Madikwe

Jamala Madikwe

A boutique and uber-comfortable lodge overlooking a game-rich waterhole in Madikwe.
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4.9 out of 5 stars   Average guest rating
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or call us on: +1 (646) 542 0667
Our guests rate us excellent
4.9/5 (940 reviews)

About Jamala Madikwe

This intimate and service-focused lodge is set in a group of leadwood trees in the southeastern corner of the malaria-free Madikwe Game Reserve. Overlooking the plains and a bustling waterhole frequented by elephants, zebra, giraffes and rhinos, Jamala Madikwe will indulge you with safari drives that bring you face to face with wild dogs, lion, cheetah, buffalo and a host of other species, excellent birdwatching and award-winning cuisine.

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From $960 person/night

Lodge
5 Rooms

What you'll love

When the food is this good, breakfast, lunch and dinner become highlights just as much as the wildlife! Award-winning chef Nico Verster is at the helm at Jamala and the food is, quite simply, phenomenal.

Insiders tip

For the best views of the waterhole (and to escape for a quiet moment with your binos), our favourite spot is the elevated watchtower.

Something to think about

Some areas of lodge feel rather like a 'hotel' and the large buildings perhaps feel a little out of place in such a wild area - but it's certainly comfortable.

The property

Located beside a waterhole, Jamala's sumptuous, thatched-roof communal areas are intimate, with a relaxed atmosphere that lures you to sink into a deep chair. Large windows and wrap-around decking make the most of the views. The luxurious lounge and dining spaces are very comfortable with hanging chandeliers, upholstered furniture, African artwork and carved wooden sculptures. There is also a soothing wellness spa and, for the energetic, a well-equipped gym with unique bushveld views.

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The rooms

Accommodation is in just five freestanding villas, so if it's a peaceful romantic getaway you're after, this lodge is a great choice. Decorated in dark wood, neutral colours and luxurious textures, each villa has a private lounge and dining space, lush beds with mosquito-net drapes, a huge en-suite bathroom with his and hers basins, a shower and a tub. Outside is another shower and a private deck with an infinity pool, recliners and endless views.

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Activities

Game Drives
Walking safari
Birding

Expertly guided day and night game drives take you to the farthest reaches of the park in search of the abundant big and small wildlife species, including the famed Big Five and 300-plus bird species, found in this region. Relaxing on the communal deck with an ice-cold beer on what is affectionately known as the “Sofa Safari” provides some of the best moments of any stay.

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About Madikwe Game Reserve

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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

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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What our guests are saying

4.9 / 5
Based on 940 reviews
Hannah
Mar 2025 • 9 nights in South Africa
Everything went super smoothly and everyone was very helpful along the way!
Susan
Feb 2025 • 16 nights in Tanzania and Kenya
Annie was our travel consultant and she was excellent! She answered all questions in a timely manner and provided... Read more
Yuet
Feb 2025 • 6 nights in Tanzania
From her first email, Joana treated us as family. She asked thoughtful questions and offered responsive suggestions.... Read more
Guest
Feb 2025 • 11 nights in Tanzania
Jenna was great handling the lodging, and Bekim from Exito travel was great handling the flights. I would use... Read more
Ana
Feb 2025 • 12 nights in Tanzania
I mentioned this on the previous page.
Guest
Feb 2025 • 9 nights in Kenya
Annie Irankunda went to all lenghts and further to make my trip to Kenya lovely. She helped with all the things I... Read more
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