Madikwe Lodges
The Madikwe Game Reserve offers some of the finest safari lodges in South Africa; this is our portfolio of four- and five-star luxury lodges suitable for single travellers, honeymooners, and children in tow.
Accommodation options range from absolute luxury to small intimate tented safari camps.
If you are looking for a pure wildlife experience, a photographic safari, something romantic, or a family-friendly safari option, look no further.
Madikwe Safaris
It's a malaria-free game reserve that covers an area of over 75,000 acres, making it the perfect place to go on safari. The reserve is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including lion, elephant, leopard, rhinos and buffalo (the "Big Five)", as well as brown and spotted hyena, cheetah and African wild dog, to mention a few.
There are a number of safari lodges located in the Madikwe Game Reserve, all of which offer excellent accommodation and facilities. The lodges also offer a range of safari activities, from game drives to bush walks to star beds.
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.
Here, we showcase our own photographic skills. If we can capture good/okay wildlife photographs, imagine what you can capture :)
Madikwe Lodges Visited
Lodges and camps in the game reserve 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 game reserve hosts 66 mammal species, including the "Big 7" (elephant, lion, leopard, rhino, buffalo, cheetah and wild dog).
The game 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 game reserve and surrounding area is an ornithologist's 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
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 levelMadikwe 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
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 in saying that, you will not be disappointed by a summer safari here.
No matter what season you choose to visit, the Madikwe Game Reserve will surprise you with its beauty.
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.
One of the best north-west parks in South Africa awaits.
5 best lodges in Madikwe Game Reserve
Planning a safari to Madikwe Game Reserve and looking for the best lodges to stay at? Here are five lodges that stand out for their exceptional safari experiences and luxury accommodations. Whether you're seeking a family-friendly getaway or a romantic escape, these lodges offer something unique for every traveler.
Each of these lodges offers a unique blend of luxury, comfort, and adventure, ensuring an unforgettable safari experience. Whether you're seeking thrilling game drives, relaxing spa treatments, or family-friendly activities, these top lodges in Madikwe Game Reserve cater to every traveler's needs and preferences.
Kids On Safari In The Madikwe, South Africa
Kids In The Madikwe, a game reserve that offers up some of the best Big 5 sightings, a malaria-free area and a reserve that hosts some of the best family and child-friendly establishments in Southern Africa.
This is the Madikwe Game Reserve.
Impodimo Review
If you're looking for an unpretentious good quality accommodation establishment, look no further than Impodimo in The Madikwe. Coming in at the perfect price, offering all the creature comforts as well as wildlife activities could easily be associated with a property 3x the price.
One will certainly not be disappointed.
Jamala Review
A review of one of our favourite lodges not only in the Madikwe Game Reserve but the whole of South Africa.
Why and how (well you will have to read for more thoughts and opinions), but in a nutshell - magnificent wildlife, great food, great rooms and most importantly fantastic service.
Mateya Review
One of those lodges that just blew us away. We knew that we were going somewhere special but just did not realise how extraordinary the experience would be.
Reflecting that old-world wildlife and birdlife experience - it is indeed more old school than new school regarding decor and feels.