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Madikwe River Lodge

Our rating

8/10

Price guide

Highlights

- Traditional lodge in riverside setting
- Secluded wildlife reserve
- Malaria free area
- Spacious accommodation and pool

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Overview

Madikwe River Lodge is a comfortable traditional safari lodge in a lovely riverside setting within Madikwe Game Reserve, in the northwest province of South Africa. This rustic property sits in the heart of the reserve on the banks of the Groot Marico River, and offers friendly service along with 16 well-appointed thatched chalets, a restaurant, lounge, and bar, and a swimming pool. Located near the Botswana border, Madikwe is one of South Africa’s most remote game reserves, with a diverse terrain spanning grassy plains, arid scrubland, and verdant woodland. The area is home to the famed big 5 (cheetah, lion, leopard, rhino, elephant, and Cape buffalo) along with good numbers of wild dog, and prolific birdlife. A good midrange option, Madikwe River Lodge has the additional benefit of being located in a non-malarial area, which will appeal to travellers looking to avoid anti-malarial medication.

Communal areas include a spacious and open fronted dining, lounge and bar area beneath an airy thatched roof. There is a relaxing outdoor boma, where alfresco breakfasts and dinners are frequently served, and a refreshing swimming pool with loungers.

Activities include morning and afternoon game drives, along with bird watching. Guided walks are available on request.

Accommodation comprises 16 generous split-level chalets with thatched roofs and terracotta floors, and featuring traditional African furnishings and artworks. Each chalet has a double or twin beds, a comfortable lounge area, and an ensuite bathroom with basin, WC and an indulgent outdoor shower. All rooms have a minibar and hot drink facilities, plus ceiling fans. Outside is a private wooden deck with lovely views of the river and surrounding forest.

Children of all ages are extremely welcome at Madikwe River Lodge. Several family units are available which sleep up to four guests in a double or twin beds, with an additional sofa-bed provided in the lounge area. The management organises morning ‘kiddy game drives’ for younger guests, with parents welcome to join in, whilst the swimming pool will appeal to travellers of all ages. The surrounding area’s malaria free status makes Madikwe a great option for families with babies and younger children.

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What customers are saying after travelling with Tourdust

Average Rating

based on 536 reviews

(5.00/5)

  • Thank you, we had an absolute wonderful time, and everything was well-planned and as described. Carla was crying on the day of our departure from Ants Nest, she didn’t want to go home and for it all to end, and when I asked how much longer she would want to stay, she responded “four weeks”

    MissingLars B reviewing Best of South Africa for Families on 01 March 2024

  • It was certainly a holiday of a lifetime for us and we loved every minute!! The standard and location of each accommodation was excellent, as was the variety of each different accommodation type. Our schedule was perfect and we managed to achieve everything on our to-do task list. Your documents were also really helpful, as were the driving directions. We all thank you for making this such a wonderful holiday. Happy to leave a review publicly if you point me the right way. Best Steve

    MissingStephen H reviewing Classic Garden Route & Eastern Cape Safari on 01 September 2023

  • Hi Lisa, We had a fabulous time thank you. The accommodation and other ideation were all terrific - that’s so much for your help. The apartment in Cape Town was particularly good - we would never have found that: Boschendal was great as well and game lodge was superb. Thanks again, Alistair

    MissingAlistair A reviewing Cape Town, Garden Route and Kruger on 28 April 2023

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