Destinations / South Africa / Madikwe
Madikwe
Malair-Free Big 5 Safari
On the edge of the Kalahari, close to the Botswana border, Madikwe Game Reserve offers a Big Five safari without the need for antimalarial medication. Excellent wild dog sightings, varied landscapes and a small number of exclusive lodges make it one of South Africa's finest choices for families and shorter stays.
A Safari Without Compromise
Malaria-Free Big Five
Lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo and both black and white rhino are resident, with no antimalarial medication required.
Wild Dogs & Cheetahs
Madikwe is one of southern Africa's best places to see African wild dogs, alongside cheetahs, brown hyenas, and a rich variety of plains game.
Unspoiled & Exclusive
Covering around 290 square miles (750 km²) of open plains, bushveld and rocky outcrops, the reserve is reserved for guests of its lodges, keeping sightings uncrowded.
Unforgettable Experiences
One of South Africa's finest choices for families and shorter stays.
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Big Five Game Drives
Track lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo and both black and white rhino across Madikwe's open plains and rocky koppies.
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Wild Dog Tracking
Follow Madikwe's resident wild dog packs, among the most reliably seen in southern Africa, as they set out to hunt.
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Walking Safaris
Explore the bushveld and koppies on foot with an armed guide.
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Family Safaris
Enjoy child-friendly game drives and junior ranger activities in a malaria-free reserve, an hour's flight from Johannesburg.
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Photographic Hides
Watch elephants drink at eye level from a sunken hide beside a waterhole.
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Night Drives
Spotlight for brown hyenas, aardwolves and bat-eared foxes, Kalahari species at home on the reserve's western edge.
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Bush Dinners
Dine under a sky full of stars, far from city lights.
When to visit
Madikwe offers rewarding game viewing all year.
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The dry winter season brings clear skies and thinner vegetation, which makes wildlife easier to find. Early mornings and evenings are cold.
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The summer rains bring lush landscapes, newborn animals and superb birding, with warm days and afternoon storms.
Premier Stays
Intimate lodges reserved for a small number of guests.
Luxury Safari Lodges
Stylish lodges with private decks and plunge pools overlooking the bushveld.
Family-Friendly Lodges
Lodges that welcome children, with family suites, private vehicles and dedicated activities.
Exclusive Use Villas
Your own private villa, with a dedicated guide, safari vehicle, chef and staff.
Pairs Perfectly with…
Because the best safaris rarely stop at one destination.
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Cape Town
Combine a short safari with mountain, ocean and world-class cuisine.
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The Cape Winelands
Pair the bush with slow days among historic wine estates.
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Victoria Falls
Add the thundering spectacle of one of the world's greatest waterfalls.
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The Makgadikgadi Pans
Contrast the bushveld with Botswana's vast, shimmering salt pans.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Yes. Madikwe is in a malaria-free area, so no antimalarial medication is required, making it ideal for families and those who prefer to avoid it.
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Fly from Johannesburg to a private airstrip in the reserve in about an hour, or drive in around four to five hours.
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Yes. Madikwe is one of South Africa's most family-friendly reserves, with many lodges welcoming children of all ages.
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May to September offers the easiest game viewing. October to April brings newborn animals, lush scenery and wonderful birdlife.
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We recommend three nights, which pairs easily with Cape Town for a shorter South African journey.
