Madikwe Game Reserve

Once simply farmland, the region has been restored to his former natural environment and is one of the few game reserves in the world that is named such for its sustainable use of land that was formerly in poor condition.

Madikwe's diverse geology and range of habitats makes it currently one of South Africa's premier safari destinations, located conveniently against the Botswana border, only three hours drive from Pretoria and Johannesburg .

The Reserve is also a place of history and culture. It is here that the famous South African author Herman Charles Bosman taught, in Abjaterskop, which is located in the southwestern corner of the reserve and is open to visitors. Many explorers, traders, hunters, and others have passed through this region as well, including Sir Cornwallis Harris and Dr. David Livingstone. In addition, Batswana call this region home and their beautiful arts, jewelry and curios can be purchased as souvenirs of the trip.

Comprising 75,000 hectares of land just north of the small town of Groot-Marico and stretching up to the Botswana border, the Madikwe Game Reserve is indeed a game watchers' paradise. It offers travelers a chance to enjoy a view of untamed Africa, complete with all the major species one would expect to find, including elephants, lions, leopards, buffalo, rhinos (both white and black) and many species of plains antelope. The bird life is also diverse and interesting, with over 350 species noted in the region. It's unique location along the edges of the Kalahari also allows the chance to see many rare species where they occur naturally.

Exploring the Madikwe Reserve is simple, with day and night open vehicle trips. For the more active visitor or wildlife explorer, there are morning and afternoon bush walks that are ideal for bird watching as well as enjoying the varied terrain. Hikers can enjoy the open grasslands, plains, and the rock climbing among the mountains and outcroppings. With a plethora of lodges, guided tours to enjoy the wilderness, and the chance to get native made mementos, a trip to the Madikwe Game Reserve can be the experience of a lifetime.