If there were one more thing I could do, it would be to go on a luxury safari once again at Madikwe Hills Private Game Lodge.

The lodge is situated in the malaria-free Madikwe Game Reserve, traversing over 75,000 hectares of true untamed Africa, where the plains teem with game and the wild dogs roam freely amongst the Big Five.

After our stay at one of the other game reserves, we were collected in a canopied safari vehicle by the very friendly game ranger Wayne and tracker Herman. We were excited when Wayne took the initiative in taking us to see the pack of wild dogs which they spotted near a watering hole where some elephants, impala and giraffes gathered. We were also lucky enough to see the wildebeest and baboons on our way to the lodge.

The roads that led to Madikwe Hills were so smooth which made the ride that much more enjoyable. The canopy keeping the direct sunlight from our eyes made for a luxurious and comfortable ride.

As we approached the reception area of Madikwe Hills, the staff were lined up and ready to meet and greet us. We were treated with the utmost professionalism and from the start we could see that strict COVID protocols and regulations were followed. The welcoming drinks and refreshing towels really did what they were meant to do, gave us a refreshing welcome.

We were shown around by the manager Hannes, as he familiarized us with the environment and layout of the lodge. Walking along the wooden pathways, ten ultra-luxurious suites were ingeniously positioned amongst boulders and majestic Tamboti trees, at night the walkways are lit by hurricane lamps that criss-cross the grounds and connect the secluded suites to the central open-plan lounge, bar, wine cellar, library and dining area. We immediately felt very in tune with the environment as the walkways are all elevated and positioned among the trees, it brought a calming sensation to our souls.

Upon entering our suite, we were overwhelmed by the pure luxury that was offered. The suite was large and featured a private deck,  we also had a private splash pool, a gas fireplace, overhead fans, air-conditioning, outdoor shower and a spacious bathroom with tub and shower.

We each received a reusable  branded thermos water bottle to help conserve the environment.

A warm and friendly atmosphere was present while we enjoyed our three course meals. The dining area overlooked the waterhole, the perfect spot to appreciate the gifts of nature in a tranquil setting. At night, the gas heaters and candles burned creating soft lighting while atmospheric music played in the background. The food was absolutely delicious, presented with such elegance and truly showcased the exclusivity and luxury of the lodge.

Prior to the afternoon game drives we enjoyed delicious snacks served with our choice of hot or cold drinks. Once again, the professionalism of the staff was admirable. Such dedication and hard work made our stay so memorable.

The game drives started at 16:00 in the afternoon and 06:00 in the morning. The experience was top five star and packed with so many luxuries to enjoy. Not only did we have a shaded safari vehicle, but also hand warmers, warm bottles, hooded wind proof ponchos and warm fleece blankets for the colder evenings or mornings. The game ranger, Wayne, made our sundowners extra special by spoiling us with duck and eland prepared right there on a gas braai. Herman was our barman, and spoiled us with any drink of choice, he even mixed some cocktails for us. On the morning drives we were spoiled with Herman’s special bush mix, all the snacks were individually packed and sealed, making it so convenient and easy for us all.

Herman is an excellent tracker and spotted all the wild animals that was on our list. Wayne is so knowledgeable of all the animals in the game reserve. He informed, broadened and expanded our knowledge of the animals and birds. We were absolutely spoiled to see the lions and their cubs during play time, the white rhinos, black rhinos, buffalos, scrub hare, ground squirrel, spotted hyena, jackal, mongoose, warthog, impala, kudu, oryx, zebra, steenbok and gemsbok. One morning Wayne drove out of the reserve to show us the hippopotamus, crocodiles and the vervet monkey. What a phenomenal experience. The adventure of a lifetime.

After each game drive, we were warmly welcomed back to the lodge by the friendly staff members, with a welcome back drink and refreshing towels, this just completed the days to perfection.

Madikwe Hills Game Private Game Lodge exceeded all the expiation that we had. In fact, it is an understatement, they showed us the African skies and shooting stars, to infinity and beyond.

I highly recommend Madikwe Hills for your next African wildlife experience in pure style and luxury that exceeds all expectations.

Luxury is in each tiny little detail with Madikwe Hills Game Reserve.

I’d like to personally thank Ker & Downey Africa for making this trip the experience of a lifetime, with smooth and seamless organisation from start to finish.

Written by Karin da Silva for Luxuria Lifestyle South Africa