3 Best Hotels in Madikwe Game Reserve, Johannesburg

If you’re genuinely eco-conscious and seeking an authentic wilderness experience, then choose this unique bush camp set plumb in the middle of Madikwe’s best game-viewing areas. Apart from the elephant-high electric wires that encircle this delightful camp, there’s no other electricity, but oil lamps and hot water heated in the donkey boilers for your bush showers are both practical and romantic. Separate, private ablutions and toilets are easily accessed from your comfortable twin cabin on stilts, but be warned, they're basic. The simple home-cooked food is delicious and you’ll receive personal attention from the friendly, knowledgeable staff. Mosetlha’s local rangers are among the best anywhere and have won international awards, so expect your game-viewing to be spectacular. Lions, wild dogs, leopards and hyenas have all been known to wander through the unfenced camp, but you’ll be quite safe in your cabin or as you sit round a crackling fire sharing sightings of the day. There may be no frills but this family-owned little camp has top marks for authenticity, eco-awareness and spectacular sightings.

The two lodges that make up Jaci's Lodges are family-owned and have a long-standing reputation for friendliness, superb game drives, and comfortable accommodations. They are located side-by-side in the southeast of the reserve on the edge of the Marico River. At Jaci's Safari Lodge, you'll stay in one of eight roomy tented suites with outdoor showers, handcrafted mosaic baths, and a private deck overlooking the bushveld and river below. There are also two suites that sleep about 8 each if you have a bigger family group and two romantic star bed suites. The welcoming public areas are cheerful with a seamless fusion of contemporary and African decor. Children are well catered for (6 to 12 years, younger by special arrangement). The eight suites of the secluded Jaci's Tree Lodge, built of wood and thatch and perched on stilts connected by wooden walkways, have views through the riverine trees across the Marico River. All stays include all meals, house drinks, and game drives.

Located in the west of Madikwe, Rhulani is a multi-award-winning lodge with nine private rooms, located around an attractive communal lounge and pool area, and overlooking a waterhole frequented by elephants and other animals. A hide at the waterhole, accessed through a short underground tunnel, will get you breathtakingly close to animals and birds. The service and food are first-rate and the accommodation is African chic, with an air of relaxed luxury. Each room has its own plunge pool and fireplace, and you can book a spa treatment in the comfort of your room. With only nine suites, spaced well apart, this lodge offers privacy and seclusion.