Madikwe Game Reserve
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| Get up close to the wildlife |
Madikwe Game Reserve is a fairly recent addition that lies to the north of the small town of Groot Marico and stretches all the way to the Botswana border. Opened in August 1991, this 700 km2 stretch of bushveld is a masterpiece in conservation. The Madikwe Game Reserve is also the only reserve in the world that was proposed as the best and sustainable use for a large tract of what was once farmland.
In the massive expanse of the Madikwe Game Reserve there are over 2 000 animals of 27 different species. The Big 5 are can be seen in the reserve with some of the members, most notably the elephants, having incredible stories related to their repopulation in the area. In addition to the Big 5, Madikwe Game Reserve also hosts wild dogs, cheetahs, hyenas, zebra, giraffe and numerous antelope species. For the bird lovers, the reserve is home to 350 different bird species.
Madikwe Game Reserve is not open for day visits. Visitors must stay in one of the luxurious lodges to experience the beauty of the reserve. The lodges are privately run but, as the reserve is run by the state, local communities and private entities; the profits are shared equally amongst all the members.
Visitors to the reserve are sure to have an incredible safari experience. The lodges offer day and night game drives that allow visitors to see all the animals that Madikwe Game Reserve has to offer. Some lodges also offer guided bush walks that allow visitors to get up close and personal with the animals of the bush.
Madikwe Game Reserve is a great destination in the North West Province and one of its best kept secrets. It lies in a malaria free zone, making it perfect for family holiday. Madikwe Game Reserve can be reached by car, taking about three hours from Johannesburg, but there are daily flights from the OR Tambo airport to the reserve as well.
For the perfect African safari and to witness just how much man can do to repair the damage he has done, come visit Madikwe Game Reserve. It will be an experience you will not soon forget.
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