FAQs

Lelapa Camp is designed with families in mind, and children of all ages are welcome. The camp offers generous indoor and outdoor spaces where children can explore safely and freely, while parents relax without worry.

Lelapa Camp has:

• Dedicated family suites with separate children’s rooms, ideal for younger families.
• A spacious communal pool and lawn overlooking the waterhole – perfect for downtime between drives.
• The interactive Eco House, where children can learn, play, and connect with the bush in age-appropriate, hands-on ways.
• A warm, sociable atmosphere that makes it easy for families to feel at home.

There is plenty of room for children to be children, and just as much room for parents to unwind.

For more details on family safaris, you can also visit our Families page.

2. What shared spaces and communal areas does Lelapa offer?

Lelapa Camp has a generous layout with plenty of space for families and couples to relax between drives. Facilities include:

• A large pool and lawn overlooking the waterhole
• Outdoor lounges and a central firepit
• A welcoming bar and indoor lounge
• Dining decks with reserve views
• A spacious boma for outdoor dinners
• The interactive Eco House for children’s learning and play
• The Safari Spa, offering deeply restorative treatments inspired by the bush
• A light-filled gym overlooking the reserve
• The signature pool, perfect for slow afternoons and waterhole sightings
• The Boutique, legendary for its beautifully curated clothing, jewellery, creams, gifts and artisan homeware and art

3. What makes Lelapa’s waterhole special?

Lelapa Camp’s waterhole is one of its defining features. Set directly in front of the camp, it attracts a steady flow of wildlife throughout the day – from elephants and plains game to rarer visitors like wild dogs and brown hyena.

You can watch the waterhole from the pool, the dining decks, or even from your suite’s veranda. It creates a sense of constant connection to the bush, especially between game drives, and often delivers some of the most memorable sightings of the stay.

It’s a peaceful, natural gathering point for wildlife – and a favourite place to linger.

4. How are meals and dining arranged at Lelapa?

Dining at Lelapa Camp is relaxed, flexible and designed to suit families and couples alike. Meals take place in a variety of beautiful settings, including the indoor dining room, shaded decks, the lawn overlooking the waterhole, and the outdoor boma on selected evenings.

Weather and the season open up even more possibilities:

• Bush dinners under the stars
• Bush breakfasts enjoyed after morning safari
• Private dining on your deck or in a quiet corner of the lodge
• Imaginative, one-off settings created by the team for special moments

Families benefit from flexible mealtimes, children’s options and cmfortable spaces where little ones can settle. Couples will find quieter tables and plenty of privacy.

If you have a special wish for a dining experience, simply let us know – we love to make it happen.

5. What is included with my stay at Lelapa Camp?

A stay at Lelapa Camp includes everything you need for a comfortable, generous and unhurried safari. You’ll enjoy:

• Your private suite with indoor and outdoor lounges, ensuite bathroom, outdoor shower, private deck and plunge pool
• Twice-daily game drives with expert guides
• All meals, including bush breakfasts and boma dinners when the weather allows
• A wide selection of beverages, including house wines, spirits and soft drinks
• Access to all Lelapa’s communal spaces – pool, lounges, decks and boma
• Use of the gym, spa (treatments additional), and the signature pool
• High-quality binoculars, blankets, ponchos and hot-water bottles on game drives
• Wi-Fi throughout the camp

Optional extras such as spa treatments, private vehicles, boutique purchases and certain premium beverages can be added to your stay.

6. Can couples stay at Lelapa even though it’s family-focused?

Absolutely. While Lelapa Camp is our most family-friendly camp, it also offers plenty of peace and privacy for couples. Suites for couples are positioned away from the family suites, and the camp has many quiet corners, elevated decks and cosy lounges where you can relax undisturbed.

It’s also an excellent choice if you enjoy a balance of privacy and gentle social connection. Lelapa Camp naturally attracts guests from around the world, and many couples love the opportunity to meet new people at the bar, by the pool, or around the fire – and then retreat to the peace of their suite whenever they wish.

If you prefer a quieter or more intimate environment, Kopano Camp and Dithaba Camp are also excellent options – but couples at Lelapa never feel out of place.

7. What is the difference between a Suite and a Family Suite at Lelapa?

All suites at Lelapa Camp are generously sized at ±100m², combining spacious indoor living with a private deck and plunge pool. The key difference lies in the interior layout:

Lelapa Camp Suite (for couples or solo travellers)

• Large open-plan bedroom and lounge
• Ensuite bathroom with indoor and outdoor showers
• Private deck with plunge pool
• Ideal if you prefer more open space inside

Lelapa Camp Family Suite (for families with children)

• Same overall footprint (±100m²)
• Adds a separate children’s bedroom with bunk beds (third stretcher bed possible in the parents’ room)
• Shared ensuite bathroom
• Private deck and plunge pool (just as in the Suites)
• Designed to give parents and children their own spaces while staying close

The Family Suites reconfigure the interior footprint to include the children’s room, but offer the same generous space, comfort and amenities as the Suites.

Lelapa Camp has a generous layout with plenty of space for families and couples to relax between drives. Facilities include:

• A large pool and lawn overlooking the waterhole
• Outdoor lounges and a central firepit
• A welcoming bar and indoor lounge
• Dining decks with reserve views
• A spacious boma for outdoor dinners
• The interactive Eco House for children’s learning and play
• The Safari Spa, offering deeply restorative treatments inspired by the bush
• A light-filled gym overlooking the reserve
• The signature pool, perfect for slow afternoons and waterhole sightings

The Boutique, legendary for its beautifully curated clothing, jewellery, creams, gifts and artisan homeware and art

Lelapa Camp’s waterhole is one of its defining features. Set directly in front of the camp, it attracts a steady flow of wildlife throughout the day – from elephants and plains game to rarer visitors like wild dogs and brown hyena.

You can watch the waterhole from the pool, the dining decks, or even from your suite’s veranda. It creates a sense of constant connection to the bush, especially between game drives, and often delivers some of the most memorable sightings of the stay.

It’s a peaceful, natural gathering point for wildlife – and a favourite place to linger.

Dining at Lelapa Camp is relaxed, flexible and designed to suit families and couples alike. Meals take place in a variety of beautiful settings, including the indoor dining room, shaded decks, the lawn overlooking the waterhole, and the outdoor boma on selected evenings.

Weather and the season open up even more possibilities:

• Bush dinners under the stars
• Bush breakfasts enjoyed after morning safari
• Private dining on your deck or in a quiet corner of the lodge
• Imaginative, one-off settings created by the team for special moments

Families benefit from flexible mealtimes, children’s options and cmfortable spaces where little ones can settle. Couples will find quieter tables and plenty of privacy.

If you have a special wish for a dining experience, simply let us know – we love to make it happen.

A stay at Lelapa Camp includes everything you need for a comfortable, generous and unhurried safari. You’ll enjoy:

• Your private suite with indoor and outdoor lounges, ensuite bathroom, outdoor shower, private deck and plunge pool
• Twice-daily game drives with expert guides
• All meals, including bush breakfasts and boma dinners when the weather allows
• A wide selection of beverages, including house wines, spirits and soft drinks
• Access to all Lelapa’s communal spaces – pool, lounges, decks and boma
• Use of the gym, spa (treatments additional), and the signature pool
• High-quality binoculars, blankets, ponchos and hot-water bottles on game drives
• Wi-Fi throughout the camp

Optional extras such as spa treatments, private vehicles, boutique purchases and certain premium beverages can be added to your stay.

Absolutely. While Lelapa Camp is our most family-friendly camp, it also offers plenty of peace and privacy for couples. Suites for couples are positioned away from the family suites, and the camp has many quiet corners, elevated decks and cosy lounges where you can relax undisturbed.

It’s also an excellent choice if you enjoy a balance of privacy and gentle social connection. Lelapa Camp naturally attracts guests from around the world, and many couples love the opportunity to meet new people at the bar, by the pool, or around the fire – and then retreat to the peace of their suite whenever they wish.

If you prefer a quieter or more intimate environment, Kopano Camp and Dithaba Camp are also excellent options – but couples at Lelapa never feel out of place.

