Best Safari Lodges in Madikwe

Madikwe Game Reserve is a majestic wildlife sanctuary, true to its name, which means ‘Africa in its majesty'. This malaria-free haven is a prime safari destination, boasting rich biodiversity and diverse wildlife encounters. The reserve offers unique game viewing opportunities, showcasing the Big 5 and an array of wildlife, including wild dogs, hippos, antelopes, giraffes, and even elusive leopards, set against a stunning backdrop of grasslands, bushes, mountains, and rocky outcrops.

Experience the ultimate safari adventure with intimate, exclusive wilderness safaris, featuring day and night game drives and bushwalks. With low safari vehicle concentrations and non-migratory animals, Madikwe guarantees a superior wildlife experience. The lodges found in the reserve, many world-class rated four or five stars, are strategically located in prime areas across the 75,000-hectare reserve, ensuring an unforgettable Madikwe safari holiday.

When contemplating Madikwe vs Kruger, consider whether a malaria-free safari destination is important, and how each combine with other stops on your adventure. Both have ample to offer various traveller types, but families with young children or multi-generational groups in particular may see the appeal of a malaria-free reserve like Madikwe. Allow us to break down all Madikwe accommodation options we’d recommend:

Madikwe Game Reserve Accommodation: Our Top Picks

1. Madikwe Safari Lodge

Stay in exceptional luxury accommodation with picturesque views | Madikwe Safari Lodge

Nestled in the heart of the Madikwe Game Reserve, where the African savannah stretches towards Botswana, Madikwe Safari Lodge offers an unparalleled luxury experience. Surrounded by an abundance of wildlife, including majestic elephants, stealthy predators, and vibrant birdlife, this lodge guarantees unforgettable game viewing opportunities. Warm hospitality, fine dining, and rejuvenating spa treatments seamlessly blend with the untamed beauty of the reserve, creating a truly immersive African wilderness experience.

Highlights: 

  • Perfect for romantic escapes and family safaris with children
  • Classic Big 5 game viewing
  • Kids delight in fun club activities inspired by African safaris
  • Expansive viewing deck overlooking a prime wildlife waterhole
  • Private game drives and guided bushwalks
  • Unwind with rejuvenating spa treatments, refreshing dips in the swimming pool, and world-class fine dining
  • Premium in-room facilities and exclusivity ensure a truly luxurious stay

Explore Madikwe Safari Lodge

2. Madikwe Hills Private Game Lodge

A look into the honeymoon suites at Madikwe Hills Private Game Lodge | Go2Africa
A look into the honeymoon suite | Madikwe Hills Private Game Reserve

Set amidst the majestic Tamboti trees and boulders of the reserve, Madikwe Hills Private Game Lodge offers an intimate and luxurious safari experience. A handful of expansive glass-fronted suites, and two-bedroom private villa, integrate beautifully with the landscape, each suite featuring a secluded viewing deck and plunge pool. Wooden walkways meander through the trees, connecting each suite to the central area while preserving the natural beauty of its surroundings. With uninterrupted views of the African bush, guests are immersed in the splendour of the reserve, enjoying an array of safari activities and unforgettable moments of true African majesty.

Highlights: 

  • Expansive uninterrupted views of the African wilderness
  • Intimate bushwalks led by expert trackers and guides for a personal African bush experience
  • Private game drives three times daily, tracking big and smaller wildlife
  • Specialised wildlife photography game drives to capture the perfect shot
  • Perfect for family safaris, romantic couples' escapes, and unforgettable wedding celebrations
Explore Madikwe Hills Private Game Lodge

3. Jamala Madikwe Lodge

A view from inside Jamala Madikwe out to the surrounding bush | Go2Africa
A beautiful evening in the bush | Jamala Madikwe

Set beneath the majestic canopies of ancient Leadwood trees, Jamala Madikwe Lodge harmonises comfort with a colonial influence, creating a unique safari experience. Personalised service and intimate bush encounters come together to deliver the ultimate African getaway. With raw stone, rich woods, and muted tones merging with the wilderness, the lodge's luxurious freestanding villas offer an unparalleled level of luxury and privacy. Each villa offers sweeping views of the watering hole and savannah, a private rim-flow pool, expansive wooden decks, and outdoor showers immerse guests in the natural surrounding beauty. As a testament to its culinary excellence, Jamala Madikwe Lodge has been awarded Best Safari Cuisine in Africa three times, making it a gastronomic haven for food enthusiasts.

