Madikwe Game Reserve is one of the few malaria-free reserves in southern Africa. Situated in South Africa, along the Botswana border 20 kilometers from Gaberone, the Reserve lies within a transition region of lowveld bushveld and the Kalahari thornveld. The result is that the region hosts an unbelievable diversity of species from both ecosystems. Geographically the region has gigantic volcanic intrusions known as Inselbergs, which are prominent throughout the reserve and create a magnificent backdrop.

The Lodge...

Buffalo Ridge Safari Lodge was the first wholly-owned, Community-based Safari Lodge to be developed in South Africa. The lodge is an ecotourism partnership between North-West Parks, the Balete Ba Lekgophung Community and the operator, The Nature Workshop. The community has a 45-year lease to operate a commercial lodge with traversing rights across the reserve. The concept is unique in South Africa as the community owns the development, with substantial benefits accruing back to the community itself.

Buffalo Ridge Safari Lodge is situated on the Tweedepoort Ridge overlooking the plains and inselbergs of the western section of Madikwe Game Reserve.

The main lodge is spectacularly located on two tiers of the ridge, accessed via a wooden bridge that crosses a ravine surrounded by rock figs. Each of the living areas has its own character, mood and style providing guests with a choice of breathtaking views and tranquil spaces.

Whether you are relaxing in the lounge, the lower or upper deck areas or at the pool, you will find a space that suits you best.

Chalets...

The lodge has 8 suites, each with its own breathtaking viewing deck, decorated in natural hues of colour and texture, offering a very private and luxurious experience. The thatched suites have sliding doors from each room and an outdoor shower which allows the guests to feel totally connected with their surroundings.

The Reserve...

Open vehicle game drives, walks, tracking, stargazing, bush dining, birding, botany interests are just a few of the activities one can enjoy at the Lodge.
Madikwe Game Reserve is home to a tremendous diversity of fauna and flora, including black and white rhino, buffalo, elephant, lion, leopard, cheetah and wild dog. The lodge is a superb walking and open vehicle safari destination where guests are accompanied by well-trained and informative rangers who are able to interpret the many encounters whilst on safari.

What to take...

Walking shoes, sun hat, sunglasses, sun block, cameras, binoculars, light clothing and bathing suit in summer and warm clothing and jackets in winter.

Climate...

Summer - September to March
Rainy season with hot days and warm nights. Temperatures 25°C - 40°C.
Winter - April to August
Dry season with generally warm days and cold nights. Temperatures 0°C - 25°C.

Children...

Regret no children under 12 years of age. Children aged between 12 and 15 years, sharing the accommodation with their parents, will be charged 50% of the tariff with a maximum of one child per suite.

How to get there...

Daily scheduled flights are operated from Johannesburg International Airport to the Madikwe Airstrip with Federal Air/ Madikwe Air Charters. Private air-charters are organised on request. It is only a 4-hour drive from Johannesburg to Buffalo Ridge