All suites at Lelapa Camp are generously sized at ±100m², combining spacious indoor living with a private deck and plunge pool. The key difference lies in the interior layout:

Lelapa Camp Suite (for couples or solo travellers)

• Large open-plan bedroom and lounge
• Ensuite bathroom with indoor and outdoor showers
• Private deck with plunge pool
• Ideal if you prefer more open space inside

Lelapa Camp Family Suite (for families with children)

• Same overall footprint (±100m²)
• Adds a separate children’s bedroom with bunk beds (third stretcher bed possible in the parents’ room)
• Shared ensuite bathroom
• Private deck and plunge pool (just as in the Suites)
• Designed to give parents and children their own spaces while staying close

The Family Suites reconfigure the interior footprint to include the children’s room, but offer the same generous space, comfort and amenities as the Suites.

Kopano Camp is our intimate, four-suite camp designed for guests who prefer a quieter, more personal safari. It sits close enough to Lelapa Camp for easy access to shared facilities, yet feels distinctly private, with spacious suites and peaceful guest areas that never feel busy.

Where Lelapa Camp is lively and family-focused, and Dithaba Camp is elevated and remote, Kopano Camp offers a middle ground: refined, calm, and wonderfully intimate. With only a handful of guests in camp at any time, your safari feels unhurried, attentive, and deeply personalised – the kind of place where you can unwind in peace, or share stories with a few like-minded travellers if you choose.

Kopano Camp is best suited to couples, solo travellers, and families with older teenagers or adult children. Children 16 years and older are welcome, which helps maintain the camp’s quiet, refined atmosphere.

Families with younger children are welcome to book Kopano Camp on a full camp exclusive-use basis, allowing complete flexibility while preserving the experience for all guests.

Kopano Camp may be small, but it has beautiful, dedicated guest spaces that create its calm, intimate atmosphere. These include:

• A stunning infinity pool overlooking the waterhole – one of the most peaceful vantage points in the lodge
• A spacious deck with sweeping views, perfect for relaxing between drives
• A central lounge with indoor–outdoor seating
• A dining area for relaxed meals
• A small boma used for select dinners and fireside evenings

Guests at Kopano also enjoy access to the facilities at Lelapa Camp, just a short walk away:

• The Safari Spa
• The gym with a view
• The signature pool overlooking the waterhole 
• The boutique, known for exceptional clothing, jewellery, homeware and artisan gifts
• Larger communal boma evenings hosted at Lelapa

This setup gives you the tranquility of a four-suite camp, with the option to enjoy the wider amenities at Lelapa whenever you choose.

Kopano Camp is located just a short, gentle walk from Lelapa Camp – close enough for easy access, yet far enough to maintain its own quiet, intimate atmosphere. A well-marked pathway links the two camps, and most guests enjoy the short stroll between them.

This means you can relax at Kopano Camp’s peaceful pool and deck, then wander over to Lelapa Camp for the spa, gym, boutique or a hosted boma dinner whenever you wish.

Kopano Camp is best suited to older families who enjoy a quieter, more refined safari. Children 16 years and older are welcome, making it ideal for families with teens or adult children who appreciate privacy and a peaceful atmosphere.

Families with younger children are welcome to stay at Kopano Camp when booking a full camp exclusive-use arrangement. This gives you complete freedom around schedules, mealtimes and activities, while keeping the tranquillity of the camp intact for everyone.

If you’re travelling with younger children and prefer a camp designed entirely around families, Lelapa Camp is the best fit.

A stay at Kopano Camp includes everything you need for a quiet, seamless and deeply personalised safari experience:

• Beautifully appointed suites with indoor–outdoor living and private decks
• Twice-daily game drives with expert guides
• All meals, including relaxed deck dining and occasional boma evenings
• A selection of house beverages, including wines, spirits and soft drinks
• Use of Kopano Camp’s guest areas – infinity pool, viewing decks, lounge and dining spaces
• Access to Lelapa’s spa, gym, boutique, and signature pool
• Safari comforts such as blankets, ponchos, hot-water bottles and high-quality binoculars
• Wi-Fi in camp

Optional extras such as spa treatments, private vehicles, premium beverages and boutique purchases can be added to your stay.

Dithaba Camp is our most elevated and secluded camp, set high on the hillside with sweeping views across the bushveld. With only four suites, it offers a deep sense of stillness, privacy and space – a camp that feels gently removed from everything else.

Where Lelapa Camp is lively and family-focused, and Kopano Camp is intimate and close-knit, Dithaba Camp is quiet, spacious and contemplative. Sunrises and sunsets unfold right in front of you, and the elevated position creates a calming sense of being “above it all.”

Yet you’re never isolated. A short meander brings you to Kopano or Lelapa Camps whenever you feel like visiting the spa, gym, boutique, or joining a boma evening – giving you the perfect balance of retreat and connection.

It’s the camp to choose if you want uninterrupted views, privacy, and the freedom to drift between solitude and sociability as the whim arrives.

Dithaba Camp blends privacy, space and sweeping hilltop views with generous communal areas that feel peaceful and unhurried.

Each suite includes:

• A private plunge pool on your deck
• Indoor and outdoor lounges for relaxed downtime
• An ensuite bathroom with indoor and outdoor showers
• A spacious deck positioned for uninterrupted bushveld views

The camp’s shared facilities include:

• A communal infinity pool, beautifully positioned on the hillside with panoramic views 
• A serene fire deck, perfect for quiet evenings under the stars
• A central lounge and dining area
• A generous main deck overlooking the valley

Guests at Dithaba may also visit Kopano or Lelapa Camps if they wish to enjoy the spa, gym, boutique or signature pool – giving you the freedom to drift between retreat and connection as you choose.

Yes. While Dithaba Camp is our most elevated and secluded camp, guests are welcome to visit Kopano and Lelapa Camps whenever they wish.

At these camps, you’ll find:

• The Safari Spa
• The gym
• The signature swimming pool
• The boutique known for its exceptional clothing, jewellery, gifts and artisan homeware
• Larger boma evenings hosted at Lelapa

This access gives you the flexibility to enjoy wellness treatments, shopping or a more social atmosphere, while still returning to the peace and privacy of your hilltop retreat at Dithaba Camp.

Dithaba Camp sits higher on the hillside than our other camps, giving it its signature sense of privacy and wide-open views. It’s a little further away than Kopano Camp, but still easy to reach whenever you’d like to visit Lelapa or Kopano for the spa, gym, boutique or signature pool.

Most guests enjoy the short scenic walk, though the elevation means it is slightly more uphill and downhill than the path between Lelapa and Kopano. If you prefer not to walk, your guide or a team member will gladly arrange a quick vehicle transfer at any time.

This balance keeps Dithaba wonderfully quiet and private, while ensuring you’re never far from the facilities you may want to enjoy.

Yes. Dithaba Camp is one of the most popular options for exclusive-use bookings, especially for multi-generational families, special gatherings or small groups of friends. With just four suites, a central lounge, a fire deck and a communal infinity pool, the camp becomes your own private hilltop retreat.

When booked exclusively, families may bring younger children, as you have full control over schedules, mealtimes and how you use the space. It creates a private, flexible environment where everyone can relax in their own rhythm.

For couples or guests booking individual suites, Dithaba Camp maintains its standard age policy of 16 years and older.

Exclusive use is the best way to enjoy total privacy with all the comforts and views that make Dithaba Camp so special.

A stay at Dithaba Camp includes everything you need for a quiet, spacious and deeply restorative safari experience. You’ll enjoy:

• A beautifully appointed suite with indoor–outdoor living and your own private plunge pool
• Twice-daily game drives with experienced guides
• All meals, including relaxed deck dining and occasional shared boma evenings
• A selection of house beverages, including wines, spirits and soft drinks
• Use of Dithaba’s guest spaces – the communal infinity pool, fire deck, main lounge and viewing decks
• Access to Kopano and Lelapa Camps for the spa, gym, boutique and signature pool
• Safari comforts such as blankets, ponchos, hot-water bottles and high-quality binoculars on drives
• Wi-Fi throughout the camp

Optional extras – such as spa treatments, private vehicles, premium beverages and boutique purchases – can easily be added to enhance your experience. 

Elela Villa accommodates up to six guests in 3 suites and is designed for families, friends or multi-generational groups who want to stay together in complete privacy.

