South Africa
Madikwe Game Reserve Accommodation
Madikwe Game Reserve is one of South Africa's largest game reserves and one of its best-kept secrets. Located in the North West Province, close to the Botswana border, Madikwe was established in 1991 as part of an ambitious conservation project that involved one of the largest game translocation exercises in history. Today, the reserve is home to the Big Five and over 66 large mammal species, including one of the best populations of wild dogs in South Africa. Madikwe is a malaria-free area, making it an excellent choice for families with young children. The reserve operates on a concession model, with a selection of luxury lodges providing all-inclusive safari experiences. Being only a four-hour drive from Johannesburg, or a short flight, Madikwe is easily accessible for a short safari break.
Accommodation in Madikwe Game Reserve
Motswiri Private Safari Lodge
Nestled beneath the towering leadwood trees of Madikwe Game Reserve, Motswiri Private Safari Lodge offers an intimate and sophisticated retreat that immerses you in the untamed beauty of Africa. With breathtaking waterhole views, endless horizons, and an exclusive bush experience, this hidden gem blends elegant comfort with the thrill of the wild. Whether you seek an adventure-filled safari or tranquil moments surrounded by nature’s finest, your journey begins here. Motswiri Private Safari Lodge is a boutique retreat that offers both seclusion and sophistication in the heart of the Madikwe wilderness. With just a handful of private suites and an exclusive-use family villa, the lodge promises personalised service, elegant interiors, and breathtaking views over a busy waterhole. Days are spent tracking the Big Five and the varied other wildlife of Madikwe on guided game drives, relaxing by the pool with a view, or indulging in gourmet meals served beneath the stars. Every space at Motswiri Private Safari Lodge has been thoughtfully designed to blend into the natural landscape while offering modern comforts and quiet luxury.
Rhulani Safari Lodge
Rhulani Safari Lodge, nestled in the malaria-free Madikwe Game Reserve, offers an unparalleled African safari experience. Meaning "relax," Rhulani truly lives up to its name, providing an oasis of calm where guests can unwind and reconnect with nature. The lodge seamlessly blends luxury accommodation with a deep commitment to sustainability, ensuring a stay that is both indulgent and responsible. From the moment of arrival, guests are enveloped in an authentic African welcome. The lodge's design transforms the ordinary into the extraordinary, featuring spacious luxury private chalets, premium chalets, and family suites, each boasting total privacy and a plunge pool. Rhulani invites guests to celebrate nature and life, offering a serene and harmonious environment. Beyond luxurious comfort, Rhulani Safari Lodge is dedicated to conservation and community. Recognized with a Travelife Gold certification, the lodge adheres to rigorous sustainability standards, reflecting its commitment to environmental protection, fair labor practices, and animal welfare. Guests can immerse themselves in the "Rhulani Experience," embarking on a journey of discovery that nourishes the soul and lifts the spirit.
Buffalo Ridge Safari Lodge
Buffalo Ridge Safari Lodge is a unique community-owned safari lodge located in the malaria-free Madikwe Game Reserve in South Africa. It offers breathtaking views of the reserve from its prime position along the Tweedepoort Ridge. This eco-tourism partnership provides a special lodge and safari experience while benefiting the local Balete community. The lodge is nestled in a transitional region between lowveld bushveld and Kalahari thornveld, resulting in an incredible diversity of species, including the Big Five and approximately 300 bird species. Guests can enjoy open-vehicle game drives with well-trained guides, birding, and stargazing. Buffalo Ridge Safari Lodge stands out as the first wholly-owned and community-based safari lodge in South Africa, reflecting a story of endurance, joy, and triumph for the Balete people. It offers a truly authentic and impactful safari experience.
