Madikwe’s wooded hills give way to savannah and Kalahari plains, roamed by all of the Big Five and countless other mammals. Look up and you will see hundreds of resident and migrant birds gracing its skies. Coupled with the reserve being malaria-free, this all makes for a special place to explore.

While the luxury of Madikwe Safari Lodge lies in having direct access to some of South Africa’s best Big Five safari experiences, it is also the pleasure of coming back to thoughtful comforts, warm hospitality, and excellent meals after several hours in the bush that defines five-star stays here. The Madikwe brand of luxury comes standard, and what sets each of its retreats apart is its unique feel – appealing to different travelers.

Lelapa Camp is a spacious, flexible camp suited to families, couples, friends and solo travelers. Private suites and quiet nooks offer calm when you want it, while the communal pool and active waterhole create a natural gathering place – a hive of animal activity where elephants often wander within meters of your sun lounger. 

Best for babies, toddlers, young children, tweens, multi-age families. Lelapa means “family”, and it delivers exactly that: large suites (including 2-bedroom options), child-friendly spaces, a pool overlooking the reserve, plenty of places to play, and a calm energy that works for every age. Child-minding services, family-friendly game drives, and the flexibility of children’s meals ensure a relaxed and enjoyable stay for families. (madikweSL)