Madikwe Game Reserve: A Malaria-Free Big Five Safari and Photographer’s Paradise
Madikwe Game Reserve, on South Africa’s border with Botswana in North West Province, is one of the country’s best-kept safari secrets. It’s malaria-free, home to the Big Five, and only a few hours’ drive from Johannesburg. Its lodges are among the best in the country for wildlife photography.
Why choose Madikwe Game Reserve?
- Malaria-free: ideal for families with young children and travellers who’d rather avoid antimalarials.
- Big Five: lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo and rhino all occur here.
- African wild dogs: Madikwe is one of the best places in South Africa to see these endangered predators.
- Exclusive game viewing: there are no self-drive day visitors, so only lodge guests explore the reserve.
- Diverse landscapes: open plains, rocky outcrops and the Marico River support many species and over 300 types of birds.
A brief history
Madikwe was created in the early 1990s on former farmland. One of Africa’s largest game translocation projects reintroduced thousands of animals. Today it’s a model of conservation that brings jobs and income to local communities.
Madikwe for photographers
Madikwe’s open terrain and quieter roads make it excellent for photography. Some lodges have sunken or underground hides at waterholes, which put you at eye level with drinking elephants and antelope just metres away. Lodges such as Jaci’s in the west of the reserve, overlooking the Marico River, are known for their photographic hides and dedicated photo-safari programmes.
Tips for photographers:
- Bring a 100–400mm lens or similar for game drives, and a wider lens for the hides.
- Ask your lodge about private vehicles for photographers.
- The dry winter months give clear light and animals concentrated at water.
Planning a dedicated trip? Read our guide to planning a photography safari.
When to visit Madikwe Game Reserve
- May to September: dry, sunny winter days with cold mornings and the best game viewing.
- October to April: hot, green summer with afternoon storms, baby animals and migrant birds.
Getting to Madikwe
Madikwe is about four to five hours’ drive from Johannesburg, or a short scheduled flight to the reserve’s airstrip. It combines easily with Johannesburg, Sun City and the Pilanesberg, a good fit for golfers on a Sun City golf break.
Madikwe Game Reserve FAQ
Is Madikwe really malaria-free?
Yes. Madikwe is in a malaria-free area of South Africa.
Can I self-drive in Madikwe?
No. Game drives are run by the lodges, which keeps the reserve exclusive and uncrowded.
Is Madikwe good for children?
Very. Several lodges welcome children and run dedicated children’s programmes. Being malaria-free is a big advantage for families.
How many nights should I stay?
Three nights gives you six game drives and a good chance of seeing the Big Five and wild dogs.
Explore more safari and wildlife guides, or contact us to book a Madikwe safari.