If your group is larger than six, Elela can be seamlessly combined with Kopano Camp, Lelapa Camp or Dithaba Camp. This allows your wider group to stay close – sharing safari experiences and meals when you wish – while preserving the privacy, discretion and flow of a villa stay.

Elela Villa is booked on a fully exclusive-use basis. The rate applies to the villa as a whole, whether it is occupied by one guest or the full complement of six.

This pricing reflects the privacy, dedicated space and personalised experience of staying in a private safari villa, rather than a per-suite or per-person arrangement.

Yes – safari times at Elela Villa are flexible, but always guided by the natural rhythm of the bush.

With your own private guide and vehicle, your day can be shaped around your group’s preferences: later starts, extended drives, or returning early if you wish. This flexibility is especially valuable for families, photographers, or guests who want a slower, more personalised pace.

That said, safari timing remains intentional. Early mornings and late afternoons are when weather at its most comfortable and wildlife activity is at its best. Your guide will always advise on the optimal times to maximise sightings and experiences.

Elela Villa is designed as a fully private safari home, with generous indoor and outdoor spaces reserved exclusively for your group. Facilities include:

• A comfortable lounge with a wood-burning fireplace for winter evenings and air conditioning for summer comfort
• A spacious shaded deck overlooking a waterhole, ideal for relaxed game viewing between activities
• A private infinity pool
• A traditional boma for open-air dining and fireside evenings
• A dedicated fire pit for starlit nights
• A well-equipped kitchenette with coffee-making facilities
• A stocked fridge, glasses, cutlery and crockery for everyday use
• A private game drive departure point, ensuring complete privacy and flexibility

All spaces within Elela are yours alone, allowing your group to move through the day at your own pace, without shared areas or interruptions.

A stay at Elela Villa is built around private, personalised safari experiences, with the freedom to shape each day entirely around your group.

Your stay includes:

• Private game drives with your own guide and vehicle, tailored to your interests and pace
• Flexible safari planning for families, photographers or guests who prefer a slower rhythm
• All meals enjoyed privately at the villa, whether in the boma, on the shaded deck overlooking the waterhole, or indoors by the fire
• Time to relax at the villa’s infinity pool, fire pit and private viewing areas

Elela guests are also warmly invited to enjoy the wider Madikwe Safari Lodge experience:

• Dining at the other camps, including boma dinners at Lelapa and relaxed deck meals at Kopano
• Spending time at Lelapa’s signature swimming pool — perfect for a leisurely lunch, a swim, or a cocktail in the afternoon
• Full access to the spa, gym and boutique at Lelapa, with the spa just a short distance away

Elela offers the privacy of a standalone villa, combined with the freedom to move between camps, dine in different settings and enjoy shared spaces — creating a stay that feels both deeply personal and richly connected.

Yes. Elela Villa is supported by a dedicated team, ensuring a seamless, private and highly personalised stay.

Your group will have your own guide and safari vehicle, along with a villa team who look after the day-to-day flow of your stay – from meals and hosting to ensuring the villa is always quietly and thoughtfully cared for.

The service style is warm and intuitive rather than formal, allowing you to feel at home while knowing everything is taken care of. It’s this balance – attentive but unobtrusive – that makes Elela feel like a private safari residence rather than a hotel.

Yes. Elela Villa is exceptionally well suited to multi-generational families travelling together.

Because the villa is booked exclusively, it allows different generations to move at their own pace – whether that’s early starts for some, slower mornings for others, or time together balanced with moments of privacy. With your own guide and vehicle, safari activities can be tailored to suit varying interests, energy levels and ages.

Shared living spaces encourage connection, while the villa’s layout allows everyone to retreat into their own space when needed. This makes Elela an ideal setting for families who want to spend meaningful time together, without the constraints of a traditional lodge environment.

Arrival at Elela Villa is designed to feel private and unhurried, whether you arrive by road or by air.

Guests are welcomed directly at the villa, where your dedicated team will take care of check-in discreetly and efficiently. There is no formal reception or shared arrival space – you simply arrive, settle in, and begin your stay at your own pace.

On departure, arrangements are handled just as seamlessly. Your team will coordinate timing with your onward travel, whether that’s a game drive before departure, a relaxed breakfast at the villa, or a direct transfer.

The experience is intentionally simple and personal – more like arriving at a private safari home than checking into a lodge.

Yes. Elela Villa is well suited to private milestone occasions, including birthdays, anniversaries, elopements and intimate weddings.

Because the villa is booked exclusively, it offers the privacy, space and flexibility needed for meaningful gatherings without external guests or shared spaces. Ceremonies and celebrations can be arranged within the villa’s grounds, at the boma, or in select bush settings, subject to reserve guidelines and advance planning.

The focus is on intimate, personal occasions rather than large events. Our team will work with you to understand the nature of the celebration and ensure it is thoughtfully integrated into your stay, in keeping with the rhythm of safari life and the setting.

Children of all ages are welcome at Elela Villa.

The only age-related consideration applies when visiting the other camps for dining. As Kopano Camp is reserved for guests aged 16 and over, families with younger children may prefer to dine at Lelapa Camp, which is designed to accommodate families and offers a range of dining options and facilities.

The spa is situated on the outer edge of Lelapa Camp, where it meets Kopano Camp. This position was intentionally chosen to create a calm, private environment while remaining easily accessible.

It is in close proximity to Kopano and Elela Villa, and within comfortable walking distance from Dithaba Camp, although transfers are available for guests who prefer them.

The spa operates daily, with treatment times scheduled to work around safari activities.

Appointments are typically available between morning and afternoon game drives. Exact operating hours may vary slightly by season.

We recommend booking treatments in advance to secure your preferred time.

The spa at Madikwe Safari Lodge stands out for its scale, facilities and setting, which are exceptional within the reserve.

It offers a purpose-built wellness space with multiple treatment rooms, a steam room, dipping pool, and quiet relaxation areas – features not commonly found together in Madikwe Game Reserve. The spa’s location, tucked in the trees, allows treatments to take place in a calm, uninterrupted environment closely connected to nature.

Equally important is the experience and consistency of the therapy team, the quality of the products used, and the ability to integrate spa time seamlessly into the safari schedule without feeling rushed.

Yes. Guests may use the steam room and dipping pool as part of their spa experience.

Use of these facilities is typically linked to a booked treatment and is subject to availability at the time, as the spa aims to maintain a quiet, relaxed environment for all guests.

If you would like to include time in the steam room or dipping pool, we recommend mentioning this when booking your treatment so it can be accommodated comfortably.

The spa offers a comprehensive range of treatments designed to support relaxation, recovery and overall wellbeing.

Treatments include:

• Massages, ranging from gentle relaxation to deeper therapeutic work
• Facials, focused on hydration, balance and skin health
• Body treatments and rituals, including exfoliation and wrap-style experiences
• Wellness-focused treatments that complement time spent on safari

A small selection of treatments for younger guests is also available, tailored appropriately by age.

Full treatment details and durations are outlined in the spa menu, and the team is happy to help you choose the most suitable option based on your needs and schedule.

We use Terres d’Afrique, an African botanical skincare range that combines traditional plant wisdom with modern scientific formulation.

Products are made using ethically sourced, African-grown botanicals such as baobab, marula, rooibos, kigelia and myrrh, chosen for their ability to hydrate, restore and protect the skin – particularly after sun exposure and time outdoors on safari.

The range is vegan, cruelty-free, microbiome-friendly and sustainably produced, and is used across massage therapies, facials and body treatments. A selection of Terres d’Afrique products is also available for purchase at the spa.

If you have sensitive skin or specific product concerns, therapists are happy to adapt treatments where possible.

Yes. The spa offers couple’s treatments in a dedicated treatment room, designed for guests who want to slow down and spend meaningful time together.

These treatments are particularly popular with couples seeking connection, quiet and shared relaxation as part of their safari experience. The spa also offers signature couple’s treatments, created specifically to be enjoyed side by side in a calm, private setting.

As availability is limited, we recommend booking couple’s treatments in advance to secure your preferred time.

Yes. The spa offers a dedicated children’s treatment called the Cubs’ Massage.

The Cubs’ Massage is a gentle, nurturing treatment designed especially for younger guests, using soft, natural oils to help calm the body and mind. It’s a lovely option for parents who would like to spoil their child with a special, feel-good experience, and is often enjoyed as a one-off treat during the stay.

