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Madikwe Game Reserve • Getting to Madikwe • Topography and landscape • Why visit Madikwe Game Reserve

Mammals of Madikwe • Birdlife in Madikwe  • Camera equipment • Activities • Where to stay

Madikwe Game Reserve, the fifth-largest game reserve in South Africa, is a paradise for photographers. Spanning over 75,000 hectares of bushveld, this expansive landscape is renowned for its abundant sightings of the Big Five and many other species, offering endless opportunities for making priceless memories and capturing stunning photos.

An evening game drive in the Madikwe Game Reserve

Located in the North West Province, near the Botswana border, the Madikwe Game Reserve boasts a diverse range of unforgettable African safari experiences. Covering hectares of lush bushveld and semi-arid Kalahari landscapes, the reserve is a malaria-free zone and offers a safe haven for health-conscious travellers.

The Madikwe Game Reserve is also home to the “Super Seven,” which includes the swift cheetah and the endangered African wild dog, in addition to the famous Big Five. Whether you’re travelling from Johannesburg or Pretoria, both of which are approximately a 4.5-hour drive away, Madikwe offers a variety of luxurious and community lodges to suit any preference and budget.

Cheetah are considered part of the special seven © Charl Stols

Reaching Madikwe is a breeze, with options to fly or drive. Daily flights from O.R. Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg, operated by Federal Airways, land at one of the reserve’s two airstrips in a swift 55-minute flight. Alternatively, road transfers from Johannesburg or Gaborone can be arranged in coordination with your chosen lodge. The drive offers scenic views and takes about 3.5 to 4.5 hours from Johannesburg, or just an hour from Gaborone.

Self-driving is a popular option among local guests, and the lodges are easily accessible regardless of how you choose to arrive. Your lodge can also assist with arranging private road transfers or charter flights, ensuring a seamless journey to this wildlife haven.

Madikwe Game Reserve boasts favourable weather conditions throughout the year. From October to April, the reserve enters the rainy season, characterised by occasional showers rather than prolonged rainfall. During this time, the days can become hot and humid, necessitating the use of sunblock and wide-brimmed hats. The nights may also turn chilly, so it is advisable to pack jackets and fluffy socks for added warmth.

Rainfall brings about a romanticism of its own, and when the rains fall, the earth transforms from a dull brown into a lush paradise of greenery, making it a gorgeous dappled background for close-up portraits of animals and fauna.

A young lion cub © Danielle Carstens

On the other hand, May to September marks the dry season, which brings colder and drier weather. Daytime temperatures can reach a comfortable 23 degrees, while nights can dip to a freezing 2 degrees. It is recommended to come prepared with suitable clothing to combat the cold during these months. Madikwe boasts a wide range of landscapes, including the Marico River to the east and the Dwarsberg Mountain Range to the south.

Additionally, the reserve features the Tshwene Tshwene Hills at its centre, with scattered inselbergs speckling the north-western plains towards Botswana. Visitors can also explore the Lotteringskop, located outside of the Madikwe Game Reserve near Molatedi Gate, and enjoy the breathtaking view of Abjaterskop Hill, which lies across the road from the Abjaterskop Gate.

The unique landscapes of Madikwe Game Reserve © Danielle Carstens

No matter the season, Madikwe Game Reserve offers an unforgettable experience for nature enthusiasts with its diverse wildlife and breathtaking landscapes.

At the reserve, you can expect to encounter a diverse range of rare species as well as your iconic African game. These include the Big Five (elephant, lion, buffalo, and leopard). Madikwe is also home to other animals we have come to love: giraffes, zebras, wildebeests, crocodiles, and hippos. Clowns of the animal kingdom, like monkeys and warthogs, keep visitors entertained with their antics. You can also frequently spot a range of antelope species such as springbok, impala, kudu, eland, waterbuck, wildebeest, steenbok, and blesbok.

Spotted Hyena © Danielle Carstens

Madikwe also houses several elusive or less commonly seen animals, like caracals, cheetahs, aardwolves, honey badgers, porcupines, and squirrels, to mention a few. Furthermore, with a bird population boasting over 250 different species, birdwatchers will have plenty to marvel at.

As wildlife photographers, there’s always something magical about photographing the African wild dog. This is another reason we love this reserve, as they are often spotted here. Despite being classified as an endangered species, the reserve is fortunate to have a significant population of African wild dogs. This is largely due to the success of Operation Phoenix, recognised globally as the largest and most triumphant reintroduction programme to date.

Wild dog puppies © Charl Stols

If you’re looking for an unforgettable way to immerse yourself in the rich culture of Africa, a cultural safari is a must. Take a journey to a rural village near the Madikwe Game Reserve and witness firsthand the hopes, traditions, and rich cultural heritage of the local community.

The stunning natural backdrop, combined with the vibrant local community, creates the perfect setting for exceptional photographic opportunities. It doesn’t matter if you’re a seasoned photographer or an enthusiastic beginner; this experience is unlike any other. You’ll walk away with a collection of cherished images that provide a unique opportunity to appreciate the natural wonders and lively communities that inhabit this remarkable region.

In Madikwe Game Reserve, the diversity of mammalian life is nothing short of extraordinary, with nearly 100 species inhabiting its expansive lands. From the elusive aardvark and the fascinating variety of nine different bat species to the playful bushbabies and nocturnal African civets, the reserve is a haven for wildlife photography enthusiasts.

Lion cubs in Madikwe National Park

Even beyond the “Super Seven,” which includes elephants, lions, wild dogs, and cheetahs, you’ll find bat-eared foxes, striped weasels, cape clawless otters, and an assortment of mongoose and mouse species.

For photographers, Madikwe is a paradise, especially in the early morning hours around 05:00 when the golden rays of the rising sun cast a magical glow over the sweeping plains teeming with wildlife. These first honeyed bright hours offer sensational sights—from impalas pronking, hyenas scurrying, lions lounging under trees, and cheetahs heading to waterholes—that are truly sensational.

Elephant at the waterhole © Danielle Carstens

While larger species like elephants and lions often command the photographic focus, there’s a wealth of smaller wonders to capture as well. From dung beetles perched on their mounds to the lush foliage hiding leopards, Madikwe offers endless opportunities to appreciate and document the intricacies of African wildlife in all its glory.

The birdlife in Madikwe Game Reserve does not disappoint, boasting a variety of more than 250 different bird species that occupy its varied habitats. From the iconic African ostriches striding across open fields to the elusive Secretary Birds and Bateleur Eagles soaring above, each species adds its own photographic mark to Madikwe’s rich ecological canvas. Home to a diverse collection of bird species, Madikwe accommodates both resident and migratory birds, creating a dynamic mix that changes with the seasons.

Of particular interest are the eight different eagle species that call the reserve home, along with the vibrant crimson-breasted shrike, the melodious red-billed hoopoe, the mysterious fiery-necked nightjar, and a range of seven owl species that inhabit the night. Rare sightings of peregrine falcons are also a thrill for birdwatchers. Among the resident birds, you’ll find various raptors like the african hawk-eagle and tawny eagle, along with iconic African species such as the lilac-breasted roller and the southern yellow-billed hornbill. During the migratory season, the reserve becomes a temporary sanctuary for a plethora of birds travelling from as far away as Europe and Asia.

Low key heron © Danielle Carstens

With its varied habitats—from the bushveld to the wetlands and rocky outcrops—Madikwe offers unique settings in which to appreciate and photograph these birds. Honestly, whether you’re an experienced birdwatcher or a casual observer, there’s always something to see.

Wildlife photographers thrive when there are so many unique and stunning photo opportunities available, so the exclusivity of the reserve may just be an exciting factor. Visitors are not permitted to enter the reserve for day trips, resulting in a significant reduction in crowds and traffic impacts.

This policy also enhances the chances of spotting wildlife. Within the reserve, you will find luxurious four- and five-star lodges and camps, offering both comfort and thrilling experiences. Families are welcome here, so bring the children along for unforgettable learning experiences.

Guests enjoying a game drive from the safari lodge in Madikwe Game Reserve

One thing that Madikwe is really known for is the ability photographers have to capture beautifully wide-angled shots. Whether you’re shooting with a mirrorless or DSLR, it is advisable to bring along zoom lenses such as 70 – 200mm, 24 – 70mm, or 24 – 105mm, but also something with a little more focal length, like 100 – 400mm, or even up to 600mm.

The reserve offers a wide range of opportunities and facilities specifically designed to cater to the needs of photographers. With its diverse and abundant wildlife, photographers can capture stunning images in picturesque landscapes. Photographers have access to prime locations for their photography, including strategically positioned hides and vantage points. Additionally, the reserve provides expert guides who are knowledgeable about wildlife behaviour and can assist photographers in getting the best shots.

Specialised Photographic Game Drive Vehicles

The accommodations at Madikwe Game Reserve are equipped with amenities that cater to the specific requirements of photographers, such as charging stations for camera equipment and comfortable editing spaces. Whether you are a professional wildlife photographer or a passionate enthusiast, Madikwe Game Reserve offers a welcoming environment to capture breathtaking images of the remarkable wildlife.

The open grasslands at Madikwe Game Reserve provide an ideal setting for nice, clean shooting. Photographers can enjoy plenty of opportunities around the dams to capture these magnificent animals in their tranquil moments. The wildlife in the reserve is known for its calm and relaxed nature, allowing for stunning still images.

There is no shortage of activities to keep visitors entertained and inspired. Like all the top game reserves, Madikwe offers its guests a range of safari options that include game drives in open 4×4 vehicles, night drives, cultural safaris, walking safaris, and photographic safaris.

Guests staying over at Jaci’s have the option to use their photographic vehicles (Specialised Photographic Vehicles, equipped with Gimpro Game Viewer mounts and photographic equipment) when opting for a photographic safari. Due to the fact that the air is so crisp and clean, photographers can also indulge in star trail photography. It cannot get more exciting than this!

Star Trails of Madikwe © Danielle Carstens

Let’s just mention something about the night safaris: not many reserves still offer this once-in-a-lifetime experience, so this is another activity that truly makes visiting the Madikwe worthwhile.

Another great way to explore this area is by taking a walking safari around the reserve and experiencing the wildlife in a much more hands-on way. Gorgeous views and the slower pace will allow for great landscape photographic opportunities.

Terrapin Hide at Jaci’s Safari Lodge

See the wildlife from a different perspective at the remarkable Terrapin Hide at Jaci’s Lodges, a playground for photographers seeking stunning wide-angle shots of wildlife at the water level. With the wildlife in such close proximity, even a 100-mm lens is capable of capturing the perfect shot.

Shooting in this hide is incredibly straightforward, requiring only your regular gear. Spanning approximately 10–15 metres, the hide is equipped with ample windows to shoot from. Additionally, Jaci’s provides custom camera mounts that are compatible with nearly all camera models, ensuring a seamless photography experience.

A terrapin photographed from Jaci’s Lodge’s © Sabine Stols

Madikwe Game Reserve offers a variety of accommodation options to suit every traveller’s needs, ranging from family-friendly safari lodges and romantic getaways to exclusive eco-experiences and conferencing facilities. Each type of lodging is tailored to provide a unique experience, whether it’s blending safari with spa treatments or offering cutting-edge conferencing amidst the wild beauty of the reserve.

However, for wildlife photographers, nothing truly beats the offerings at Jaci’s Lodge. Designed with photographers in mind, Jaci’s Lodges provides an unmatched experience tailored to all levels of photography enthusiasts, from amateur snappers to specialised wildlife professionals.

Their photographic equipment, from camera mounts in specialised 4x4s to an array of lenses and camera bodies, is carefully curated to help you capture once-in-a-lifetime images. For added convenience, Jaci’s even offers quality photographic equipment for rent, ensuring you have everything you need for the perfect shot, whether you’re on a day’s safari or planning to shoot throughout your stay.

In essence, choosing to stay at Jaci’s Lodges means stepping into a photographer’s haven, where every detail is orchestrated to make your photographic safari as enriching and fulfilling as possible.

Cheetah on the move © Danielle Carstens

With numerous remarkable features to highlight, Madikwe Game Reserve is an essential addition to your lifetime travel bucket list. In our opinion, it stands as one of the most underrated game reserves in our country, enhancing its exclusivity for those with a refined taste for exploration.

Wildlife photographers can feast their eyes on the wide array of wildlife and landscapes while capturing all the perfect moments they can boast about.