi are also looking at introducing helicopter flights for those who are little more adventurous.


On occasions, under the auspices of Gamecapcor, Mbumanzi also hold auctions. They sell a variety of game but I believe it is mostly antelope and buck (deer) that goes under the hammer. From time to time more exotic breeds come up for sale.

Recently Miecke has started a small coffee shop on the premises and after, or during, all the activities you can sit down and enjoy a nice beverage while you reflect on the experiences you enjoyed during your stay. I would personally recommend the delicious homemade cheese cake