Jamala Madikwe Royal Safari Lodge | Game Reserve

rt-image

Jamala Madikwe Royal Safari Lodge lies in the lower eastern region of the world-renowned Madikwe Game Reserve.

With its refined contemporary décor, neutral earth-inspired palette, classic finishes, and enduring charm, this elite boutique Safari Lodge blends perfectly with the natural beauty of the surrounding terrain, and more than lives up to its name, Jamala being the Swahili term for “natural elegance.”

Incidentally, Safari is also of Swahili origin and means “journey” or “to travel,” a term that has become synonymous with exotic African adventures.

From its secluded position beneath a canopy of ancient Leadwood trees, the extensive viewing decks of the main lodge offer unparalleled views of the open savanna and the waterhole which is frequented by the resident wildlife – ideal for indulging in an “armchair safari.” Alternatively, make your way up to the watchtower for an up-close encounter with the birds and impish Vervet monkeys cavorting in the forest.

Come mealtimes, relish in award-winning cuisine served al fresco in the firelit Boma or under mesmerising night skies on the “Star deck” of the main lodge. All meals are freshly prepared by gourmet chef Nico Verster who aims to delight with his fusion fare that is guaranteed to be a feast for the senses and that earned Jamala Madikwe the vote for “Best Safari Cuisine in Africa 2014/2015.” Meals can also be prepared on request.

The Jamala Royal accommodates a maximum of ten guests in five deluxe freestanding villas which have been carefully positioned to ensure you enjoy optimal peace and privacy and unforgettable views of this pristine bushveld setting. Villas 1 and 2 look out over the adjacent plains and Lodge waterhole while Villa 3 provides twin extra-length beds for friends travelling together. Villas 4 and 5 have been built with honeymoon couples in mind and are therefore set slightly further away from the main lodge to ensure ultimate seclusion.

Each beautifully-appointed thatched villa boasts an antique four-poster bed draped in mosquito netting, sitting area with fireplace, dining area, walk-in dressing room, lavish bathroom, indoor and outdoor showers, and concertina glass sliding doors that open onto the spacious wrap-around verandah, complete with plunge pool and private Sala.

For your ultimate comfort, amenities include a complimentary minibar and coffee/tea facilities, air-conditioning, dressing gowns, pure cotton linen, a hair dryer, and safe as well as the option to book a romantic dinner for two on your verandah.

The Jamala Royal can also be booked for a sole-use family or group breakaway. In this case, a minimum of eight guests is required to qualify for sole-use and children of all ages are accepted. Typically, the Lodge does not allow children under 16 years of age without prior arrangement.

A visit to Jamala Madikwe Royal Safari Lodge ensures no shortage of opportunities to explore the diverse wildlife and geographical wonders of Madikwe without having to compromise on life’s little luxuries. Outdoor activities include twice-daily game drives in an open 4X4 vehicle, accompanied by expert rangers as well as unrivalled bird watching.

When it comes to enjoying some downtime, escape the heat of the day at the Lodge’s large lap pool. While away the afternoon playing boules. Get your heart rate up with a workout in the well-equipped gym. Or pamper yourself with a range of luxurious treatments in the Jamala Madikwe Royal Spa.

If you’re looking to unwind, treat yourself to one of Jamala Royal’s sumptuous high teas or retire to the library for some light reading. Chilly winter evenings are the perfect reason to cosy up in front of the lounge fireplace while the open-air bar is just the spot to toast another fabulous day on safari in this spectacular bushveld destination.


  • icon Rates
  • icon Specials
  • icon A Day on Safari
  • icon About Us
  • icon Accommodation
  • icon Facilities
  • icon Location
  • icon Terms
Rates inclusive of 15% VAT • South African Rands • Subject to availability
Details 6 Jan 2024 to 30 Apr 2024
5 Luxury Villas - Per Person Per Night Sharing R17 735
Exclusive Use per night R177 350
Details 1 May 2024 to 31 Jul 2024
5 Luxury Villas - Per Person Per Night Sharing R16 235
Exclusive Use per night R162 350
Details 1 Aug 2024 to 14 Dec 2024
5 Luxury Villas - Per Person Per Night Sharing R17 735
Exclusive Use per night R177 350
Details 15 Dec 2024 to 5 Jan 2025
5 Luxury Villas - Per Person Per Night Sharing R21 560
Exclusive Use per night R215 500

