Madikwe Safari Lodge, Madikwe Game Reserve - Explore & Book

"Bordering Botswana and within easy reach of Jo'burg, Madikwe is one of South Africa’s largest game reserves and the best non-malarial safari area in Africa. Of its 30+lodges, Madikwe Safari Lodge is one of our favourites. Perched on a hillside, it's really a collection of 3 separate camps: Lelapa, with just 12 suites, is exceptionally good for families, while Dithaba and Kopano, with 4 suites apiece and a private 3-bedroom villa at the latter, are more intimate and best suited to couples and small groups. Whichever you choose, they're a cut above the rustic, giving stylish sanctuary from the beasts beyond. You're guaranteed a private plunge pool and curved stone walls that lead you out into open-plan sitting-dining areas with big squishy sofas you just want to flop on. Flashes of bright-yellow weaver birds swoop across the wooden decking by day and roaring log fires keep you toasty at night. A spoiling welcoming committee gave us the hot towel and refreshing drinks routine, but we felt staff had a genuine desire to give us the most wonderful wild experience, too. It's a polished affair with great food and very knowledgeable guides, and this is balanced with a homely vibe we were loath to leave. Magical, with a great ‘sense of place’ and spirit of adventure, we felt it deserved to be on anyone's bucket list. Highs Malaria-free reserve, home to the famous ‘Big Five’, a straighforward 4-5hr drive from Jo’burg airport and less crowded than Kruger Beautifully designed, well-run luxury camps with huge rooms, each with a private plunge pool Lelapa is one of the best family-friendly safari camps in Africa, with no age limit and lots of fun activities to keep youngsters busy Their tranquil spa offers a range of massages and body treatments using local, ethical products The lodge now hosts Madikwe Wildlife Foundation in their staff village, sponsoring their accommodation to support their vital work protecting endangered species, especially rhinos. Lows Not cheap, but when you consider what's included, the stunning setting and how well you're looked after, we thought it was good value and well worth it Rooms have thatched roofs and gaps underneath doorways so you may encounter insect life at night; mosquito nets are provided on request There can be up to 8 people sharing a safari vehicle, but we really enjoyed meeting other guests When the weather closes in, internal flights can get cancelled at short notice but you don't save a massive amount of time by flying here, so we'd recommend driving anyway - hire a 4x4, or transfers can be arranged" - Aidan Forestier-Walker