Madikwe Travel Guide

Madikwe Travel Guide

The Reserve is the fourth largest in South Africa and is home to 66 large mammal species including the "Big 5" as well as cheetah and wild dog, for birders there is& approximately 300 resident and migrant bird species on show. The Madikwe Game Reserve, situated close to the Botswana border, just under four hours' drive either both Johannesburg and Pretoria, is now one of South Africa's prime safari destinations.

The Madikwe is located in an area of South Africa that is 100% free from malaria making this one of the top safari destinations for families or those who are concerned about contracting the disease. Our Madikwe travel guide on Uyaphi.com is all about featuring what in our humble opinion is one of the best safari experiences in Southern Africa.

The drive to the reserve is without question one of the more scenic that South Africa has to offer passing bushveld, koppies and villages along the way. There is of course also a fly-in option should driving not be your thing, there are two airstrips in the Madikwe, and both are serviced by light aircraft out of Johannesburg.

Madikwe Game Reserve

  • Madikwe Lodges

    Madikwe offers up some of the finest lodges found in South Africa; this is our selection of what we at Uyaphi.com know to be the very best. Whether you are looking a pure wildlife experience, something romantic or those looking for a safe African safari with the kids, we have all your bases covered.

  • Madikwe Safaris

    When planning a safari to South Africa, we often find that the Madikwe Game Reserve is more often than not even on the list of "to visit" destinations. This is something that we would like to change, we have a catchphrase here at Uyaphi.com, and it is "Madikwe is awesome."

  • Madikwe Photo Galleries

    Over the past years, we have had the absolute pleasure and privilege of visiting the Madikwe many many times. While staying at most of the safaris lodges within the reserve and taking part in numerous game drives, we have had the pleasure of witnessing spectacular wildlife.

  • Madikwe Lodges Visited

    Madikwe lodges and camps visited by the team at Uyaphi.com showcasing our photographs and thoughts (reviews) on each establishment from our perspective. More of a personal Madikwe travel guide with our artistic flair shining through with cameras in hand.

  • Madikwe Mammal List

    The Madikwe hosts 66 mammal species including the "Big 7" (elephant, lion, leopard, rhino, buffalo, cheetah and wild dog). The reserve offers the rare opportunity to spot both Spotted and Brown Hyenas within the same habitat as well as 23 carnivore species and an amazing 26 species of snake.

  • Madikwe Bird List

    The Madikwe is an ornithologists dream, with over 350 species of birds recorded. What makes this area different in terms of birding is that the reserve is located in a transition zone on the edge of the Kalahari basin, one gets a mash-up of Highveld, Bushveld and Desert species.

  • Madikwe Information

    Madikwe Information

    Size & Location: 750km² ,360 km from Johannesburg, in the North West Province
    When to visit the park: Drier months (May - September) are best for game-viewing
    Climate: Hot, humid (31°C) during summer rainy season and cold, freezing winters
    Rainfall: approx. 500mm per annum
    Altitude: 950m - 1328m above sea level

  • Madikwe is Malaria Free

    Madikwe is Malaria Free

    Yes, it is official, those pesky Malaria mosquitoes are not found anywhere near the Madikwe Reserve. Making this the perfect "Big 7" safari experience for those who have children of any age, those who are pregnant as well as those who just do not want to take the chance. The Madikwe is Malaria free but not mosquito free; all lodges offer repellent though.

  • Best Time to Visit

    Best Time to Visit Madikwe

    The Madikwe Reserve offers excellent year-round safari experiences with summer days being hot and winter evenings being cold. The dry winter months are generally best for birders and wildlife sightings, but on saying that you will not be disappointed by a summer safari here. No matter what season you choose to visit, the Madikwe will surprise you with her beauty.

  • Madikwe Transfer Options

    Madikwe Transfer Options

    Daily air and road transfers operate between Johannesburg and the reserve, depending on your budget or interests we will advise on the best options. The fly-in option is the most popular as it adds 3 hours to your safari, the flight itself is in the region of 60 minutes and lands at the main Madikwe tarred runway where a transfer to your private lodge is waiting.

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Popular Madikwe Lodges
Rhulani Safari Lodge
From the moment you arrive at Rhulani Safari Lodge, your safari adventure begins with friendly staff, comfortable suites and fantastic wildlife sighting from the lodge or on a game drive. Peace and tranquillity is part and parcel of life here deep in the African bushveld surrounding by wildlife.
Madikwe Hills Game Lodge
Madikwe Hills Private Game Lodge is perfectly positioned within the centre of Madikwe, this is a huge game drive advantage when staying here. Accommodation is up there with the most exclusive and luxurious lodge in the Reserve, Madikwe Hills offers it all and more.
Madikwe Safari Lodge
With its earthy plastered walls, Madikwe Safari Lodge appears to grow out of the rust-red African setting like a gigantic termite mound, offering Southern African cuisine is complimented and world-class local South African wines. Stunning luxury awaits all that visit.
Molori Safari Lodge
Catering to the well-heeled, discerning traveller looking for complete seclusion, relaxation along with an authentic link to their local surrounds, Molori Safari Lodge is definitely not your average safari lodge in South Africa or the Madikwe Reserve.
Jaci's Safari Lodge
Jaci's Safari Lodge blends into its surrounds, encompassing a magnificent main area built around an ancient termite mound, only 10 tented Suites, all built with shaggy thatched roofs, canvas walls & large windows.
Buffalo Ridge Safari Lodge
Buffalo Ridge Safari Lodge is the first wholly owned, community-based Safari Lodge in South Africa, the concept is unique as the community owns the development, with substantial benefits going back to the community. All in the Madikwe Game Reserve.
Mateya Safari Lodge
Mateya Safari Lodge, perfectly located in the breathtaking Malaria free Madikwe, guarantees to possibly be amongst the best game lodges available today and without question one of the most outstanding lodges in Southern Africa.