Spa treatments can be booked in advance through the reservations team or during your stay via the lodge team.

Because therapist availability is limited and popular treatment times fill quickly, we recommend booking ahead of arrival wherever possible. This is especially important for couple’s treatments or if you have specific timing preferences.

The team will be happy to help you choose suitable treatments and schedule them around your safari activities.

Madikwe Safari Lodge offers a variety of dining experiences, rather than a single fixed dining format.

Depending on the day and the camp you’re staying in, meals may be enjoyed:

• In the main lodge dining areas
• Outdoors in a boma
• On a deck overlooking the bush
• As a bush breakfast or bush dinner during a game drive

Dining locations are chosen based on safari timing, weather conditions and the overall guest experience, creating variety while keeping the day running smoothly.

For many guests, dining quietly in the bush – surrounded by the sounds and scents of the reserve – becomes one of the most memorable moments of their safari.

A bush breakfast or bush dinner is a meal enjoyed at a designated location in the reserve during a game drive, rather than at the lodge.

These locations are carefully selected for guest comfort and safety, and the experience is fully supported by a professional service team. Your guide remains present throughout, and all logistics are handled discreetly in the background.

Bush breakfasts usually take place in the morning after the drive, while bush dinners are arranged in the early evening. These experiences are weather- and logistics-dependent and are arranged at the lodge’s discretion, so they cannot be guaranteed on every stay.

Yes. Private dining can be arranged in a variety of settings, subject to availability and weather conditions.

This may include dining:

• On your private deck or suite veranda
• In a quiet area of the lodge

For guests staying at Elela Villa, dining is always private, with meals enjoyed exclusively within the villa or in its outdoor spaces.

Private dining is particularly popular for couples, families or guests celebrating a special occasion. Requests can be discussed with the team during your stay, though availability outside of Elela Villa is managed alongside safari schedules and operational considerations.

Yes. The kitchen team can accommodate a range of dietary sensitivities, including lactose intolerance, gluten intolerance and food allergies, provided these are communicated in advance.

Dietary preferences such as vegetarian, vegan, halaal or kosher meals can also be accommodated, subject to prior notice and ingredient availability.

Because Madikwe Safari Lodge operates in a remote safari environment, we strongly recommend sharing all dietary requirements and preferences with the reservations team before arrival to ensure they can be planned for appropriately.

Yes. Children are well catered for with dedicated kids’ menus designed to balance familiarity, flexibility and nourishment.

For lunch and dinner, options include child-friendly favourites such as grilled chicken or fish, beef fillet, burgers, toasted sandwiches, pasta dishes, lasagne and build-your-own pizza, alongside simpler, healthier choices like a wellness bowl with fresh vegetables.

There is also a selection of kids’ smoothies and milkshakes, as well as a few classic desserts such as vanilla ice cream, chocolate brownies and frozen fruit lollies – offering treats without overwhelming younger guests.

Menus and portion sizes can be adapted to suit different ages, and mealtimes are kept flexible where possible. If your child has specific dietary needs or preferences, we recommend sharing these in advance so the kitchen team can plan accordingly.

Yes. Menus can be thoughtfully tailored for special occasions such as birthdays, anniversaries or private group dinners, provided arrangements are discussed in advance.

The kitchen team can work within the seasonal menu to adjust dishes, create a more personalised dining flow, or plan a special meal in an appropriate setting. Requests are considered alongside safari schedules, guest numbers and operational logistics, so availability may vary.

If you’re celebrating a particular occasion during your stay, we recommend letting the reservations team know ahead of time so it can be planned for as smoothly as possible.

Yes, depending on where you are staying.

• Guests staying at Kopano Camp are welcome to dine at Lelapa Camp.
• Guests staying at Dithaba Camp or Elela Villa may dine at Kopano Camp or Lelapa Camp (as long as children are over the age of 16).

Across Madikwe Safari Lodge, boma dinners and poolside lunches overlooking the waterhole at Lelapa Camp are particularly popular dining experiences and are enjoyed by guests from all camps when available.

As dining is carefully coordinated across the lodge, meals at another camp are subject to availability, guest numbers and the dining setup on the day. Requests can be discussed with the team during your stay and will be accommodated where possible, in line with safari schedules and operational flow.

A selection of house beverages is included with your stay, including wines, spirits, beers, cocktails and soft drinks.

The wine offering focuses primarily on South African wines, selected to complement the lodge’s menus and dining style. Premium wines, champagnes and certain speciality spirits may be available at an additional cost.

Purified drinking water, both still and sparkling, is available in public spaces across all camps, allowing guests to refill their bottles at leisure throughout the day. Tea, coffee and non-alcoholic options are also readily available.

Yes. All meals and snacks are included as part of your stay at Madikwe Safari Lodge.

This includes:

• Breakfast, lunch and dinner
• Treats on game drives, including a morning coffee stop and afternoon sundowners
• High tea served in the afternoon before safari
• In-room minibar snacks

House beverages are included throughout your stay, with premium drinks available at an additional cost. All dining and refreshment experiences are delivered in line with safari schedules and the overall rhythm of the lodge.

Madikwe Game Reserve is one of the few Big Five reserves in South Africa that is officially malaria-free. This matters more than many guests realise – especially if you’re travelling with young children, if you prefer not to take malaria medication, or if anyone in your group has a sensitive or compromised immune system.

Malaria is a mosquito-borne illness transmitted through the bite of an infected Anopheles mosquito. Even in low-risk areas, travellers often need to consider prophylactic medication and the small but real precautions that come with it.

In Madikwe, none of that is necessary. You can simply arrive, relax, and enjoy your safari without having to think about malaria at all.

For many families and first-time safari travellers, that peace of mind is a significant part of choosing Madikwe.

Children of all ages are welcome at Madikwe Safari Lodge, but age restrictions apply to game drives for safety reasons.

In line with reserve regulations, children under 6 years are not permitted on shared game drives. Families travelling with younger children can either:

• book a private safari vehicle, which allows complete flexibility, or
• enjoy a shorter, tailored children’s safari experience close to the lodge with a guide trained in engaging young guests.

Children aged 6–11 may join normal game drives.

Children 12 years and older are treated as adults on safari and can join all standard drives.

Our guides are exceptionally experienced with families and take great care to ensure children feel safe, included, and excited – without compromising the comfort of other guests or the integrity of the wildlife experience.

Yes. For safety reasons, walking safaris are only offered to guests aged 16 years and older. This is a reserve-wide regulation that applies throughout Madikwe.

Walks take place close to camp or in carefully selected areas, and are always led by a fully qualified trails guide.

For guests aged 60 and older, Madikwe Game Reserve follows the North West Parks Board regulation requiring a doctor’s note confirming good physical health for participation. While the rule can feel counter-intuitive – many guests in their sixties and older are far fitter than people half their age – it is a formal safety requirement applied consistently across these Big Five walking areas.

Your guide will always make the final call on whether a walk is appropriate, taking into account fitness, mobility, weather, recent wildlife movement and overall safety.

Walking safaris are a wonderful complement to game drives: slower, more sensory, and focused on tracks, plants and the smaller details that bring the ecosystem to life.

Choosing the right camp usually comes down to four things: whether you mind the presence of children, how much privacy you prefer, the size of the camp, and your budget. All camps are close together and share a similar design style, so they combine easily for multi-camp stays or families travelling together.

Lelapa Camp – Our largest and most family-friendly camp, with 12 suites (including 4 dedicated family rooms). It has a warm, social atmosphere, but couples still enjoy plenty of privacy thanks to well-positioned suites and quiet spaces throughout the camp.
[All ages welcome]

Kopano Camp – Small, quiet and intimate, with only four suites. Ideal for couples and solo travellers who prefer a calm, boutique-style environment.
[16+ welcome]

Dithaba Camp – Elevated and secluded with panoramic views. Suits honeymooners, privacy seekers, and groups wanting to take over a whole camp.
[16+ welcome]

Elela Villa – A fully private, exclusive-use villa with its own team, chef and safari vehicle. Best for private travellers, families or groups wanting complete privacy and flexibility.
[All ages welcome]

Madikwe Safari Lodge is widely regarded as one of South Africa’s leading family safari destinations because it combines a malaria-free Big Five reserve with a lodge setup that genuinely works for families.

