Rothwell Rose

Jamala Madikwe, Royal Safari Lodge, is as exclusive and luxurious as you could imagine. Everywhere you look the décor is elegant and tasteful, and with only 5 suites guests are ensured a really personal and attentive level of service. The main part of the lodge consists of a spacious and comfortable lounge and library, with a big open fireplace for those chilly evenings in winter. There’s also the dining room, boma and star deck, and the watchtower providing the perfect spot for looking out over the bush, or enjoying a romantic private dinner for two. Also in front of the lodge is the swimming pool where you can cool off in the heat of the day whilst watching the wildlife doing the same at the watering hole before you.

Each of the five individual safari villas looks out onto the waterhole and open savannah. They have separate lounge areas with fireplaces, a dining area for in-room dinners, outdoor deck and private plunge pool, spacious dressing room, bathroom and outdoor shower area. If you feel like some extra pampering there is also a wonderful spa and even a small gymnasium at the lodge for those looking to burn off some energy. Days are made up of thrilling morning and evening game drives and devouring delicious meals made by award winning chef Nico Verster.

Jamala Royal Madikwe Safari Lodge is situated in the 75,000 hectare malaria-free Madikwe Game Reserve. This is on the north-western border of South Africa and Botswana, one of the most prolific wildlife areas in the country. The wild terrain includes some beautiful landscapes of open plains, rocky peaks and dense bushveld. The Madikwe is home to the Big 5 and countless other species, with a particularly successful African wild dog reintroduction programme being a big draw for visitors as well. Jamala Madikwe itself is situated in one of the most beautiful areas of the reserve, right next to the most active watering hole imaginable. Guests often find themselves reluctant to head out on game drives each day as there is so much action going on with the wildlife right in front of the camp.

Unlike so many other lodges, Jamala is owner-managed and run and Rodney and Nico can be relied upon to make your stay absolutely unforgettable. A wonderful souvenir to take home is Nico’s incredible Jamala Madikwe Cookbook, Savannah to Sea. Jamala counts amongst our absolute favourite lodges though because of the wonderful ‘armchair safaris’ you can enjoy there. Simply relax in comfort on the deck, drink in hand, and watch as the wildlife comes to you.

Check in time: 2pm. Check out time: 11am

Madikwe Game Reserve is Malaria free.

The lodge is reached by a 4.5hr road transfer from Johannesburg or a 45 minute charter flight.

Jamala Madikwe is fully inclusive. Rates include accommodation, all meals as prepared by the award winning Chefs, selected drinks including a selection of house wines, teas and coffee, early morning and evening game drives, transfer to and from the lodge to the landing strip. Rates exclude premium rated wines, spirits and imported champagnes. Madikwe Game Reserve entry fees and daily conservation fees, laundry, spa treatments, all curio shop purchases.

Jamala Madikwe is primarily an adult-only loge although children under 16 can be accommodated by special arrangement. Guests travelling with an under 16 must book a private vehicle in advance.

Morning and evening game drives

Boma and stardeck dinners

Birding

Stargazing

Jamala Madikwe

Facilities at Jamala Madikwe

When to go to Jamala Madikwe