Madikwe for a first safari

Madikwe is a good choice for a first safari.

Suitability: ★★★★★

Madikwe is a North West Province reserve created on former farmland and restocked with wildlife. It is run by North West Parks in partnership with local communities and the private sector, and visits are through private lodges.

Why Madikwe for a first safari?

• With the Big Five present, it delivers a classic first safari.
• 2–4 days are enough for a good experience.

What awaits you in Madikwe

• Malaria-free according to tourism sources
• Big Five plus African wild dog
• Access limited to lodge guests
• Mix of bushveld and hills
• Well suited to families with children

Wildlife you may encounter: lions, leopards, cheetahs, elephants, white rhino, black rhino, buffalo and giraffes.

Suggested time on the ground: 2 to 4 days. Located on the Botswana border in North West Province, reached by road from Johannesburg or by a short light-aircraft flight to the reserve airstrip.

Activities that fit

game drives and walking safaris.

When to go

The best period overall is July to September.

Winter is dry and sunny with nights near freezing; the best period for viewing around water.

Other destinations for a first safari

• Masai Mara Kenya
• Merzouga Morocco
• Ngorongoro Tanzania
• Pilanesberg South Africa
• Victoria Falls Zimbabwe
• Kruger South Africa

Full Madikwe guideBest safaris for a first safari

No trips are listed for this destination yet. Send a request and we will check with providers.

Sources: North West Parks Board · South African Tourism - Madikwe · Climates to Travel (1991-2020 normals) - South Africa (Mahikeng)
Figures are approximate averages and vary from year to year.