Game drives in the Madikwe Game Reserve are a beloved holiday treat for many South Africans and fortunate tourists visiting the best Africa has to offer. What is not to love?

Not many joys in life beat the feeling of experiencing an open-vehicle safari drive in big 5 territory. The fresh air, the scent of the acacias, the remarkable birdlife and mammals vocalising in the early morning or late afternoon. Witnessing the most spectacular sunrises and set sets. It honestly is paradise.

Game drives can be incredible, but you’ll never know just how much until you’ve gone on safari with the Madikwe Safari Lodge.

Here are some tips on how to get the most out of your experience.

Be Prepared

You can enjoy a game drive in just about any weather, but it’s best to take precautions. It’s more than likely that you’ll want to experience the reserve on a hot sunny day, but you never know when the weather might change.

Before venturing out into the Madikwe Game Reserve, it’s wise to have the following on hand:

  • Sunblock lotion
  • Sunglasses
  • Hat
  • Travel-size rain poncho

Binoculars are also a must, if you want to get a good look at an animal your guide points out in the distance. However, you’ll get closer to the big 5 at Madikwe than you will at many other reserves, as the landscape and rugged land cruisers allow for off-roading to afford our guests a closer look if the guide deems the situation is suitable (no stress for the animals or guests).

Naturally, keep your camera (or just your phone – on silent mode) on you to capture the memories.

As part of your stay at the Madikwe Safari Lodge, you can take in a morning or afternoon game drive in open vehicles that include drinks and snacks – one less thing for you to worry about on your step into the wild.

Your game drive is led by a FGASA-accredited game ranger, who can take you to see and learn more about the vast and varied animal life than you would expect to on your typical safari.

Find The Big Five… And More!

With the help of your knowledgeable guide, you stand a better chance of a close encounter with the more exciting residents of the reserve. If you think you’ll only get a glimpse of the famous Big Five, think again.

The Madikwe Game Reserve is home to the equally famous “Secret Seven”. These understated celebrities of the reserve include Aardvark, African Wild Cat, Civet, Large Spotted Genet, Pangolin, Porcupine and Serval.

Thanks to Madikwe’s local conservation efforts, the reserve also boasts the countries largest population of African Wild Dog, and a sizeable community of tagged and poacher-proofed Rhino.

Make Your Madikwe Game Drive A Family Learning Experience

You don’t even have to leave your luxury accommodations at the Madikwe Safari Lodge to learn about the fascinating animal life that lives within the reserve.

Drop your kids off at Lelapa Lodge’s Eco House or Safari Club, where they can play, craft, and learn more about the local wildlife through an interactive learning programme. By the end of your holiday, your kids may be able to teach you a thing or two about the Big Five, Secret Seven, and the rest of the Madikwe animal gang.

The Madikwe Game Reserve At Your Front Door

Your visit to the Madikwe Game Reserve should never feel like a chore – you’re on holiday after all!

So, why not relax and enjoy the stunning views over the game reserve from the tailored comforts of a luxury suite at the Madikwe Safari Lodge. While your kids are learning how to track animal footprints, you and your partner can enjoy a drink at the communal pool and watch the animals chilling at a nearby watering hole of their own. Or cuddle up on your suite’s private deck to watch the sun rise on the breath-taking beauty of the natural world at your doorstep.

Book a stay at the Madikwe Safari Lodge for a game drive experience you’ll never forget!