Highlights: 

  • Perfect for solo adventurers and couples seeking a unique escape
  • Experience the ultimate in relaxation with a unique armchair safari
  • Tantalise your taste buds with exquisite cuisine
  • Views overlooking the adjacent waterhole
Explore Jamala Madikwe

4. Mateya Safari Lodge

Looking out over the scenery from Mateya Safari Lodge | Go2Africa
The perfect pool views | Mateya Safari Lodge

Positioned within the majestic Gabbro Hills of the iconic reserve, Mateya Safari Lodge offers an exclusive retreat for discerning travellers. With a maximum capacity of 10 guests, the lodge delivers unparalleled personal care, attention to detail, and tailored experiences. Earthy tones and rock designs merge perfectly with the surroundings, creating a harmonious balance between luxury and wilderness. Strategically perched at a high elevation, the lodge boasts uninterrupted views of the reserve. Each uniquely designed luxury suite exudes privacy and sophistication, allowing guests to immerse themselves in the solitude and beauty of Africa. Expert rangers guide guests on unforgettable game drives and bush walks, unlocking the secrets of the African wilderness.

Highlights: 

  • A luxurious couples' retreat in the heart of the African wilderness
  • Exclusive privacy and unforgettable animal encounters on a luxury safari
  • Private tour of the Mateya Safari Lodge art gallery, featuring stunning oil paintings and sculptures
  • Game drives and bush walks
Explore Mateya Safari Lodge

5. Morukuru Owner’s House

The private pool and fire pit at Morukuru Owners House | Go2Africa
Fire pit and private pool | Morukuru Owners House

Located on the banks of the Marico River, Morukuru Owner's House offers an exclusive private retreat for couples and smaller families seeking luxury and seclusion. Set beneath the leafy canopy of ancient Morukuru trees, the house is at one with its surroundings, featuring expansive decks and balconies that showcase a perfect fusion of contemporary European design and African artistry. With exclusive use of the property, guests enjoy peace, privacy, and personalised service – including private game rangers and tailored safari experiences. The ultimate in luxury and freedom, Morukuru Owner's House allows guests to indulge in their every whim.

Highlights:

  • Unique coastal safari experiences, including bushwalks and game drives
  • Exclusive sleepovers in romantic settings
  • Vibrant entertainment from attentive village dancers
  • Private game rangers
  • Wonderful views from decks and balconies
  • Tailored safari experiences
Explore Morukuru Owner’s House

6. Morukuru River House

Looking across the private pool at Morukuru River House | Go2Africa
Private pool dreams | Morukuru River House

Situated on the banks of the majestic Marico River in the heart of the Madikwe Game Reserve, Morukuru River House offers an sumblime guest experience. This exclusive-use safari villa seamlessly blends chic European design with the its wild surroundings, creating a unique retreat. With its prime riverside location, guests can indulge in romantic seclusion exclusivity, surrounded by the sights and sounds of the African bush.

Highlights:

  • Romantic sleep-out experience under the Madikwe stars at the water's edge Morukuru hide
  • Immerse in African rhythms with drumming lessons and vibrant local dance performances
  • Thrilling animal tracking on guided bush walks and game drives in the Madikwe Game Reserve
  • Perfect for family and group safari adventures
Explore Morukuru River House

7. Motswiri Private Safari Lodge

A private lounge with open fire place at Motswiri Private Safari Lodge in Madikwe Game Reserve | Go2Africa
Cosy evenings spent by the open fire | Motswiri Private Safari Lodge

Hidden beneath the majestic canopies of towering Leadwood trees, Motswiri Private Safari Lodge offers an intimate and sophisticated retreat, immersing guests in the untamed beauty of Africa. Elegant comfort fits naturally with the wilderness, breath-taking waterhole views, endless African horizons, and unique bush experiences awaiting discovery. Perfect for adventurous travellers and nature lovers alike, the lodge provides a tranquil haven.