The lodge offers flexible accommodation, including family rooms and villas, along with safari experiences that can be adapted to suit different ages and energy levels. Game drives are thoughtfully managed for families, with options for shorter drives, private vehicles and guides who are experienced in engaging younger guests.

Families are also supported through considered hospitality, from nourishing, child-friendly food to generous living and entertainment spaces that allow children to feel comfortable and at ease. Parents can relax knowing their children have room to be themselves, without feeling as though they are disturbing other guests.

Importantly, Madikwe Game Reserve’s calm safari culture, limited vehicle numbers at sightings and spacious landscapes create a relaxed, unhurried environment that suits families particularly well.

Beyond comfort and logistics, a safari at Madikwe offers children a meaningful connection to the natural world – encouraging curiosity, awareness and respect for wildlife in a way that is difficult to replicate elsewhere.

Lelapa Camp welcomes children of all ages, with different elements of the safari experience appealing to different stages of childhood.

• Younger children benefit from the malaria-free environment, flexible accommodation, child-friendly dining and the option of shorter or private game drives.
• School-aged children often thrive on safari, engaging deeply with wildlife, tracking, storytelling and time outdoors.
• Young teenagers tend to enjoy the sense of independence, the quality of wildlife viewing and the more immersive aspects of the safari experience.

Across all ages, safari offers something increasingly rare: dedicated, uninterrupted time with parents, shared experiences and moments of discovery that naturally bring families closer together.

Because the lodge can adapt the pace and structure of activities, Madikwe works particularly well for families with mixed ages, as well as multi-generational groups travelling together.

Lelapa Camp is the best choice for families travelling with younger children, as it is the only camp that welcomes children of all ages.

Lelapa offers:

• Family-friendly room configurations
• Generous shared spaces where children can feel comfortable and relaxed
• Easy access to dining, the spa, pool and main lodge facilities
• A warm, inclusive atmosphere that works well for families spending time together

That said, older children and teenagers may also be well suited to Kopano Camp or Dithaba Camp, particularly when families book the camp exclusively.

The reservations team can advise on the best camp option based on your children’s ages, group size and how you would like to experience safari as a family.

Yes. Lelapa Camp offers dedicated family rooms designed to give parents and children both connection and privacy.

Children are accommodated in a separate bedroom adjoining the parents’ room, typically set up with twin beds or bunk beds, depending on the specific room layout. This allows families to stay together while ensuring everyone has their own space.

In certain cases, a third child may be accommodated on a stretcher bed in the parents’ room, set up in the lounge area, subject to availability and the child’s age.

Because family room layouts vary, the reservations team will always confirm the most suitable configuration based on the number and ages of children travelling, and availability a the camp.

For safety reasons, children under the age of 6 are not permitted on shared game drives.

As part of the children’s programme at Lelapa Camp, younger guests can enjoy guided ‘bumbles’ close to the lodge. These short explorations are designed to introduce children to the bush in a fun, age-appropriate way without the intensity of a full safari drive.

If parents would like younger children to participate in game drives, a private safari vehicle can be arranged at an additional cost. This allows the guide to adapt the pace, duration and focus of the drive to suit children’s ages and attention spans.

The reservations team will advise on the most suitable safari options based on the ages of your children and how you would like to experience safari as a family.

Yes. Dining at Madikwe Safari Lodge works well for families, with child-friendly meal options, flexible portion sizes and relaxed mealtimes.

At Lelapa Camp, children are well catered for with dedicated kids’ menus, simple and nourishing dishes, and the ability to adapt meals to suit younger tastes. Mealtimes are designed to be easy and unpressured, allowing families to enjoy meals together without formality.

If your child has dietary requirements or preferences, we recommend sharing these in advance so the kitchen team can plan accordingly.

Yes, particularly at Lelapa Camp.

Children can take part in nature-led activities through the Eco House, including spoor identification, simple bush crafts and hands-on discovery. Guided bush ‘bumbles’ close to the lodge offer safe outdoor exploration, while pool time at Lelapa’s main pool is a firm favourite for families.

Activities such as pizza making and baking take place in the kitchen and dining areas, allowing children to be part of lodge life rather than a separate programme.

There is no formal kids’ club – activities are kept informal, flexible and integrated into the safari experience.

Yes. Babysitting can be arranged at Lelapa Camp, both during game drives and in the evenings, subject to availability and prior arrangement.

This service is offered at an additional cost, which will be confirmed at the time of booking. Babysitting is provided as a supportive, lodge-based service rather than a formal childcare programme.

Because availability depends on staff scheduling, we strongly recommend arranging babysitting in advance through the reservations team, who can also advise on the applicable costs.

Madikwe Safari Lodge is particularly well suited to celebrations because of its adaptability and flexibility across both accommodation and experiences.

The lodge is designed to host different types of guests at the same time — couples, families, friends and multi-generational groups — without compromising anyone’s experience. With multiple camps and a private villa in close proximity, groups can stay together while still enjoying varying levels of privacy, comfort and style.

Experiences can be shaped to suit the rhythm and preferences of the group, whether that means shared moments, quieter downtime, or a balance of both. The team is experienced in working with groups of all kinds and understands how to accommodate different needs, personalities and expectations within a single celebration.

The result is a destination that feels effortless and inclusive, allowing groups to celebrate together while giving each guest the space to enjoy safari in their own way.

Madikwe Safari Lodge has hosted private gatherings of up to 46 guests across its camps and Elela Villa.

Groups are typically accommodated across multiple camps, with Lelapa Camp serving as the natural hub for shared meals and gatherings thanks to its spacious and welcoming communal areas. This allows groups to come together comfortably while still enjoying different room types, levels of privacy and individual preferences.

The team will guide the configuration based on availability, group composition and how you would like to celebrate, ensuring the experience feels cohesive, relaxed and well supported.

Yes. Madikwe Safari Lodge is well suited to intimate weddings of up to 46 guests.

The lodge specialises in small, personal celebrations rather than large-scale weddings. The team can take care of the full wedding setup, including coordination of the ceremony, minister, flowers, décor, music and key logistical details, allowing couples to focus on the moment rather than the planning.

Weddings are approached with the same flexibility and sensitivity that define the lodge experience, ensuring the celebration feels authentic, relaxed and true to the couple, while fitting naturally into the safari environment.

Because weddings are carefully curated and availability is limited, we recommend discussing plans with the reservations team well in advance.

Not at all. Madikwe Safari Lodge is designed so that guests can be comfortably accommodated across different camps and the villa without the experience feeling fragmented.

The camps share a similar design language, level of comfort and service philosophy, and are located in close proximity to one another, making it easy for groups to come together for shared experiences. Importantly, the same hospitality team works across the lodge, ensuring consistency, familiarity and seamless coordination throughout your stay.

This setup allows the lodge to adapt to different needs within a group – whether that’s families, couples or guests seeking more privacy – while maintaining a cohesive, trusted experience for everyone.

Yes. Menus and experiences can be thoughtfully customised to suit your group and the nature of your celebration.

The team works closely with you to shape shared meals, dining locations and experiences that reflect your group’s preferences, pace and style – whether that’s relaxed communal dining, private meals, or a mix of both. Dietary requirements and preferences are easily accommodated, and menus can be adapted to suit the occasion without feeling overly formal.

Experiences can also be tailored to allow the group to spend meaningful time together, while still respecting the natural rhythm of safari. The focus is always on creating something that feels personal, well-considered and effortless, rather than staged or overproduced.

Yes, absolutely. Madikwe offers a range of beautiful and safe locations within the reserve where groups can come together.

Shared coffee stops, sundowners, bush breakfasts and dinners can all be arranged in carefully selected settings that are both scenic and appropriate for group gatherings. These locations are chosen with guest comfort and safety in mind, and are fully supported by the guiding and hospitality teams.

These shared moments are often the highlight of a group celebration – allowing everyone to come together in a way that feels natural, memorable and true to the safari experience.

Madikwe Safari Lodge is not designed as a traditional meetings or conference venue. Technical infrastructure and equipment are limited, making it less suitable for formal presentations, large-scale meetings or conference-style setups.

