Madikwe on a budget

Madikwe is not the first choice on a budget; other destinations may suit you better.

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 on a budget?

• Budget options are relatively limited here.
• Travelling by road instead of flying in keeps costs down.

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 birdwatching.

When to go

The best period overall is July to September. For quieter months and often better value, try May and November.

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

Other destinations on a budget

• Kruger South Africa
• Merzouga Morocco
• Addo South Africa
• Pilanesberg South Africa
• Tarangire Tanzania
• Akagera Rwanda

Full Madikwe guideBest safaris on a budget

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.