Here are 4 Top Notch Safari Lodges in Madikwe Game Reserve
Madikwe Game Reserve is one of South Africa’s largest, at 75 000 hectares. It is located in the northern part of the country, bordering Botswana, surrounded by the southern end of the Kalahari Desert. It is perhaps known best as a fantastic malaria-free destination for safari goers in South Africa, which makes it a great option families with young children, but it should not be underestimated as an exquisite and rewarding game reserve in its own right.
It is the living proof of successful conservation projects, rehabilitated land, and animal translocation, which makes it a safe haven for hundreds of species and gives it incredible game viewing value. In addition to the Big 5, Madikwe is a special home to numerous packs of endangered African wild dog, as well as 4 cheetahs, while there are over 300 species of birds and over 60 mammal species. Sprawled on the vast grassy plains, and nestled between rocky outcrops, or up on a hill, Madikwe has an impressive selection of safari lodges, and recently our Product Manager, Michelle, visited four of them. Read all about her 4 Top Notch Safari Lodges in Madikwe Game Reserve…
1. Sanctuary Makanyane Safari Lodge
The most outstanding aspect of Makanyane has to be the 8 glass-encased suites. The luxury rooms are situated among a tangle of trees, so guests can continuously enjoy the natural surroundings. Each is artfully designed from local wood, stone, and thatch to blend into bush, while all are secluded, have air-conditioning, private viewing across the Madikwe bush, and have bathrooms that can be opened to the outside.
There is a gorgeous infinity pool, a gym and a beauty treatment centre, all creating a magical safari getaway. For the more adventurous, there is a sleep out under the stars! On a raised hide and second floor sleeping deck, guests can sleep under the stars of the African sky. Dining at Sanctuary Makanyane is a sumptuous affair with exceptional food and award winning wines.
The Royal Madikwe is a luxury safari lodge with views to compete with the best in Madikwe. This sublime lodge is all about environmental sustainability, while enhancing the luxurious elements of the lodge and guest accommodation. In addition to its close relationship with the surrounding nature, The Royal Madikwe contributes 20% of all profits to community projects, ensuring that by bringing visitors to the area, they are directly re-investing in the welfare and success of the local community.
The accommodation at The Royal Madikwe is nothing less than the name suggests – fit for safari royalty! There is a Luxury Double Suite, Luxury Twin Suite, Honeymoon Suite, The Emperor Suite, and The Royal Villa. Each of the accommodation types is superbly appointed, while every unit offers something unique and special. Families are most welcome and super comfortably accommodated in the exclusive Royal Villa.
3. Madikwe Hills Private Game Lodge
This 24-bed lodge is situated at the edge of the Marico River, in the middle of the 75,000-hectare Madikwe Game Reserve. Its location is all in the name: Madikwe Hills. It is positioned most beautifully between natural rock and among old tamboti trees, offering exceptional views from the superb glass-fronted luxury suites.
The 10 supreme suites each boast a private viewing deck, plunge pool, in a setting like no other. Guests at Madikwe Hills might be tempted to stay in their ultra-spacious suites and just watch the ambling giraffe, elephant, or buffalo pass right by their rooms. The surrounding landscape is rolling grassland, and gentle rises on the horizon, which is all explored during the morning and afternoon game drives.
This African-chic Madikwe lodge is all about the authenticity of safari. It is luxurious and spacious, and full of the rich textures and natural colours of the bush. Wooden decking, thatched roofs, stone structures, and iconically African décor make up the luxury rooms – 4 double suites and 2 family units – which accommodate only 16 guests in total.
Tuningi Safari Lodge can be specially made up for families, small groups, or VIPs in search of utter privacy. All rooms have outdoor rock showers and private wrap-around wooden decks, and blending interiors with the bush through the use of retractable doors and windows.
