MAKANYANE SAFARI LODGE
Madikwe Game Reserve
South Africa

Malaria Free Safaris - Madikwe

A new luxurious and exclusive safari lodge, Makanyane is situated on private land within the magnificent 75,000 hectare malaria-free Madikwe Game Reserve - home to the Big 5 and a myriad of other animal and bird species. Makanyane, which lies hidden in lush riverside forest, offers unforgettable wildlife experiences, exquisite accommodation and cuisine as well as outstanding personal service.

Visit Makanyane Safari Lodge to experience the drama and mystery of Africa's vast natural history, exhilarating wildlife, ancient legends and rich cultural history and to relax and revitalise body and mind.

Camp Description

The lodge consists of a beautiful main building and eight stunning suites, which lie hidden in the lush forest, offering spectacular views over the tranquil Marico River. The lodge has accommodation for a maximum of sixteen guests, ensuring that each guest has privacy and individual attention.

Located on the edge of a ravine, Makanyane's dramatic main lodge overlooks a stream-filled waterhole shaded by a dense canopy of trees. Enormous ancient Leadwood trees in the lounge and the dining room support the sweeping thatch roof. The spacious lounge area has two rock fireplaces and opens out onto a wide wooden deck hanging over the ravine and waterhole below. On this wooden deck is the well stocked bar with its sweeping roof. The gracious dining room also opens onto the vast deck area, perfect for enjoying a meal under the trees while watching game drink below. The main lodge has a curio shop where you can browse for souvenirs, a library area and an extensive wine cellar.

Upstairs is the air-conditioned den with a viewing deck, the elevated position providing panoramic views of the grasslands.

The heated, secluded swimming pool is the ideal place to soak up the African sun, while enjoying the idyllic scenery.

Close to the main lodge is the boma, an open air dining area enclosed by bush, reeds and trees. The boma is the perfect place to enjoy dinner next to a blazing fire.

A stroll along the shady path winding through the riverine forest will bring you to your romantic and secluded suite. As in the main lodge, rich African textures abound, walls of natural rock and dried tree trunks merge with rough teak doors and contrast with the overhanging thatch. The glass walled bedroom suites allow uninterrupted views of the river and the surrounding bush.

The open-fronted lounge with its private sundeck is the perfect place to relax and enjoy the sights and sounds of the bush. The spectacular bathrooms have under-floor heating as well as indoor and outdoor showers.

The suites have fireplaces, overhead fans and are fully air-conditioned and heated. The rooms also have a telephone, hot beverage making facilities, mini safe and a bar fridge. Bathrobes, hairdryers, insect repellent, body and sun lotion, soap as well as shampoo and conditioner are all provided.

The well equipped gym and bush spa is just the place to work up an appetite, or to simply pamper yourself. Alternatively, treat yourself to massage or aromatherapy from Makanyane's onsite masseuse.

Game Viewing

To experience the vibrant bush life around you, allow yourself to be led through Madikwe's 75,000 hectare environment, either on foot or in an open vehicle.

Watch the wildlife, oblivious to your presence, from one of the bush hides overlooking a waterhole or facing plains that stretch to the horizon. You could even sleep out under the stars while nocturnal life continues around your secure, elevated deck.

Madikwe Game Reserve is South Africa's second largest game reserve and Makanyane is situated on 1,800 hectares of private ground within the reserve. The reserve is a joint venture embracing the North West Parks and Tourism Board, the private sector and local communities.

The species that populate Madikwe include lion, leopard, black rhino and white rhino as well as large herds of elephant and buffalo. The rare African wild dog (in the Tswana language, "Makanyane"), cheetah, spotted and brown hyena, giraffe, zebra and numerous antelope species also roam the reserve.

Over 340 bird species also make their home in Madikwe which sprawls across richly varied eco-zones, from rocky peaks, across open grasslands, to verdant valleys, each zone with its own distinctive inhabitants.

Read more about:

Madikwe Game Reserve