Where to Stay
Every captivating tailor-made itinerary needs a perfect base. Our team has handpicked this collection of properties to give you luxury options in styles to suit any adventure.
Madikwe and The Waterberg
One of South Africa’s largest game reserves, Madikwe Game Reserve is home to the Big Five and has a healthy African wild dog population.
Bordering Botswana to its north, Madikwe reserve is one of the best run in the country. Some 8,000 animals including lion, elephant, cheetah, rhino and buffalo were introduced to the reserve during one of the biggest wildlife translocation projects in the world, “Operation Noah” some 20 years ago and have flourished in this unique environment.
The Waterberg, identified as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve is also home to plenty of wildlife, boasts some impressive birdlife plus a fascinating history. Dominated by the rugged beauty of the Waterberg Mountain Range, this area was home to the San Bushmen for thousands of years, evidence of which can be seen at rock art sites throughout the area.
Why visit Madikwe and The Waterberg
- Excellent malaria-free game reserves, perfect for family friendly safari holidays
- Rich diversity of vegetation and terrain from open plains to riverine bush ensures a wide variety of game
- Accessible and easily combined with other highlights in South Africa and beyond
- Madikwe is great for the Big Five and The Waterberg has some of the best horse-riding in the country
Cape Town and the Kruger National Park
Holiday Idea
This holiday idea to South Africa can easily be extended or adapted to include a safari in the Madikwe and Waterberg game reserves, easily reached overland from Johannesburg.
Experiences
Tell us what you love doing and we’ll curate a journey that’s perfect for you.
Africa
Ant’s Hill Safari Lodge – The Ant Collection
Built on the edge of a cliff, Ant’s Hill Safari Lodge is a fantastic base for a range of different travellers and is part of The Ant Collection. With an open and friendly atmosphere, guests are…
South Africa
Lepogo Noka Camp
Nestled in the heart of Lapalala Game Reserve, atop a spectacular 100 foot rock face, lies Noka Camp. Overlooking the Palala River below, Noka Camp encourages complete tranquillity with unparalleled comfort, whilst being a fantastic base…
South Africa
Mhondoro Safari Lodge and Villa
Nestled within Welgevonden Game Reserve, Mhondoro Safari Lodge & Villa is a five-star, private safari lodge and villa in the Waterberg district.
Meet our experts
A passion for travel runs right through every one of our experts - meaning they're always ready with first-hand insight about their specialist countries.
Illona Cross
Born in South Africa, I spent a decade working as a ranger, guide and lodge manager in the African bush. That experience taught me the value of well-paced itineraries, trusted local partners and the power of small details – what turns a good trip into a great one. I ask the right questions, listen closely and bring a level of insight that only comes from years in the field.
Talk with our experts
- 01285 880 980
Chris Johnston
I have spent nearly 30 years exploring Africa, from leading trips across the continent to crafting tailor made journeys backed by deep local insight. Named a Condé Nast Traveller Specialist for Madagascar, Democratic Republic of Congo and Rwanda, I’ve worked with the BBC and National Geographic throughout Eastern, Southern and Central Africa.
Talk with our experts
- 01285 880 980
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