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Jonty

Eve

Kristin

4.9 out of 5 stars Average guest rating

About Etali Safari Lodge

For reasonably priced luxury, convenience and surefire game viewing, Etali is a sensible safari option. A scenic three and a half hour drive from Johannesburg, South Africa, or sixty minute flight, it's easily accessible from the city. This region is dominated by acacia woodland and supports over 60 mammal species and 300 species of birds. From the comfort of camp, overlook the year-round waterhole that draws dozens of species per day and is especially abundant from September through November. Genuine warmth, delicious home cooked meals and the well-prepared Etali staff, who are willing to entertain, educate and oversee children, make this a perfect holiday for families.

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From $930 person/night

Lodge

8 Rooms

Madikwe, South Africa

4 Etali Safari Lodge madikwe south africa 5

5 Etali Safari Lodge madikwe south africa 4

What you'll love

Elephants love to drink out of the plunge pools here so don't be surprised if you wake in the morning to find a giant grey pachyderm at your deck!

Insiders tip

This is one of the few lodges in Madikwe that uses trackers and guides on their safari vehicles ensuring you don't miss a single bit of the wildlife action.

Something to think about

Although this lodge is family friendly and there are definitely options to keep the kids entertained, we feel it might be slightly better suited to adults.

The property

The axis of camp revolves around the waterhole within view of the main area deck - dozens of species can be clocked in just one lazy afternoon lounging in the shade. The infinity pool occasionally attracts thirsty elephants for some unscheduled between-activity entertainment. Outdoor and indoor dining areas, a boma where cultural evenings and barbecues occur by the soft glow of lanterns, ensure mealtimes are always a novel experience. Rejuvenate and relax at the outdoor gym or the spa with its host of treatments including a Thlakanya treatment - a 2-hour steam, scrub, facial and full-body massage, or a special skin treatment for teenagers.

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The rooms

Enjoy the ultimate in privacy and intimacy in one of the eight luxury suites, including two family rooms. Three suites boast views of the waterhole, while the others are each appointed with their own unique bush perspective. The thatched roofed rooms have ample double beds, a fireplace, large sliding glass doors and soft, natural decor. An antique bathtub, indoor and outdoor shower and double basin give each room a spacious, luxurious feel. But the cherry on top: the refreshing plunge pool on your deck that doubles as a heated whirlpool.

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Activities

Game Drives

Walking safari

Night Drives

Bush Walks

Show all activities

Twice daily game drives or guided walks booked a day at Etali. Each group is appointed a guide and a tracker who will organise, personalise and synthesise an experience in the bush. Sunsets are always a cause for celebration - delicious snacks and special cocktails appear whenever and wherever the moment dictates. Families can rest assured children will have plenty to do between activities - from the infinity pool to the cupboard full of board games, to the craft projects conducted by energetic, more-than-willing staff.

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About Madikwe Game Reserve

Madikwe

It’s easily accessible, malaria-free and you’ll spot the Big Five – what’s not to love?

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Wildlife in Madikwe Game Reserve

Elephant

Abundant

Giraffe

Abundant

Hippo

Abundant

Black Rhino

Rare

White Rhino

Abundant

Lion

Abundant

Cheetah

Occasional

Leopard

Occasional

Hyena

Occasional

Wildebeest

Abundant

Buffalo

Abundant

Zebra

Abundant

Warthog

Abundant

Wild Dog

Occasional

Meerkat

Rare

Show all wildlife

Madikwe Game Reserve lies on a transition zone with a mix of Kalahari thornveld, denser bushveld and open savannah areas providing the perfect habitat for an abundance of species including the famed Big Five, with both black and white rhino present. The not-to-be-missed wildlife specials for this region include brown hyena, sable antelope and gemsbok. However, the real highlight for Madikwe is its resident pack of wild dogs, providing exciting moments on the hunt.

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