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18 February 2021

The 5 best luxury lodges in Madikwe, South Africa

Here, we’ve picked a few of our favourite luxury properties in Madikwe Game Reserve.

This is not an easy task to do, as there are so many to choose from, so the properties listed below are just a few of our favourites! They focus on Tuningi, the three luxury lodges that make up Madikwe Safari Lodge, and then Morukuru, which comprise of three exclusive-use houses. If you want to discuss the best lodge in the Madikwe Game Reserve for you and your preferences, you can give us a call or send us a message on our Yellow Zebra Contact Page.

1. Tuningi Safari Lodge in Madikwe

Bar in Tuningi, Madikwe Game Reserve
Tuningi Safari Lodge suite, Madikwe

This is one of Madikwe’s luxury lodges located in the western section of the Madikwe Hills. With only four luxury suites and two-family suites, Tuningi Safari Lodge delivers an intimate and personalised safari experience. The main area of the lodge is situated under a canopy of trees, and it includes a deck overlooking a waterhole. An added touch is the ground-level bunker, where you can spend your downtime bird watching or waiting for wildlife to come and drink at the waterhole – all at eye level! This is the perfect spot if you’re seeking a luxurious, exclusive family safari.

What lodges make up Madikwe Safari Lodge?

Madikwe Safari Lodge is made up of three different lodges that neighbour each other on the slopes of a mountainside called:

  • Lelapa lodge
  • Kopano lodge
  • Dithaba lodge

2. Lelapa Safari Lodge at Madikwe

Bathroom at Lelapa Lodge, Madikwe
Lelapa, Madikwe Safari Lodge

Lelapa is the perfect lodge in Madikwe for a family, as it is child-friendly, and children of all ages are welcome. This lodge is entirely focused on ensuring each family is as happy as can be. With a phenomenal Mack & Madi children’s programme that includes a fully equipped kids’ learning centre, Lelapa really does cater well for the youngsters! All 12 luxury suites come with a private plunge pool as well as a breath-taking view over the Madikwe reserve. The added touch of a milkshake stop during game drives makes all children super-excited! An all-time favourite family-friendly lodge!

3. Kopano Safari Lodge at Madikwe

Bathroom at Kopano Lodge, Madikwe
Kopano Lodge in Madikwe Game Reserve

Offering just four sumptuous suites, Kopano is ideal for couples, honeymooners, or exclusive use. This is a luxurious, intimate lodge providing accommodation for travellers aged 16 and over. The property’s latest addition is a brand-new firepit with an incredible view over the reserve. There’s no better spot to enjoy some stargazing whilst sitting around a campfire. If you’re looking for an exclusive and sophisticated safari, look no further than Kopano!

4. Madikwe Safari Lodge Dithaba

Bed in Dithaba Lodge, Madikwe
Views at Dibatha Lodge, Madikwe

The lodge, Dithaba, also has only four suites, and each boasts a private plunge pool. Dithaba is situated high up on the mountainside, providing some of the best views of the Madikwe reserve! It’s perfect for solos or couples – alternatively, you can book all four suites, so it’s great for groups too!

5. Morukuru lodge in Madikwe Game Reserve

Morukuru Lodge at Madikwe
Bedroom at Morukuru Lodge, Madikwe

Morukuru offers three exclusive-use houses, each accommodating a different group size. Their names are Owner’s House, Farm House, and River House. Located on their own private reserve within Madikwe, the houses offer the most exclusive safari in the Madikwe Game Reserve. Every home comes with its own private chef, guide, tracker, and hosts. Your daily schedule is designed entirely at your discretion. Treat this as your home away from home, but with the addition of safari. In our opinion, Morukuru has one of the finest sections of the reserve, with the added bonus of its own private section – you simply couldn’t get more exclusivity and flexibility than here at Morukuru!

To sum up, we are always blown away by the high standards of accommodation types, styles, and levels of luxury that Madikwe Game Reserve has to offer! A wide range to choose from and a truly beautiful reserve in which to go on safari. To find out more details about the Madikwe properties or to discuss which option may be right for you, please contact one of the Southern Africa safari experts here at Yellow Zebra. We would be more than happy to assist you!

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