What do travelers want from their dream holiday?

Some of the most common things on a vacation wish-list include opulent accommodations, delectable cuisine, exceptional service and hospitality, and some thrilling views of nature and scenic beauty.South Africa combines all of the above elements to create an unparalleled luxury safari experience, with the added bonus of the Big 5 and a gaming experience unlike any other.

Makanyane Safari Lodge is the ideal location for those seeking such a thrilling yet rejuvenating safari experience. Located within the spectacular Madikwe Game Reserve, Makanyane Safari Lodge is exclusive in more ways than one!

For one, the Lodge actively supports its local community development and wildlife conservation. So much so that the guests can participate in various projects and programs. An experience that will stay in your memory for years to come, as you witness the local culture and community in their full glory.

Luxurious stay

Makanyane Safari Lodge houses eight secluded suites that are designed in a way to leave the least environmental impact. Using local stone, wood and thatch bland that seems one with the savannah, the suites have glass-walled bedrooms that enable guests to connect with the natural beauty of their environs. All suites overlook the serene Marico river offering beautiful views of the surrounding bush. The suites are big enough to accommodate two extra sleeper beds for children.

Picture this: Suites with open-fronted lounges, private sun-decks and large bathrooms that open into the forests; an infinity-edge swimming pool, gymnasium, a health and beauty treatment center, and lookout point with stunning views. Makanyane is created for an extremely intimate and relaxing holiday.

A truly gastronomic safari

The wine list at Makanyane boasts of some fine wines from an award-winning selection. The wines are selected to complement their exceptional cuisine designed by a team of international gourmet chefs. Enjoy their hearty breakfasts with your game drive guide. The other meals include buffet lunches, afternoon teas as well as a la carte dinners. There is also a special children’s menu.

One experience that most guests are fascinated with is the rustic sleep-out hide. This allows the guests to sleep under the starlit African skies with sights and sounds of the wilderness.

You get further acquainted with the charm, drama, and mystery of African wildlife on the game drives and bush walks conducted by their passionate field guides.

Spa and wellness

The spa sessions at Madikwe Game Reserve are truly world-class. Makanyane upholds this reputation with its highly trained beauty therapists and wellness programs.

Pick from a range of health and beauty treatments and indulge either within the secluded spa area or in the privacy of your own suite’s deck. There are many options such that you can take spa therapy and enjoy the stunning views during the treatment.

Wildlife

It is the game drives that are the real treat – both on the Makanyane Private Reserve spread across 1800 hectares of private grounds and beyond that the Madikwe Game Reserve. You will witness the best of game life, including the elusive Wild Dogs and even a serval or two if you are lucky.

Game drive guides are a treasure trove of knowledge and most passionate about wildlife conservation. Warmth, professionalism, and service are the hallmarks of your stay at Makanyane and you will witness the best of this combination during the game drives.

There is a high likelihood of spotting lions, elephant, black and white rhino, and leopards, but also cheetahs, giraffes, and spotted/brown hyena.

While there are two daily game drives (morning and late afternoon), the afternoon one extends into the night to reveal the beauty of nocturnal wildlife.

If you are visiting Makanyane, do not miss the game walk experience. An armed and professional guide will accompany and regale you with stories as you are led along paths that follow animal footsteps. Adrenaline runs high and the thrill of walking among the wild is quite unusual.

Kid-friendly

If you are traveling with children, then the whole of Madikwe Game Reserve is renowned for its kid-friendly activities. Children get education and entertainment with activities like archery practice, mini-game walks, and a junior ranger course. By the end of this, they are presented with a certificate.

To sum it up, there are lots of exciting things to do in Makanyane and Madikwe for all age groups. Go as a couple or go with family; it is an unforgettable experience for sure.