LOCATION: Inside the malaria-free Madikwe Game Reserve (Madikwe means “Africa in its majesty”), 185,000+ acres of diverse landscapes, ranging from open grasslands, to rocky outcrops, mountains and woodlands. One of the largest private game reserves in South Africa, Madikwe supports an enormous range of wildlife and is o­pen only to guests of the safari lodges within its boundaries.

SETTING: Nestling up to a ridge, the three camps at Madikwe Safari Lodge offers sweeping views over the Madikwe Game Reserve. While they epitomize contemporary African design, the atmosphere is luxuriously laid-back.

ACCOMMODATION: Each of Lelapa’s 12 spacious luxury suites has a private lounge, fireplace, viewing deck and plunge pool, with the four Family Suites also incorporate a second children’s bedroom, stocked with toys and games. Wi-Fi in rooms and public areas.

HIGHLIGHTS: The beauty of the landscape and superb malaria-free safari experience. Family-friendly yet sophisticated with well thought out activities for all. Wildlife highlights range from the prized Big Five (elephant, black and white rhino, lion, leopard and Cape buffalo) to cheetahs, zebras, endangered wild dogs and other unique species like oryx, springbok, etc. Traversing is across the entire reserve, while off-road driving, night drives and safari walks are offered.

ACTIVITIES: Morning and afternoon game drives, safari walks, sundowners, bush dinners and breakfasts. The serviced guest pool and loungers are separated by a low electric fence from a very active waterhole for an incredible “poolside safari”. In-room spa treatments are also available.

CHILD POLICY: Lelapa (meaning ‘family’ in Setswana) welcomes guests of all ages, with family-friendly accommodations and specially planned children’s activities, children’s amenities and a dedicated “Eco-Center”. Subtle electric fencing around camp provides added security against larger animals. Children aged five and younger are not permitted on game drives and safari activities. A family game drive is offered for younger children after breakfast. A private vehicle can also be arranged at an additional cost. Lelapa Lodge is one of the best malaria-free family options in Africa.

GETTING THERE: Regular one-hour scheduled flights on Federal Air from Johannesburg (connects to Sabi Sands/Kruger in reverse direction) land at airstrip 10min from Madikwe Safari Lodge. Private plane or helicopter charters are an option too. Madikwe is a convenient 3.5 hr drive from Johannesburg, so road transfers or self-drives are also possible.

OPEN: Open year-round.

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MADIKWE SAFARI LODGE - Lelapa Camp Website