Where Madikwe excels is in incentive travel, leadership breakaways and strategic retreats. The setting naturally encourages perspective, clear thinking and meaningful conversation – away from daily distractions. Time spent together on safari, around shared meals and in relaxed environments often leads to stronger alignment, deeper connection and more productive dialogue than a boardroom setting.

This makes Madikwe particularly well suited to senior leadership teams, incentive groups and purpose-led organisations looking to reward, reconnect or reset, rather than run structured agendas.

Lelapa Camp does welcome families, so children may be present, particularly in shared and communal areas.

That said, the camp is designed to balance privacy and sociability. The suites are secluded and private, with features such as plunge pools and outdoor decks that create a quiet, romantic retreat for couples. There are also several calm spaces throughout the camp.

Lelapa has a naturally social atmosphere, which many couples enjoy for its warmth and energy. Guests who value a mix of privacy and gentle social interaction often find this adds to the experience.

If complete solitude is your priority, Kopano, Dithaba or Elela Villa may be better suited. Lelapa’s appeal lies in offering both privacy and connection, allowing guests to choose how they engage.

Honeymoon couples are often looking for space to simply be, without having to plan, organise or think too much – and Madikwe Safari Lodge delivers exactly that.

It offers privacy and romance in a wild, natural setting, where days unfold at an easy pace and everything is taken care of. As a malaria-free Big Five reserve, it’s also a reassuring and accessible introduction to Africa, making it an especially memorable place to begin your safari journey together.

At Madikwe Safari Lodge, the essentials that matter most on a honeymoon come together seamlessly: beautiful accommodation, exceptional scenery, thoughtful hospitality, excellent food and time to reconnect. There’s enough structure to feel held, and enough freedom to feel completely your own.

The result is a honeymoon that feels effortless, intimate and unforgettable, without needing to be overdesigned or overprogrammed.

Yes. Safari naturally brings people together, and many solo travellers find it easy to connect with others during their stay.

Game drives are shared experiences, with up to eight guests per vehicle, often from different parts of the world. Spending time together in the bush, sharing sightings and stories, creates an easy, unforced way to get to know people.

Meals and time spent in shared spaces also encourage conversation, while still allowing for privacy when you want it. Many guests leave with meaningful connections, and in some cases, friendships that last well beyond the safari for years to come.

Yes, WiFi is available throughout Madikwe Safari Lodge, particularly in main lodge and communal areas.

Connectivity is suitable for emails, messaging and light work, but it’s worth noting that safari is a remote experience, and bandwidth may be limited at times. WiFi coverage in suites can vary depending on location and conditions.

For most guests, the setup allows them to stay connected when needed, while still encouraging a natural step away from constant screen time.

Absolutely. We love a good surprise, and over the years we’ve helped plan many proposals – each one different, personal and true to the couple behind it.

Whether you’re imagining something quietly intimate or subtly celebratory, the team can help you shape a moment that feels authentic to who you are and what you’re celebrating, rather than something staged or generic. From choosing the right setting to timing it just right within the flow of safari, we’ll guide you gently behind the scenes.

To keep the surprise intact and the experience seamless, we recommend sharing your plans with the reservations team in advance so we can help bring it together in a way that feels effortless and unforgettable.

The honeymoon promotion applies to stays within 12 months of your wedding date.

To qualify, we simply ask for a copy of your marriage certificate at the time of booking or before arrival. The reservations team will confirm eligibility and ensure the honeymoon benefits are applied to your stay.

If you’re unsure whether your travel dates qualify, the team will be happy to advise.

In most cases, meals and activities are shared, which is part of the natural rhythm of safari and something many guests enjoy.

Shared game drives and communal dining often create easy, organic connections, while still allowing space and privacy when you want it. Couples can choose quieter tables or retreat to their suites, and solo travellers often appreciate the relaxed social atmosphere.

For guests seeking more intimacy, private meals can be arranged whenever you wish, subject to availability. The lodge is designed to offer balance – social when you want it to be, and private when you don’t – and the team is always happy to accommodate your preferences where possible.

Children of all ages are welcome at Madikwe Safari Lodge, but age restrictions apply to game drives for safety reasons.

In line with reserve regulations, children under 6 years are not permitted on shared game drives. Families travelling with younger children can either:

• book a private safari vehicle, which allows complete flexibility, or
• enjoy a shorter, tailored children’s safari experience close to the lodge with a guide trained in engaging young guests.

Children aged 6–11 may join normal game drives.

Children 12 years and older are treated as adults on safari and can join all standard drives.

Our guides are exceptionally experienced with families and take great care to ensure children feel safe, included, and excited – without compromising the comfort of other guests or the integrity of the wildlife experience.

Our safari vehicles are designed for comfort, stability and excellent visibility. Each row has individual bucket seats, giving guests enough space to sit comfortably with cameras, bags and personal items. There are pouches for phones, water bottles and binoculars so you can keep essentials close at hand.

In summer, the vehicles are fitted with canopies for shade, helping to soften the heat of the day. In winter, these canopies are removed to allow for clearer views and better photography, and we provide blankets, hot water bottles and ponchos to keep you warm on early morning and evening drives.

For your comfort and safety, we also provide:

• Bottled water on every drive
• Sunscreen and insect repellent
• Rain ponchos in wet weather
• A safe place to store cameras and small gear

We recommend bringing your own binoculars for the best experience, but your guide will always have a pair available to share if needed.

Our aim is to make the experience as comfortable and effortless as possible, so you can focus your full attention on the wildlife around you.

Our safari vehicles seat a maximum of six adults (two additional children may be accommodated at Lelapa Camp), with three rows of comfortable bucket seats designed to give everyone a window seat. This layout ensures that each guest has ample space, good visibility and room for cameras, bags and binoculars.

We manage seating carefully so that:

• every guest has a comfortable, individual seat
• the vehicle never feels crowded
• guides can engage properly with everyone on board

Families or groups travelling together are kept together on the same vehicle whenever possible.

Guests wanting complete privacy, flexibility, or additional space may request a private safari vehicle.

Each game drive is approximately three hours long, giving you enough time to explore different habitats, follow animal movements and enjoy unhurried sightings.

Game drives always follow the rhythm of first light and late afternoon, but exact times shift slightly between summer and winter to align with sunrise and sunset.

Morning Drive

• Departs at first light (earlier in summer, slightly later in winter)
• Returns mid-morning

This is when diurnal animals become active, predators often finish hunting, and the light is soft for photography.

Afternoon Drive

• Departs mid-afternoon
• Returns after sunset

This captures the cooling of the day, movement towards water, and the start of nocturnal activity.

Drive times may be adjusted slightly throughout the year, but the experience remains the same: a long, immersive morning drive and a long, atmospheric afternoon-to-evening drive.

Yes. For safety reasons, walking safaris are only offered to guests aged 16 years and older. This is a reserve-wide regulation that applies throughout Madikwe.

Walks take place close to camp or in carefully selected areas, and are always led by a fully qualified trails guide.

For guests aged 60 and older, Madikwe Game Reserve follows the North West Parks Board regulation requiring a doctor’s note confirming good physical health for participation. While the rule can feel counter-intuitive – many guests in their sixties and older are far fitter than people half their age – it is a formal safety requirement applied consistently across these Big Five walking areas.

Your guide will always make the final call on whether a walk is appropriate, taking into account fitness, mobility, weather, recent wildlife movement and overall safety.

Walking safaris are a wonderful complement to game drives: slower, more sensory, and focused on tracks, plants and the smaller details that bring the ecosystem to life.

Yes. Private safari vehicles are available on request and are recommended for guests who want complete flexibility on their drives.

A private vehicle gives you:

• Freedom to set your own pace – ideal for photographers, birders, or guests who like to spend longer at specific sightings.
• Family-friendly flexibility – shorter drives for young children, earlier returns to camp, or the ability to adapt the route around energy levels and interests.
• Privacy and comfort – your own guide, your own space, and a personalised experience built entirely around what you want to see and do.

Private vehicles are subject to availability and carry an additional fee.

If this is important for your stay, we recommend arranging it before arrival, especially during peak season.

