Madikwe Game Reserve
Madikwe Game Reserve offers exceptional game viewing and a luxury African safari experience that is both exclusive and unforgettable.
Everything you need to know
After years of neglected farming, the barren soil of Madikwe was transformed into a premier game reserve, founded in 1991 to revitalize the land and uplift surrounding communities. Now the fifth largest game reserve in South Africa, Madikwe is a private reserve renowned for its abundant wildlife and exclusive safari experience. With no self-drive access and strict regulations at lodges to prevent overcrowded sightings, guests enjoy a serene and intimate game viewing experience.
Where is the Park located?
Located in the north-west of South Africa along the Botswana border, Madikwe Game Reserve is a 4.5-hour drive from Johannesburg. While self-driving is an option, vehicles must be suitable for the park’s dirt roads, and arrival times should be coordinated with lodges. For convenience, a daily one-hour light aircraft flight offers easy access and connects with other South African parks like Tswalu and Sabi Sands.
Terrain
Madikwe Game Reserve features expansive grasslands and bushveld, interspersed with rocky outcrops and acacia thickets. The distinctive red Kalahari sand enhances the visual appeal of the reserve, with its rich hues contrasting beautifully against the diverse wildlife.
Wildlife
Madikwe is renowned as a Big Five destination, offering excellent opportunities to see elephants, buffalo, rhinos, and various antelope species. Cheetahs, reintroduced in recent years, are also frequently spotted. The reserve is famous for its large packs of wild dogs, making it one of the best places to see these endangered predators. Although leopards are present, sightings are less common. Madikwe’s unique location also allows for occasional sightings of rarer desert-adapted animals like the aardvark.
Top Experiences
Madikwe, a malaria-free area, is ideal for open-air sleeping. Lodges such as Morukuru and Jaci’s offer guests the chance to sleep under the stars in the winter months. The reserve boasts exceptional 5-star lodges, providing high-quality game viewing and outstanding service.
Best Time to Visit
Madikwe is a year-round destination, but the winter months (May–September) are often the best for safaris. Cooler mornings and sparse vegetation make wildlife spotting easier. While summer (November–March) brings rain, the closed reserve ensures good animal sightings throughout the year.
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Morukuru Family
Morukuru Family in Madikwe Game Reserve offers exclusive-use luxury safari homes, providing a private and personalized wildlife experience. Located in the malaria-free Madikwe Game Reserve, the accommodations feature modern comforts, including private pools, dedicated staff, and tailored activities for guests of all ages. Morukuru Family is ideal for families and groups seeking an intimate and immersive safari adventure, with expert guides and the chance to explore diverse wildlife, including the Big Five.
