If you’re heading between Johannesburg and Gaborone, Madikwe River Lodge is just the place to hang up the car keys. Situated in the malaria-free Madikwe Game Reserve near the Botswanan border, you’d never guess that not so long ago, this region was little more than abandoned farmland.

With the Groot Marico River on your doorstep, Madikwe River Lodge offers a front-row seat to all the animal action. A conservation triumph, the surrounding wilderness is brimming with game, including African wild dogs and cheetah, which along with the Big Five, form the ‘Madikwe Super Seven’. We offer twice-daily game drives, guided bush walks, and more than enough quiet nooks to kick back and soak up the scenery.

At Madikwe River Lodge, we also welcome families with open arms, so bring the kids! Our accommodation options include well-equipped Deluxe River Chalets, Deluxe River Family Chalets and a Luxury River Chalet. With fireside boma dinners, bush breakfasts and an attentive team, there’s enough to keep everyone happy.

Madikwe Game Reserve Gate Times

Opening time: 06:00

Closing time: 18:00

All visitors arriving just after 18:00 will need to be escorted into the park by rangers

Late arrivals will not be accommodated due to security reasons

Child Policy

Children under the age of 6 are not permitted on safari activities. Where possible, family game drives will be arranged.

Babysitting services can be arranged at the lodge at an additional charge.

Children 0 – 5 years of age stay free of charge only when sharing with two full-paying adults.

Children 6 – 11 years of age pay 50% of the adult sharing rate when sharing with two full-paying adults.

Children 12 years and older occupying their own room pay full adult rate.

The adult rate applies when a child over 12 years old shares with one adult.