Madikwe is one of South Africa’s great conservation success stories. Covering 75 000 hectares on the edge of the Kalahari, it lies in a rare transition zone where two ecosystems meet – creating an unusually rich mix of species and landscapes. The reserve is completely malaria-free, making it a safe and easy choice for families and travellers who prefer not to take prophylaxis.

Much of Madikwe’s wildlife was reintroduced through Operation Phoenix, one of the largest rewilding projects of its kind, which brought more than 8 000 animals back into the area. Today the reserve functions as a self-sustaining wilderness with thriving populations of elephant, lion, rhino and a range of arid-zone specialists not often seen elsewhere.

With strict vehicle limits, no off-roading, and a calm, respectful viewing culture, Madikwe offers a safari that feels unhurried, ethical and genuinely wild.

Madikwe’s landscape is shaped by the meeting of two worlds – the Kalahari and the bushveld – creating a mosaic of habitats that you won’t find in most other reserves. This transition zone supports remarkable biodiversity and gives each game drive a distinct sense of movement and variation.

You’ll encounter wide open plains, red-sand basins, rocky koppies, sweetgrass savannahs, and wooded drainage lines that draw animals throughout the day. These shifting habitats influence where animals feed, rest and move, making every drive a blend of new vantage points and unexpected sightings.

It’s a reserve of contrasts: open horizons one moment, sculpted hills the next, with pockets of woodland that come alive after rain. This diversity is one of the reasons Madikwe’s wildlife viewing feels so varied and rewarding.

Madikwe offers consistently rewarding game viewing, with strong populations of elephant, lion, both black and white rhino, buffalo, giraffe and a wide variety of plains game. These species are seen regularly and form the core of the reserve’s wildlife experience.

Leopards are present but naturally elusive, and sightings tend to be less frequent than in more densely forested reserves. We describe them as special rather than predictable.

Madikwe is also known for a fascinating mix of arid-zone species that suit its Kalahari influence. Brown hyena, aardwolf, bat-eared fox and certain raptors are genuine highlights – species that many safari travellers rarely encounter elsewhere.

African wild dog and cheetah are well established in the reserve. While they are not “rare” in South Africa, Madikwe’s open terrain and manageable vehicle pressure make sightings particularly clear, calm and memorable.

Birdlife is excellent year-round, with seasonal influxes and a strong variety influenced by the reserve’s diverse habitats.

African wild dogs are one of the rarest carnivores in Africa, with fewer than 7,000 remaining in the wild. Seeing them anywhere is a privilege – but Madikwe offers conditions that make encounters particularly rewarding.

The reserve supports a healthy, stable population, and its open terrain allows packs to move across plains and red-sand areas in full view, making it easier to follow their natural behaviour than in densely wooded reserves.

Madikwe’s calm, respectful viewing culture also plays a role. Strict vehicle limits and no off-roading mean sightings are unhurried and unobtrusive, giving the dogs space to behave naturally and guests the time to observe their remarkable social dynamics.

They are not “exclusive” to Madikwe, but the combination of conservation success, suitable habitat and low sighting pressure makes this one of the best places to watch them.

Madikwe Game Reserve has a calm, respectful viewing culture designed to protect wildlife and ensure high-quality sightings. The reserve follows strict rules: no off-roading, and a limited number of vehicles allowed at each sighting. This keeps the experience unhurried and prevents animals from feeling pressured or surrounded.

Compared to some busier reserves, Madikwe feels quieter and more spacious, with far less vehicle traffic at key sightings. Guides communicate with one another subtly through earpieces to manage movements carefully, ensuring each vehicle has time without congestion.

For guests, this means you spend less time waiting for your turn and more time simply watching – the way a sighting is meant to feel.

Madikwe experiences a true range of seasons, shaped by both Kalahari heat and Highveld winters. This makes the climate an important factor when choosing when to travel.

Summer (October–March) is hot – often very hot – with daytime temperatures that can climb well above 35°C. Afternoon storms are common and bring the bush to life, but the warmth also attracts more insects, particularly around lights in the evenings. The landscape is green and vibrant, and wildlife concentrates around waterholes.

Winter (May–August) is dry, clear and cold. Early mornings and evenings can drop close to freezing, and game drives require layers, blankets, beanies and hot water bottles. Once the sun is up, the days are sunny and pleasant, with excellent visibility as the grasses thin out.

The transitional months (April, September) offer moderate temperatures and a good balance between scenery and comfort.

Madikwe is a strong year-round destination, but each season has a distinct feel — from the lush, storm-driven energy of summer to the crisp, clear openness of winter. The best time to visit depends on the type of atmosphere, comfort level and wildlife conditions you prefer. Wildlife sightings are good year-round.

Madikwe is fenced along its outer boundary, but there are no internal fences within the reserve. Once inside, wildlife moves freely across all 75,000 hectares, following natural patterns of feeding, hunting, migration and territory – exactly as they would in an open ecosystem.

The perimeter fence is there to protect surrounding communities and farmlands, not to restrict animal behaviour. Inside the reserve, predators maintain territories, elephant herds travel long distances between water sources, and arid-zone species thrive across a wide range of habitats.

For guests, the safari experience feels completely wild. The reserve is vast and ecologically diverse, and you never see or sense the outer fence while on drive. What you do benefit from is a well-managed, self-sustaining conservation system that keeps wildlife safe and supports long-term ecosystem health.

The easiest and most time-efficient way to reach Madikwe Safari Lodge is by scheduled flight with Federal Air from Johannesburg (OR Tambo International Airport).

Federal Air operates daily flights directly into Madikwe Game Reserve’s Eastern Airstrip, with a flight time of approximately 1 hour. On arrival, guests are met and transferred to the lodge by road (around 10 minutes), which is included.

For guests who prefer to travel by road, self-drive and private road transfers are also possible. Driving from Johannesburg takes approximately 4.5–5 hours, followed by a scenic drive through the reserve to the lodge.

At a glance:

• Fastest & easiest: Fly with Federal Air
• Most flexible: Self-drive or private road transfer
• Transfers from airstrip: Included

Yes. Our reservations team is happy to assist with booking your scheduled Federal Air flights to and from Madikwe Game Reserve.

Once your accommodation is confirmed, we can coordinate the flight booking on your behalf and ensure that timings align smoothly with your safari experience. Final flight details and confirmations will be shared with you before your trip.

Federal Air flights operate from a private terminal near OR Tambo International Airport, with a complimentary 7-minute shuttle transfer provided from/to the main terminal.

We will require a copy of your passport, as well as your incoming and/ or outgoing flight details.

Yes. Federal Air operates small charter aircraft, so strict luggage limits apply to ensure safety and proper weight distribution.

Each passenger may bring:

• 1 × 20kg checked bag
• 1 × 5kg hand luggage

Soft-sided luggage only is required (duffel-style with one flat side). Hard suitcases, large rigid bags, and items such as golf clubs or bulky sporting equipment cannot be accommodated on scheduled flights.

These guidelines help ensure safe operations, comfortable seating, and on-time departures for all passengers. If you’re unsure about your luggage or travelling with specialised items, our reservations team is happy to advise in advance.

Yes. Federal Air operates from a private terminal located near OR Tambo International Airport.

Guests flying with Federal Air do not depart from the main terminal, but a complimentary 10-minute shuttle service is provided from the main OR Tambo terminal to the Federal Air lounge. The transfer is quick and seamless, allowing for a smooth transition between commercial flights and your safari connection.

Clear instructions and timings are shared ahead of travel to ensure an easy arrival experience.

Yes.

If you are flying with Federal Air, you will be met on arrival at Madikwe Game Reserve’s Eastern Airstrip by a member of the Madikwe Safari Lodge team, who will transfer you to the lodge on a short complimentary drive (approximately 10 minutes).

If you are arriving into or departing from OR Tambo International Airport, Federal Air will have a representative to meet you off your inbound flight for your complimentary shuttle between the main airport terminal and their private departure lounge. Clear instructions are shared in advance to ensure a smooth connection between your international or domestic flight and your safari transfer.

Our reservations team is always on hand to assist with timing and logistics, ensuring your journey is seamless from arrival to departure.

Yes. Madikwe Safari Lodge is easily accessible by road and the drive is straightforward with the correct directions.

From Johannesburg, the journey takes approximately 4.5 to 5 hours, depending on your departure point. Once inside Madikwe Game Reserve, allow around 45 minutes to reach the lodge, travelling at the reserve speed limit of 40 km/h.

