Madikwe Game Reserve
A malaria-free Big Five reserve on the Botswana border — ideal for families, with excellent wild dog populations and luxury lodges.
Destination
Type
Jun-Oct
Best Time
About Madikwe Game Reserve
Madikwe Game Reserve is one of South Africa's best-kept safari secrets and a leading malaria-free Big Five destination. This 75,000-hectare reserve on the Botswana border was the subject of one of the most ambitious wildlife translocation projects in history — Operation Phoenix — which relocated over 10,000 animals to establish a viable ecosystem in the 1990s.
Today Madikwe supports healthy populations of all the Big Five, plus one of South Africa's most successful wild dog packs. The reserve's malaria-free status and proximity to Johannesburg make it an exceptional choice for families with young children. A handful of upmarket lodges, several with dedicated children's programmes, offer twice-daily game drives in an exclusive setting where you'll rarely see another vehicle.
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Why Visit Madikwe Game Reserve
The top experiences that make Madikwe Game Reserve worth the journey.
Plan Your Visit to Madikwe Game Reserve
Everything you need to know before booking your Madikwe Game Reserve safari — from the ideal season to budget expectations and logistics.
Best Time to Visit Madikwe Game Reserve
May to September for dry season game viewing. Madikwe is semi-arid, making dry season concentrations particularly dramatic. Summer (Oct-Mar) is hot but offers green landscapes and baby animals.
What It Costs
Mid-range to luxury only — no self-drive. All-inclusive lodge rates from $250-1,500 per person per night including game drives, meals, and park fees. A 2-3 night Madikwe stay costs $600-4,000+ per person.
Getting There
3.5-4 hours by road from Johannesburg. Chartered flights available to the park's airstrip. Located on the Botswana border near Gaborone.
Destinations Near Madikwe Game Reserve
Combine Madikwe Game Reserve with these nearby destinations for a multi-stop safari itinerary.
Frequently Asked Questions About Madikwe Game Reserve
What is the best time to visit Madikwe Game Reserve?
May to September for dry season game viewing. Madikwe is semi-arid, making dry season concentrations particularly dramatic. Summer (Oct-Mar) is hot but offers green landscapes and baby animals.
How do I get to Madikwe Game Reserve?
3.5-4 hours by road from Johannesburg. Chartered flights available to the park's airstrip. Located on the Botswana border near Gaborone.
What wildlife can I see in Madikwe Game Reserve?
Madikwe Game Reserve is known for incredible wildlife viewing. Top experiences include: Malaria-free Big Five area, Excellent wild dog population, Family-friendly lodges, Close to Johannesburg (4hrs). The specific species you'll encounter depend on the season and exact location within Madikwe Game Reserve.
How much does a Madikwe Game Reserve safari cost?
Mid-range to luxury only — no self-drive. All-inclusive lodge rates from $250-1,500 per person per night including game drives, meals, and park fees. A 2-3 night Madikwe stay costs $600-4,000+ per person.
