Why Madikwe is South Africa's Best-Kept Safari Secret

South Africa is a country rich in natural diversity and this fact, paired the efforts of generations of passionate conservationists, has given rise to pockets of wild spaces in which large mammals and a wide variety of wildlife can live and thrive.

Though South Africa has many safari locations, from the vast and arid Karoo to the lush wilderness of our east coast and the bushveld of the north, we make no apologies for our bias when we say that Madikwe Game Reserve is the best place to start!

Located in the North West Province of South Africa (close to our country’s border with Botswana), Madikwe comprises 75,000 hectares of pristine and untouched bushveld.

Madikwe Game Reserve is renowned for its diverse wildlife, offering guests a rare chance to see a wide array of species in one place.

Home to the Big Five – lion, leopard, buffalo, elephant, and rhino – Madikwe also boasts an abundance of other fascinating creatures. The reserve is especially known for its African wild dog population, one of the largest and most successful reintroductions of the species in Africa. Visitors may also spot cheetahs, giraffes, hyenas, and over 350 bird species.

The varied landscape, from open plains to dense bush, ensures that different habitats support a rich ecosystem.

Whether you’re a first-time safari-goer or a seasoned traveler, Madikwe’s wealth of wildlife makes every game drive an unforgettable adventure.

This might seem like a strange point to make, but seasoned safari-goers know that animals don’t always hang around the road, simply waiting for vehicles to drive by.

Should you come across a magnificent sighting and your guide deems it appropriate, our safari vehicles can take you into the bushveld for a more intimate experience with the animals you’ve travelled so far to see.

Off the beaten track you will discover the true domain of the wildlife who call this reserve home, and there is something incredibly special about sharing their world with them, even if only for a short time.

What’s more? You just might discover the ultimate sundowner spot when heading off-road!

Due to its location, guests of Jaci’s Lodges don’t run any risk of contracting malaria while on their safari escape.

The Madikwe Game Reserve is a malaria-free area, making it the ideal choice for families with young children. It also means you won’t need to take any preventative medication prior to joining us, which is always a bonus.

To our minds, Madikwe’s malaria-free status leaves you with one less thing to worry about. (Especially should you feel called to sleep out under the stars during your stay.)

Despite the remoteness and privacy you will experience while staying at Jaci’s Lodges, Madikwe Game Reserve remains relatively easy to access. This is especially important for our international guests, who can choose whether they would prefer to fly in directly from O.R. Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg, or hire a car and make the very doable 4-hour journey by road.

Either way, getting to Madikwe Game Reserve is an easy obstacle to navigate. If you have any questions regarding transfers, please don’t hesitate to get in touch prior to your arrival. Our goal is to see you arrive safely and in high spirits ahead of your magical safari adventure.

For more information on getting to Madikwe Game Reserve (for local and international guests), click here.

Family-run lodges like Jaci’s Lodges offer a unique, personalised safari experience that sets them apart from larger, corporate-run operations.

With Jan and Jaci van Heteren at the helm, Jaci’s Lodges has flourished over 30 years, thanks to their deep passion for both wildlife and exceptional hospitality. This dynamic duo, along with their dedicated team, creates a warm, welcoming atmosphere where guests feel like part of the family.

What makes our lodge truly special is its connection to the local community. Through the Jaci’s Staff Trust, the van Heterens have empowered long-serving staff by offering them the opportunity to become shareholders in the business. This initiative not only uplifts individuals, but strengthens the bond between the lodge and the community it serves.

Here are a few more key factors that should put Madikwe Game Reserve at the top of your ‘must-visit safari locations’ list!

• Madikwe Game Reserve is less crowded than large parks like Kruger National Park, for example.
• Exclusive and private lodges make for a more intimate safari escape.
• Madikwe Game Reserve is one of South Africa’s conservation success stories and has a proud history of animal reintroduction and landscape rehabilitation.
• You will enjoy personalised service and receive the full benefit of a highly trained and knowledgeable guide during your time with us.
• Madikwe boasts diverse landscapes, including open plains, wooded hills, rocky outcrops, and riverine forests, all of which contribute to both the aesthetic appeal and the wildlife habitat variety.

Jaci’s Lodges provides an authentic, luxury safari experience where adventure and relaxation come together in one of South Africa’s premier Big Five game reserves.

Explore our luxurious accommodation options here.

To book your stay, reach out to our friendly reservations team at reservations@jacislodges.co.za, or conveniently book online to secure your dates.

We can’t wait to share that Madikwe magic with you and show you why it’s one of South Africa’s best-kept safari secrets!