Guests who choose to self-drive are advised to:

• Enter the reserve via Molatedi Gate (recommended)
• Respect gate opening hours and wildlife right of way at all times
• Use Google Maps only to reach the reserve gate
• Avoid Waze, as it may route vehicles onto unsuitable roads
• Follow the lodge’s detailed directions for the final approach, as GPS navigation inside the reserve is unreliable

For those who prefer not to drive, private road transfers can be arranged with trusted third-party providers for a relaxed, door-to-door journey.

Yes. Madikwe Safari Lodge is easily accessible by road from Botswana, with the most common route via Gaborone and the Kopfontein / Tlokweng border post.

From Gaborone, the drive takes approximately 1 hour, depending on border crossing times. After entering South Africa, you will continue on the R49 and enter Madikwe Game Reserve via Abjaterskop Gate, before following the lodge’s in-reserve directions to reach Madikwe Safari Lodge.

Important to note:

• Please allow extra time for border formalities and ensure you have valid passports and vehicle documentation
• Gate hours for Madikwe Game Reserve must be respected
• Once inside the reserve, allow approximately 45 minutes to reach the lodge
• GPS navigation inside the reserve is unreliable
• Waze should not be used, as it may route vehicles onto unsuitable roads
• Follow the lodge’s official directions document carefully, especially once inside the reserve

When planning your journey to Madikwe Safari Lodge, timing is important to ensure a smooth arrival and to make the most of your safari experience.

If you are flying with Federal Air, we recommend aligning your international or domestic flights into and out of OR Tambo International Airport with the scheduled Federal Air departures. Allow sufficient connection time between flights to accommodate airport transfers and check-in at Federal Air’s private terminal.

If you are travelling by road, please plan your journey so that you arrive at the Madikwe Game Reserve gates during opening hours. Once inside the reserve, allow approximately 45 minutes to reach the lodge, travelling at a maximum speed of 40 km/h, with wildlife always having right of way.

Additional considerations:

• Game drives typically depart in the late afternoon; arriving earlier in the day allows time to settle in and potentially join a drive
• Late arrivals may miss scheduled activities, although the team will assist where possible
• Departures should be planned to allow for a relaxed check-out and onward travel, particularly when connecting to flights

Our reservations team is happy to assist with recommended timings and logistics to ensure your arrival and departure are as seamless as possible.

Yes. When entering Madikwe Game Reserve, all guests are required to sign in at the reserve gate as part of the standard access process.

In addition to your lodge accommodation rates, Madikwe Game Reserve charges a once-off entrance fee, as well as a nightly conservation levy. If you are arriving by air, a landing fee also applies. These fees support the ongoing conservation and community initiatives within the reserve.

Reserve fees may either be prepaid with your accommodation or added to your extras account and settled on departure.

Visit our Rates and Promos’ page for a schedule of fees

Madikwe Game Reserve gate hours are from 06:00 to 18:00.
All arrivals must take place within these hours. If you anticipate arriving later, this must be arranged in advance, as access after gate closing times is only permitted under special, pre-approved circumstances.

The honeymoon promotion applies to stays within 12 months of your wedding date.

To qualify, we simply ask for a copy of your marriage certificate at the time of booking or before arrival. The reservations team will confirm eligibility and ensure the honeymoon benefits are applied to your stay.

If you’re unsure whether your travel dates qualify, the team will be happy to advise.

To secure your booking, a 20% deposit is required. Once the deposit has been received, your reservation will be confirmed and held for you. Full booking details, including payment instructions, are provided with your confirmation.

The balance of payment is due 45 days prior to arrival. For bookings made within 45 days of arrival, full payment is required at the time of confirmation.

We understand that plans can change. Our cancellation and postponement policy is as follows:

• 46–61 days prior to arrival:
  10% cancellation fee or free postponement
  
• 31–45 days prior to arrival:
  50% cancellation fee or 30% postponement fee
  
• 14–30 days prior to arrival:
  75% cancellation fee or 50% postponement fee
  
• 13 days or less prior to arrival:
  100% cancellation fee applies

Different terms may apply for group bookings or special offers, and these will be clearly outlined at the time of confirmation.

Madikwe Safari Lodge is located within Madikwe Game Reserve, a protected conservation area. The conservation levy and entrance fees are charged by the reserve and contribute directly to:

• Wildlife conservation and anti-poaching efforts
  
• Reserve management and maintenance
  
• Community upliftment and environmental protection initiatives

These fees are charged separately from accommodation rates and are a vital part of preserving the reserve for future generations.

Rates include luxury accommodation, all meals, teas and coffees, a selection of house beverages (soft drinks, beer, wine, spirits), twice-daily game drives with FGASA-accredited guides, guided bush walks (age and fitness restrictions apply), transfers to and from Madikwe’s Eastern Airstrip, and WiFi in public areas.

Excluded items include spa treatments, laundry, premium beverages (premium brand spirits, cellar wines, and champagnes), gratuities, flights and transfers not specified, private safari vehicle hire, babysitting, and Madikwe Game Reserve entrance and conservation fees.

Yes. Group bookings (six rooms or more) may require additional deposits and have adjusted payment or cancellation terms. These are communicated clearly at the time of booking.

Madikwe runs an ongoing monitoring programme that helps conservation teams understand the health of the reserve and its wildlife.

You may see cheetahs or wild dogs with tracking collars – these are used for research and safety, not for tourism. Collars allow teams to track movements, monitor den sites, check on injured animals, and study how predators use different habitats. For species like brown hyena, aardwolf, and raptors, monitoring can include spoor surveys, camera traps, and nocturnal fieldwork.

Rangers also record every significant sighting during their drives: predator movements, breeding activity, unusual behaviours, and changes in herd dynamics. All this information feeds into the reserve’s annual management plans and helps ensure Madikwe remains a stable, self-sustaining ecosystem.

Cheetahs in Madikwe are sometimes fitted with tracking collars as part of the reserve’s long-term monitoring programme. These collars are not for tourism — they are strictly conservation tools.

Cheetahs are wide-ranging predators with large territories, and they can move long distances in a short period of time. Collars help conservation teams:

• Track territory use and dispersal
• Monitor cub survival and female movements
• Identify shifts in predator dynamics (especially with lions and wild dogs)
• Respond quickly if a cheetah is injured, trapped, or crosses a boundary
• Ensure genetic diversity by monitoring mating patterns and dispersal

The collars are lightweight, humane, and designed not to interfere with the animal’s behaviour. They are only fitted when necessary and removed when the monitoring cycle is complete.

For guests, seeing a collared cheetah is a reminder that you are in a working conservation area where wildlife management is active, thoughtful, and science-based. The goal is always the same: to support a healthy, self-sustaining cheetah population in the reserve.

The conservation levy directly funds the work required to keep Madikwe Game Reserve functioning as a protected wilderness.

Your levy supports:

• Anti-poaching units and surveillance
• Wildlife monitoring and research
• Habitat restoration, alien plant clearing, and controlled burns
• Fence-line patrols and boundary integrity
• Emergency interventions for injured animals
• Long-term species management (predators, arid-zone specialists, rhino)

Unlike government parks, Madikwe Game Reserve operates on a partnership model, where guest levies are essential to the reserve’s operating costs. Every guest contributes to the protection and long-term health of the ecosystem they come to experience.

For your convenience, your levies are added to your invoice for accommodation

Conservation work is driven by the needs of the reserve and its wildlife. Activities take place only when they are necessary and appropriate, ensuring that animal welfare and ecological integrity always come first.

All conservation activities are led by Madikwe Game Reserve authorities in collaboration with qualified veterinarians, ecologists, and conservation specialists. Madikwe Safari Lodge supports this work but does not operate conservation activities independently.

In certain cases, limited guest participation may be offered when conservation work is taking place during a stay and conditions allow. Participation is always carefully managed, optional, and subject to strict guidelines.

Animal welfare is the primary consideration in all conservation activities. Interventions are conducted by trained professionals following best-practice protocols, and guest involvement never alters or extends procedures.

Age restrictions apply to all conservation experiences and vary depending on the nature of the activity. Participation is guided by safety considerations, professional requirements, and reserve regulations.