A Game Experience like no other: Jamala Madikwe

In South Africa’s North West Province, bordering Botswana (only a one-hour flight by scheduled charter from Johannesburg, or a four-hour road transfer), Madikwe Game Reserve offers a malaria-free, big five safari―and Jamala Madikwe is one of my favourites in the area. Owner-run and managed, this exclusive lodge offers attention to detail, and ticks all the boxes when it comes to luxury safari travel.

The location of this lodge is something to write home about. Nicknamed the “sofa safari” lodge for a reason, you can literally enjoy game viewing from the comfort of your deck. The accommodation is built overlooking a waterhole, which attracts all sorts of animals at different times of the day. This allows you to maximize your safari experience and still enjoy the lodge facilities. This scenic lodge is a photographer’s dream! They have also built the “watch tower” which gives you an uninterrupted view of the waterhole and bush below. The lodge offers private romantic dinners to be served at the watch tower in the summer months, making this a very special inclusion for honeymooners.

I have visited this beautiful lodge a couple of times and every time it is just as sensational as the first visit. The five villas are all free-standing and incredibly luxurious. Your own private plunge pool has bush and waterhole views. Each villa has indoor and outdoor showers, as well as a fireplace for the cooler months―making Jamala the perfect spot for a romantic getaway!

I think what makes this place even more special is the hosts’ attention to detail and hospitality. Owner-run and managed, Jamala will leave you feeling pampered from the time you arrive until the time you leave.

Jamala is known for more than just its luxury villas and safari experiences. Nico Verster is the lodge’s Executive Chef and General Manager. You can expect gorgeous flavours of Africa to be present in his dishes produced by a small team of amazing chefs. The food is so sensational, you will need to make peace with the fact that you will be going home a few pounds heavier! As much as you say you will exercise restraint, his dishes are just too amazing to refuse! Not to mention the decadent high teas served at Jamala daily, before going out to game drive. The lodge does have a gym where you can work off some guilt, as well as a spa for some relaxation and pampering. The main lodge area also has a pool for those wanting to do some laps, or simply relax in the pool overlooking the waterhole visitors.

Every time I have been to Jamala I have had the most incredible safari experience. The guides are passionate, and that makes the difference. They want to share this special part of South Africa with you and show off all they have to offer in the Madikwe Game Reserve. You can expect to see Africa’s big five, in addition to the more elusive and rarer sightings, such as wild dog and cheetah.

In summary, this is what I love about this property:

Owner-run and managed property ensures seamless attention to detail at all times;
Incredible safari coupled with knowledgeable and fully trained guides;
Luxurious lodge finishes and spacious villas allowing for a very romantic experience
Fantastic cuisine by award-wining chef; and
The passionate hosts at Jamala keep guests coming back. Especially me!

This would be one of my top honeymoon spots in South Africa. It is malaria-free, so it is perfect for expectant mums and those looking for a “babymoon”. Jamala does have child policies in place, so please chat to us if you are looking for a safari with young children. We will make the appropriate enquiries for availability.

Check out this clip of Jamala: