Just like that, another year has gone by. I can't believe how quickly the years are passing. This year has gone by in the blink of an eye. Leading up to my final safari of the year, it has allowed me to process and think back to the incredible moments I had on safari this year and the experiences I have been able to share with my guests.
My last safari for the year takes me back to Nkurru Lodge in Madikwe. I absolutely love this destination, not only do we have exclusive use of the lodge, but it really feels like home. With such a productive waterhole in front of camp, the days are often spent relaxing and watching an abundance of wildlife come down to drink.
The Reserve itself is 75 000 hectares, which is a massive piece of land for wildlife. With such a vast expanse of land comes an abundance of wildlife and diversity in landscape.
Today, Madikwe Game Reserve is the fifth largest game reserve and is also one of the lesser- known parks in South Africa. This honestly makes it a hidden gem as it is regarded as one of the best conservation areas in Africa.
As I had mentioned, Madikwe, with its diverse landscapes and abundance of animals, is a special destination for any safari enthusiast. The park is suited to both first time visitors as well as more seasoned aficionados. The large wilderness area presented ensures a changing background for game viewing and scenic photography.
I must say that I have honestly captured some of my favorite wildlife moments in Madikwe Private Game Reserve.
A typical day on safari in Madikwe Private Game Reserve
An early morning wakeup call (5/5:30am) will start your day. You will then meet in the main lodge to enjoy a coffee and a small bite to eat. Your guide will then round up the group and you will depart on your morning safari. This usually lasts about three to four hours depending on the wildlife activity. Depending on what the group would like to do, a safari coffee stop is an option to warm up a bit and stretch the legs before making your way back to the lodge.
Upon arrival at the lodge, most lodges will serve a delicious brunch. Thereafter you will have a bit of free time to either nap or make use of the lodge facilities such as the pool or spa. Some lodges will also offer a walking safari between the two game drives.
At around 3:30, high tea will be served in the main area. After a refreshing drink and tasty snack, you will jump back into the safari vehicle and enjoy another three to four hour safari in the wilds of Madikwe. Depending on what the group would like to do, a safari sundowner will be served as the African sun sets. This is a great opportunity to take in the areas tranquillity and stretch the legs a bit before making your way back to the lodge.
Upon arrival at the lodge, you will have some time to freshen up in the room before making your way through to dinner. Lodges dinner setups vary but most setups will be in an area called a boma and your local guide may or may not join you at the table. After dinner, you may utilize the time to enjoy a night cap around the fire or decide to retreat to the rooms before the next mornings early start.
This is the safari life cycle – Eat, Sleep, Safari, Repeat.
A safari in Madikwe is so worth it. A truly special experience and I do hope you get to experience it one day soon.
Madikwe Game Reserve is truly a great reserve to visit for safari and I am really looking forward to ending off my safari calendar with a bang!
I have also included a link below, this is to a video where Mike and Grant talk about what a special place Madikwe is...
Until next time,
Trevor
