Madikwe Game Reserve: Malaria-Free Safari Luxury in South Africa
Discover the allure of Madikwe Game Reserve, a premier malaria-free safari destination in South Africa. Renowned for its thriving wild dog populations and exceptional Big Five sightings, Madikwe offers an unforgettable safari experience for families, couples, and wildlife enthusiasts alike
Madikwe Game Reserve is one of the best malaria-free game reserves in South Africa. It lies north-west of Johannesburg in the wide open plains of bushveld, close to the Botswana border. It offers quality game-viewing, excellent safari lodges, as well as a true African ambience.
Madikwe Game Reserve: Conservation
The malaria free Madikwe Reserve is one of the largest game reserves in South Africa at 75,000ha. Plus it boasts a healthy wildlife population with plenty of the Big Five (elephant, lion, leopard, rhino and buffalo). You may also be lucky enough to see packs of wild dog on a Madikwe safari, a rare and privileged sighting. Given its open savanna terrain, Madikwe offers plenty of plains game including sable, gemsbok, springbok and giraffe, even cheetah. Plus over 360 recorded bird species.
But Madikwe is not only about luxury and wildlife; it's also a testament to successful conservation and community upliftment. The reserve was established as a joint venture between the government, private sector, and local communities, to restore the land and provide economic benefits through eco-tourism.
Highlighting Madikwe Lodges
Whether you are a honeymoon couple, or a family, there are plenty of Madikwe lodges to suit all tastes. Some are offered as ‘Safari Houses’ on an exclusive use basis. This is ideal for a group of friends or a larger family party.
Madikwe Safari Lodge: three distinct camps—Lelapa (family-friendly), Kopano (intimate), and Dithaba (exclusive-use)—each providing luxury and personalized service.- Jamala Madikwe: An ultra-luxurious lodge known for its exceptional service, gourmet dining, and prime location for game viewing.
- Madikwe Hills - luxury at its best, ideal for romantic getways. But Little Madikwe is perfect for a multi-gen family stay.
See more great lodge options below:
Getting to Madikwe Game Reserve:
Madikwe is not the most accessible of game reserves. As it is a 4+ hour drive from Johannesburg. But you can opt to fly-in and out instead. Or why not combine a Madikwe safari with the Marakele National Park in the same broad area.
