Madikwe Game Reserve

A world-renowned and exclusive Big 5 Wilderness Safari Destination

Madikwe Game Reserve

In the North-West province of South Africa close to the Botswana border, lies Madikwe Game Reserve. The reserve is a world-renowned and exclusive Big 5 wilderness safari destination which is malaria-free and easily accessible by road or air.

Jump on a flight from OR Tambo International Airport, or take a mere 3.5-hour drive from Johannesburg before arriving at this majestic reserve, and the diverse animals, birds, trees, and grasses who call it home. Close to the edge of the Kalahari Desert, and much larger than most other reserves, you can be assured of unparalleled game viewing experiences aplenty!

History of Madikwe

Formally established in 1991 by the South African government, 80 000-hectares of dusty and degraded farmland was earmarked for development as a wildlife sanctuary and tourist destination. The world’s biggest wildlife relocation ensued, moving in more than 8 000 animals including entire family herds of elephants, highly endangered African wild dogs, spotted hyena, buffalo, hippo, and lion.

The park’s success is in no small part due to the three-way venture which underpins it - a true collaboration between the North-West Parks and Tourism Board, the private sector, and local communities. So much so in fact, that it is used as a case study continent-wide on how such a partnership can not only work but thrive.

Flora and Fauna

Today, the reserve boasts the Big 5 (lion, buffalo, leopard, both white & black rhino and elephant), more than 60 mammal species, and well over 350 resident and migrant bird species - unsurprisingly given the 45 + plus tree species in the area. These include marulas, shepherd’s trees, bush willows, weeping wattles, and fig trees. The most endangered species in the reserve include cheetah, wild dog, not to mention the black and white rhino.

The reserve is made up of a myriad of habitats including many types of veld (mixed bushveld, Kalahari bushveld, arid sweet bushveld, and thornveld) and riverine thickets of the Groot Marico river. Plus, plains and cliffs of the Rant van Tweedepoort, Enselbergs, and the Dwarsberg mountain range make for stunning vistas and dramatic contrasts in scenery.

When to Visit Us

Madikwe is a wonderful destination year-round, however, the different seasons help to anticipate what to pack and expect. Regardless of the weather, our rangers will take you out on your daily safari.

October to April is our hot and rainy summer season. Scattered thunderstorms, lightning storms and roaring thunder with downpours, give relief from hot and sunny days. Expect an average of 31°C daily (88°F). Don’t forget sunscreen and hats to protect you from the African sun.

Winter (May to September) is generally sunny and temperate, with starry, chilly nights and occasional rain. You can bank on 22°C (72°F) in the daytime and 2°C (35.5°F) at night. The easiest way to manage the rising and cooling during the day is to layer up.

What you can Expect

The small, private and intimate Rockfig Lodge offers a wilderness experience that will allow you to create unforgettable memories. Unwind in luxury in our modern villas which are as comfortable as they are contemporary, and complete with all the amenities you need to feel at home. Whilst each unit has its own personality, all are carefully considered, expertly maintained, and best of all - designed around the bushveld that demands to be explored!

Rockfig Lodge

Rockfig is a small and intimate lodge nestled in the unspoilt wilderness, where you have the freedom to design your own unique safari experience. Book a Villa or book all 4, it’s your choice!