Highlights:

  • Breath-taking views, elegant personalised service, and luxurious seclusion
  • Guided game drives tracking the majestic Big 5
  • Gourmet meals served under the starry African sky
  • Lavish sunset deck and open-air boma perfect for reconnecting with nature, self and loved ones
Explore Motswiri Private Safari Lodge

8. Jaci’s Safari Lodge and Jaci’s Tree Lodge

A look into one of the suites at Jaci's Tree Lodge | Go2Africa
View from your bedroom | Jaci’s Tree Lodge

Located in the heart of the Madikwe Game Reserve, Jaci’s Safari Lodge and Tree Lodge offer the ultimate luxury safari experience tailored to every traveller's dream. Whether seeking an epic Big 5 adventure, a romantic getaway, or a family-friendly holiday, this luxurious retreat delivers. Jaci's Tree Lodge blends effortlessly into its surroundings, providing unique tree house accommodations that immerse guests in their surroundings. With the stars above, and uninterrupted views of the sunrise, guests can revel in the beauty of the wild. Madikwe Game Reserve accommodation doesn't get much more exclusive than Jaci’s Safari Lodge and Tree Lodge, where luxury meets wilderness in a truly one-of-a-kind experience.

Highlights:

  • Unforgettable sleep-out experiences under the starry African sky
  • Luxurious Star Bed Suites and Tree House Suites offering unique accommodations
  • Thrilling open-vehicle game drives and expeditions
  • Intimate walking safaris for close encounters with wildlife
  • Perfect for family and group safari adventures
  • Romantic haven ideal for honeymoons and couples' getaways
Explore Jaci’s Tree Lodge

9. Tau Game Lodge

Guests overlooking the watering hole at Tau Game Lodge during breakfast | Go2Africa
Breakfast with a view | Tau Game Lodge

Set beside a sizeable natural watering hole, Tau Game Lodge affords its guests the best of both worlds – sensational sightings accompanied by expert guides around Madikwe Game Reserve and equally fantastic ones from the comfort of their breakfast table. Well-appointed traditionally thatched cottages provide a comforting African embrace while also providing elegance and modern amenities. Spend days exploring the reserve on game drives, or a guided bush walk, seeking out the iconic Big 5 or even elusive African wild dogs. Upon your return, spend time luxuriating in the swimming pool or indulging in a spa treatment. When the weather is mild, dine al fresco under a glorious carpet of stars.

Highlights:

  • Game drives and bush walks (available for people aged 16-60)
  • Family suites and units
  • Overlooks a watering hole
  • Spacious enough for the whole family or group to be accommodated
  • On-site spa treatments and pool

Explore tau Game Lodge

10. Impodimo Game Lodge

Looking out across Madikwe Game Reserve from a balcony at Impodimo Game Lodge | Go2Africa
Views across Madikwe | Impodimo Game Lodge

Set atop a hill with views over a natural spring, this luxury safari lodge invites guests to sit back, relax, and allow nature to come to them. With just a handful of suites, Impodimo Game Lodge enjoys a sense of intimacy and personalisation. With glass fronted chalets, each suite features far-reaching views of the surrounding bush making it even more difficult to leave the exquisite comfort of your bed. Embrace each day with game drives accompanied by dawns first rays, the balmy afternoon sun, and even lit by the stars at night. Change perspective a little and head out on a bush walk accompanied by guides ready to impart fascinating knowledge about your surroundings. Children of all ages are welcome and kept entertained with child-centric activities and even a ‘kiddies bumble’ game drive for those under the age of 6.

Highlights: 

  • Suited to families with children of all ages
  • Child specific activities
  • Option for morning, afternoon, and night game drives
  • Massage treatments available from the comfort of your room
  • On-site underground hide
Explore Impodimo Game Lodge

Ready to Plan Your Ultimate Madikwe Safari?

Has the wonder of a Big 5 safari and malaria-free location tipped the scales for your trip? Contact our Africa Safari Experts and allow them to help you plan your next great adventure to Madikwe Game Reserve.

Emma Thomson
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