Madikwe Game Reserve
Madikwe Game Reserve, a unique ecosystem
Madikwe is one of the largest reserves in South Africa – 75 000ha of pristine, malaria-free bushveld located in the North West province, just a four-and-a-half-hour drive from Johannesburg or Pretoria.
The reserve is well known for its abundant wildlife (including the "Madikwe Top 10") and diversity of habitats, ranging from the perennial Marico River, to its large open plains, woodlands, steep cliffs and boulder-strewn koppies, to the Dwarsberg mountains that stretch across the southern border.
All private guest lodges, including Rhulani, offer visitors a unique and personalised bush adventure, going the extra mile to ensure their Madikwe memories last for years. There are no day-visitor facilities and the reserve is open only to those who have made a booking at one of the lodges, which ensures that all guests are able to enjoy an exclusive safari experience.
Big 5 & The Magnificent Seven
During your stay you may have the chance to observe the so-called "Big 5".
The term "big five game" was coined by big-game hunters and refers to the five most difficult animals in Africa to hunt on foot. This also means you have to be careful with these animals, be it at the lodge or on a game drive. Enjoy watching these animals, but avoid provoking these animals with hisses, shouts or quick movements.
Thanks to our excellent rangers at Rhulani, you will maybe be lucky to tick off the ‘Magnificent Seven’. In addition to the Big 5, these include the Wild dog and Cheetah.
Madikwe has the distinction of being one of the few game reserves in the world to be proclaimed purely on these grounds. It is run as a joint venture between the North West Parks and Tourism Board, the private sector and local communities. The success of this approach has made Madikwe the role model for similar ventures elsewhere in South Africa.
Thousands of healthy animals have been released into the reserve, including elephant, rhino, buffalo, lion, cheetah, African wild dog (Madikwe is the first fenced reserve where wild dog were released), spotted hyena, giraffe, zebra and many species of antelope and herbivores. Leopards were already on the land before it was fenced off.
Madikwe also boasts an incredible 350 bird species, making the reserve a paradise for any enthusiastic birdwatcher.
Animal Guide
Do you want to know what mammals, bird species and reptiles you might be lucky enough to see in Madikwe Game Reserve?