Impodimo Game Lodge
Impodimo Game Lodge, a true gift from God, is nestled on a rocky ridge offering breathtaking views of the magnificent 75,000-hectare Madikwe Game Reserve in South Africa. This malaria-free reserve, bordering Botswana, is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts, boasting the Big 5, the beautiful Painted Wolf (African Wild Dogs), Cheetah, Brown and Spotted Hyena, and a diverse array of other large mammals and birdlife. The lodge provides an unforgettable safari experience for adventurous travelers. Impodimo offers luxurious accommodation carved from the hillside. Its eight glass-fronted luxury chalets and one Deluxe Suite are strategically positioned along a natural spring, each providing striking views of the African bush. Guests can immerse themselves in thrilling game drives, bushwalks, and tracking experiences, or simply relax in the underground hide for unique wildlife viewing opportunities. The lodge also caters to families with children, ensuring a memorable safari for all ages. Beyond the exhilarating wildlife encounters, Impodimo Game Lodge provides exceptional dining experiences and rejuvenating massage treatments. The lodge is deeply committed to environmental conservation, actively involving itself in initiatives that help protect and preserve the natural beauty of the Madikwe Game Reserve. Impodimo invites you to embark on an wild adventure, where passion for travel, wildlife, and new cultures converge to create an unparalleled African safari.
Madikwe Hills Private Game Lodge
Madikwe Hills Private Game Lodge is a luxurious safari lodge nestled in the heart of the Madikwe Game Reserve. It offers a captivating blend of intrigue and natural beauty. The lodge features 10 well-appointed, glass-fronted suites, ensuring privacy and stunning views. For families or larger groups, the exclusive two-bedroom Little Madikwe villa provides a private safari experience. The lodge's central area, with its elegant lounge, bar, and dining facilities, overlooks a bustling waterhole, providing continuous wildlife spectacle. Accommodating a total of 24 guests, Madikwe Hills is scattered across a hillside, seamlessly blending into the natural landscape with its camouflaged design among Tamboti trees. Wooden walkways connect the secluded suites to the main lodge, which boasts a vaulted thatch ceiling supported by majestic leadwood tree trunks, enhancing the authentic African ambiance. Children above 10 are welcome in the main lodge, while Little Madikwe caters to families with children of all ages, making it a versatile destination for various travelers. Madikwe Hills offers a complete safari adventure in a malaria-free big five reserve, providing guests with an unforgettable South African wildlife experience. The lodge focuses on creating an immersive and peaceful wilderness retreat, allowing guests to explore the Madikwe Game Reserve at their own pace.
Tuningi Safari Lodge
Tuningi Safari Lodge, nestled in the malaria-free Madikwe Game Reserve, offers an unforgettable luxury safari experience. Accommodating only 16 guests in spacious Luxury and Family Suites, the lodge provides an intimate and exclusive retreat. Each suite boasts breathtaking views from a private deck with a splash pool, while the main lodge features a comfortable lounge, elegant dining room, and an impressive rim-flow pool overlooking an active watering hole. The dedicated and passionate staff ensure a welcoming atmosphere, making guests feel right at home and creating exceptional memories. The lodge is perfectly situated in a transition region between the Kalahari thornveld and Lowveld bushveld, resulting in a rich diversity of flora and fauna, including the "Big 5," cheetah, and the endangered wild dog. Guests can immerse themselves in the African wilderness through thrilling morning and afternoon game drives, close-up animal viewing from the underground hide, and guided birdwatching excursions. Tuningi Safari Lodge is not just a place to stay, but a destination to connect with nature and create lasting safari adventures. The Family Suites are a true highlight, offering expansive, luxurious accommodations with two en-suite double bedrooms, a dining area, kitchenette, living room, and a large timber deck. These suites are designed for comfort and convenience, providing an ideal setting for families to enjoy the safari experience together without compromising on style or amenities. Tuningi Safari Lodge promises a truly outstanding and personalized safari for all its guests.
