Some information about Madikwe Game Reserve and the beautiful Nkurru Lodge that we use...
Nkurru Lodge, a hidden gem nestled in the heart of the breathtaking Madikwe Game Reserve. As you embark on an unforgettable safari experience, Nkurru Lodge invites you to immerse yourself in this incredible wilderness area and encounter the majestic wildlife that roams freely in this African paradise.
Located in the North West Province of South Africa, Madikwe Game Reserve is a vast 75,000-hectare sanctuary teeming with an abundance of wildlife. This malaria-free reserve is home to the iconic Big Five—elephants, lions, leopards, rhinoceroses, and buffalos—as well as an array of other fascinating creatures, including giraffes, zebras, cheetahs, and an impressive variety of bird species.
Nestled within this beautiful landscape, Nkurru Lodge offers a luxurious haven where comfort, adventure, and natural beauty seamlessly converge. As you step into our lodge, you will be greeted by warm smiles and impeccable service, ensuring that your stay with us is nothing short of extraordinary.
The accommodation is thoughtfully designed to provide you with a sanctuary of tranquility and relaxation. Each elegantly appointed suite offers sweeping views of the reserve, allowing you to witness the captivating sunrise or sunset from the comfort of your private deck. Indulge in the modern amenities and lavish furnishings that complement the rustic charm of the lodge, ensuring your utmost comfort throughout your stay.
At Nkurru Lodge, we believe in the transformative power of immersive wildlife experiences. Grant, our guide, with his extensive knowledge and passion for the African bush, will accompany you on thrilling game drives, unveiling the hidden wonders of Madikwe Game Reserve. Witness the raw beauty of the wild as you track elusive predators, marvel at the grace of gentle giants, and revel in the harmony of nature.
After exhilarating encounters with wildlife, return to the lodge and savor delectable culinary creations inspired by the rich flavors of Africa. Nkurru Lodges talented chefs will take you on a gastronomic journey, tantalising your taste buds with a fusion of traditional and contemporary cuisine. Enjoy your meals in their elegant dining area, or choose to dine under the starlit African sky, surrounded by the enchanting sounds of the bush.
At Nkurru Lodge, we also prioritise the preservation and conservation of the remarkable ecosystem that surrounds us. Our commitment to sustainable practices ensures that your visit supports the local communities and protects the natural heritage of Madikwe Game Reserve for generations to come.
Whether you seek a romantic getaway, an adventure-filled family retreat, or a soul-enriching solo expedition, Nkurru Lodge invites you to embark on an extraordinary journey in the heart of Madikwe Game Reserve. Let us ignite your sense of wonder and create cherished memories that will linger long after you bid us farewell. With all the above said, I cannot wait for what the week holds for my guests and I.
From the moment you step foot into Nkurru Lodge, you are greeted with a warm and inviting ambiance that instantly makes you feel at ease. The lodge's cozy and intimate atmosphere, combined with the genuine hospitality of the staff, creates a sense of belonging and familiarity. Every detail has been carefully considered to ensure that your stay feels like a seamless extension of your own home.
Going into the dry season, waterhole in front of camp acts as a magnet for various species, ranging from the magnificent general game to the majestic black and white rhinos, the elusive brown hyena, the iconic giraffe, and the charismatic predators that roam the area such as Lions, cheetahs, wild dogs, and leopards are frequent visitors, which always provides our guests with thrilling opportunities to observe their behaviours up close and personal. It really is one of the most productive waterholes I have ever experienced, there is ALWAYS something going on.
Some of my personal highlights are:
- Sitting on the deck in the morning, enjoying a nice hot cup of coffee while soaking up the fresh air and listening to the African bush before heading out on morning drive to see what the bush has in store for our drive.
- This time of year: We are starting to go into our winter months, this means that it is fairly chilly in the mornings and I love heading out to see what the animals have been up to through the evening.
- Being the start of the winter months, there is not to much water lying around the reserve from excess rainfall, this means that animals concentrate around the waterholes.
- The waterhole in front of camp is one of the most active waterhole I have ever experienced at any lodge. During the dry season there is an abundance of wildlife and a constant flow of animals that come down to have a drink, including - general game, elephants, buffalo, black and white rhinos, brown hyenas, spotted hyenas, lions, leopards, cheetah and occasionally the wild dogs.
- I love coming back after evening drive and enjoying a drink with the guests and discussion the daily highlights and listening to the evening sounds.
All the above may sound simple, but I very much believe in appreciating the small moments. Yes, the big moments and sightings are important, but I believe in enjoying and celebrating the small moments in between the big moments and to me, that is what a safari is all about.
Camera Gear Recommendations
As mentioned, having the ability to off-road means that we can get really close to animals. What this means in terms of camera gear, is pretty much anything between a range of 70mm and 400mm. The area is so diverse and so often provides great opportunities of photographing animals in their environments, that the longer zoom lenses allows one to create close up, texture type shots of your subject, whilst a wider angle ensures you capture 'animals in their environment' type images to create a diverse portfolio that we have no doubt you'd be very happy with.
Ideally a 70-200mm paired with a slightly longer zoom lens of say 200-400 is ideal.
Why Travel with Wild Eye to Madikwe?
Exclusive use of the lodge, allows the group the flexibility to operate as we please. No set game drive times, and an adaptable team of kitchen and lodge staff, means we can come and go to and from the lodge determined only by the movements of the animals out in the field. That, in conjunction with the personalised photographic tuition, and Lightroom editing tutorials, makes this one of the best value for money safari's out there.
As the video, and image gallery below will demonstrate, our Madikwe Safari offers a diverse range of wildlife as well as landscape photographic opportunities. What we love about this safari, is that no two days are the same and the excitement of heading out on a new and unknown adventure each morning when leaving for game drive is immeasurable. We love this destination, no matter the time of year, (green season or dry), as it is a safari that will leave you wanting to return for more - guaranteed!
Hear a bit more about our Madikwe safari offering from myself and a sneak peak into what the Safari is all about.
It has been a year almost to the day since I was last at Madikwe and I cannot wait for the week ahead, Madikwe always delivers in one way or another and Im excited to share the experience with my guests.
Until next time,
Trevor
Madikwe Safari
It’s often thought that it is simply not possible for one safari destination to “have it all” and perhaps this statement is indeed true. That said, the diverse and wildly dynamic fauna and flora of Madikwe Game Reserve is about as close as it gets.
Madikwe Trip Report
I recently returned from a fantastic week long scheduled safari at Madikwe in the North West province of South Africa. Of course, lots of photos were taken, so I thought why not put together a trip report video for you all to watch. I hope you enjoy the images and the stories that go with them and sorry in advance for my mug making an appearance every once in a while.
I hope you enjoy!