aha Thakadu River Camp
Set within a riverine canopy surrounded by an impressive diversity of fauna and flora, aha Thakadu River Camp offers guests beautifully appointed, 4-star tented suites. Besides enjoying all the comforts of modern living in the heart of the untamed bushveld, our highly skilled rangers share their extended knowledge with guests, so they may gain an in-depth understanding of the area to add to their already exciting getaway experience. The main camp at aha Thakadu River Camp is located between the Marico River and a small tributary of the Marico. The Lodge has a welcoming open-plan lounge, dining area and reception as an African bushveld oasis that offers exciting game drives as a compliment. The attractive bar and pool area are also ideal for relaxation, and the entire Lodge welcomes families. The Lodge has been carefully constructed to blend into its surroundings, with the use of wood and thatched roofs. A traditional lapa falls within a glade of natural riverine forest to offer panoramic views. Besides lush views of the gully and river to the north, guests are delighted by our staff’s warm hospitality and personal care.
The Bush House
The Bush House offers an authentic and intimate safari experience, nestled in the heart of the malaria-free Madikwe Game Reserve. This owner-run lodge provides a true home-away-from-home atmosphere, where personalized service and warm hospitality are paramount. Guests can immerse themselves in the African wilderness, enjoying exceptional wildlife viewing opportunities and the tranquility of the bushveld. Designed with comfort and relaxation in mind, The Bush House features elegantly appointed suites that blend seamlessly with the natural surroundings. Each suite offers a private sanctuary with stunning views, allowing you to unwind in harmony with nature. Indulge in delicious home-cooked meals, prepared with fresh, local ingredients, and share your safari stories under a canopy of stars.
Madikwe Safari Lodge - Lelapa Lodge
Lelapa Lodge at Madikwe Safari Lodge offers a warm and inviting atmosphere for families and couples alike. With its open guest areas, friendly staff, and luxurious yet laid-back vibe, guests are sure to feel right at home. The lodge is located in the malaria-free Madikwe Game Reserve, providing an ideal setting for an unforgettable safari adventure. Guests can enjoy stunning views of the reserve from their private decks, complete with outdoor showers and plunge pools. Lelapa, meaning "family" in Setswana, truly embodies its name by offering exceptional experiences for all ages. Lelapa Lodge is designed to cater to the unique needs of families. Four of the suites are specifically tailored for those with young children, featuring kids' rooms with bunkbeds, special amenities, and a variety of toys, games, and books. This allows parents to enjoy some well-deserved alone time while their children are entertained. Beyond the private accommodations, the lodge boasts a larger guest pool overlooking a watering hole, offering opportunities for communal relaxation and wildlife viewing. The attentive hospitality ensures a stress-free and comfortable stay, with exciting discoveries of the game reserve right on your doorstep. The lodge provides an all-inclusive safari experience with two daily game drives led by FGASA-accredited guides and trackers. Beyond the thrilling wildlife encounters, guests can partake in specialized activities such as bush walks, stargazing, and wildlife lectures. The culinary experience is equally impressive, with bush breakfasts/dinners and picnic lunches adding to the adventure. With a focus on creating lasting family memories, Lelapa Lodge combines luxury, comfort, and authentic safari experiences in the heart of the Madikwe Game Reserve.
Madikwe Safari Lodge - Kopano Lodge
Tucked away in the savannah wilderness, Kopano Lodge at Madikwe Safari Lodge offers a personal and intimate escape within the renowned Madikwe Game Reserve. Meaning "small gathering" in Setswana, Kopano provides a cozy environment well off the beaten path, perfect for those seeking to disconnect from the urban jungle. Each of the four luxury suites ensures perfect privacy and a personal experience, allowing guests to create lasting memories amidst the majestic natural surroundings. Guests can enjoy their own private space while also having opportunities to socialize in the main camp's living areas. Kopano offers a true getaway, combining luxurious comfort with an authentic safari adventure. From the comfort and privacy of their suite's raised viewing deck, guests can survey the vast plains of the Madikwe Game Reserve, indulge in an outdoor spa treatment, or enjoy a "deckchair safari" looking out for zebra, giraffe, elephant, and various buck. For those seeking more social interaction, the main camp's living spaces include a dining area, fireplace lounge with library, generously furnished deck, and a boma raised above the bush. Kopano guests also have access to Lelapa camp’s communal pool, offering even more opportunities for wildlife observation. Your stay at Kopano includes two daily game drives led by FGASA-accredited field guides and trackers, along with refreshments and snacks. Specialized activities such as bush walks, stargazing, wildlife lectures, bush breakfasts/dinners, and picnic lunches are also included, providing a comprehensive and immersive safari experience. Kopano promises an exclusive game reserve getaway where luxury, privacy, and authentic wildlife encounters converge.
Madikwe Safari Lodge - Dithaba Lodge
Nestled in the heart of the Madikwe Game Reserve, Dithaba Lodge offers an exclusive and intimate safari experience. Perched on a towering rock kopje, the lodge provides breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding wilderness, inviting guests to immerse themselves in the untamed beauty of Africa. With a focus on understated luxury and personalized service, Dithaba Lodge is an ideal retreat for families or small groups seeking a private and unforgettable safari adventure. The lodge's unique design, inspired by its natural surroundings, seamlessly blends comfort with an authentic bush experience, promising tranquility and unparalleled wildlife encounters. Each moment at Dithaba, from sunrise game drives to starlit dinners, is crafted to create lasting memories. At Dithaba Lodge, the spirit of the African bush comes alive. Guests can expect thrilling game drives led by expert rangers, offering exceptional opportunities to witness the Big Five and a diverse array of wildlife in their natural habitat. Beyond the exhilarating safaris, the lodge provides a haven of relaxation, where guests can unwind by the infinity pool, indulge in gourmet cuisine, and connect with the serene environment. The personalized attention and warm hospitality ensure a tailor-made experience, making every stay at Dithaba Lodge a true celebration of nature and luxury. Discover a place where adventure meets tranquility, and the magic of Africa captivates your soul.
Jamala Madikwe
Jamala Madikwe, Royal Safari Lodge, offers an intimate and luxurious bush experience in the pristine, malaria-free Madikwe Game Reserve. This owner-managed and run lodge prides itself on personal service and meticulous attention to detail, blending colonial charm with African eccentricity. Guests can expect an unparalleled safari adventure in a 75,000-hectare wilderness. Dine under the vast African sky, indulging in modern gastronomic delights prepared by Head Chef Jacques Sansom and award-winning General Manager and Executive Chef Nico Verster. Jamala Madikwe has been recognized for its exceptional safari cuisine, promising a truly memorable dining experience. The lodge recently underwent a significant rebuild of its main lodge and a makeover of its villa lounges, ensuring a continued blend of luxury and wildlife wonder for an unforgettable stay.
Tau Game Lodge
Tau Game Lodge offers a luxurious safari experience in the malaria-free Madikwe Game Reserve, one of South Africa's largest and most biodiverse reserves. Guests can immerse themselves in an authentic safari vacation, encountering the Big Five and a myriad of other wildlife. The lodge provides an ideal blend of thrilling wildlife encounters and luxurious private facilities, ensuring a memorable and comfortable stay amidst the wilderness. Its prime location in the North West Province allows for exceptional game viewing and bird-watching safaris. Accommodation options range from standard and deluxe chalets to family units and suites, all designed to provide comfort and an intimate connection with nature. The lodge is not only a destination for wildlife enthusiasts but also caters to various events with its convention center and picturesque wedding venue. Guests can unwind at the spa, enjoy refreshing dips in the swimming pools, and browse for souvenirs at the curio shop. The dedicated children's program ensures that even the youngest guests have an engaging and educational safari adventure. Tau Game Lodge is committed to providing a holistic safari experience, combining luxury, adventure, and relaxation. The lodge also actively participates in community projects and conservation efforts within the Madikwe Game Reserve, inviting guests to be part of a meaningful journey that extends beyond traditional tourism. With its exceptional service, diverse wildlife, and stunning natural surroundings, Tau Game Lodge promises an unforgettable African safari.