Single Supplement - 50% surcharge will apply

Rate Includes

  • Complimentary welcome drinks
  • Accommodation
  • All meals as prepared by our award winning Chefs
  • A personal selection of house wines, spirits, teas, coffees and soft drinks
  • Early morning and evening game drives
  • All transfers to & from the lodge to the landing strip

Rates Exclude

  • Gate Entry - Adult R250 Child under 12 R125
  • or Flight Entry - Adult R300 Child under 12 - R200
  • Daily Conservation Levy - Adult R220 pppd Child under 12 - R110 pcpd
  • Subject to change & NWPB terms and conditions. Charged with accommodation.
  • Spa Treatments
  • Imported Champagnes, Premium Wine & Spirits


Winter May, June and July 2024 Special

3 Nights at Jamala Madikwe
50 % reduction on the 3rd night

4 Nights at Jamala Madikwe
75 % reduction on the 4rd night

Subject to availability. One promotion per visit. Cannot be used in conjunction with any other promotion.

Enquire | Book Now

SAFARI AND DAILY GAME DRIVES

Enjoy daily game drives in pristine malaria free Madikwe Game Reserve. Madikwe Game Reserve is an ancient land where nature plays out her age-old theatre of life and death between hunter and hunted. Well positioned within the reserve’s treasure trove of animals, Jamala Madikwe reverberates with the call of birds and impish Vervet monkeys. The lodge offers incredible safari experiences including sighting of the big 5 and super 7. The ‘Big 5’ phrase referred to the five most dangerous animals in Africa to hunt. The term is still used today but without the hunting connotation. The “Super 7” phrase also includes the highly endangered Wild dog and Cheetah.

Madikwe Game Reserve is know as one of the best conservation areas in all of Africa, at Jamala Madikwe you will get to experience this diverse and rich ecosystem with over 130 mammal and 300 bird species not to mention the vast landscapes of plant life that keeps the whole reserve alive and healthy for all its inhabitants.

Twice-daily game drives at dawn and dusk form the daily routine of your Safari day. You will witness sunrise and sunset under incredible African skies whilst enjoying the daily animal sightings. A typical game drive lasts approximately three to four hours and all game drives are included in our rates.

GAME EXPERIENCES
  • Morning and evening game drives
  • Big 5 game viewing
  • 130 mammal and 300 bird species
GAME DRIVE VEHICLES AND GUIDES
We have three exceptional game rangers at Jamala Madikwe, they hold FGASA qualifications, advanced rifle-handling as well as first aid training. These qualifications ensure guests an exceptional and informative game experience. Our greatest priority is guest safety. All guides receive ongoing training and evaluations monthly within Madikwe Game Reserve to ensure this.

PRIVATE VEHICLES
We ensure two safari vehicles daily with a maximum number of six guests to a vehicle depending on the size of the party. Private vehicles are subject to availability at an additional cost. Please contact us directly for availability and pricing

SOFA SAFARI

The term “Sofa Safari” does go hand-in-hand with the Jamala experience. There are very few places in Africa where you can sit and watch wild elephants play at a waterhole 20 meters in front of you. The Sofa Safari will evoke incredible emotion for any traveler young or old.

POOL SAFARI
A unique experience to Jamala Madikwe the pool safari. Refresh, relax and revitalize at our large swimming pool situated at the edge of the Jamala waterhole under an ancient Leadwood tree. The vantage point will offer incredible wild life sightings while you bathe in the glorious African sun. The pool deck also offers a wide range of drinks available from the open-air bar.

AWARD WINNING CUISINE AND COOKBOOKS

Dine alfresco beneath Africa’s ink-rich skies, cut with the brilliance of a million stars.  Food aficionados can indulge in modern gastronomic treats served with the chic colonial charm and grace that is unique to Jamala Madikwe.

Designs from our award winning chef Nico Verster titillate the senses with an array of sensual delights. Jamala Madikwe has been awarded numerous awards for its outstanding cuisine. Look out for the Jamala Madikwe Cookbooks, Savannah to Sea and Safaris and Spices by Nico Verster.

Breakfast is served daily at the main lodge after morning game drive and usually finishes around 11 am; no buffets here strictly beautifully plated food. Enjoy a relaxed high tea with numerous sweet and savory treats in the afternoon just before the evening safari. Upon return to the lodge indulge in an intimate table for two in one of our numerous beautiful locations.

DINING EXPERIENCES
  • Outdoor Boma dining area
  • Romantic watchtower dinner
  • Star lit pool deck dinner overlooking the Jamala Madikwe waterhole
  • Award winning cuisine
  • Degustation menus with wine pairings
DECK BAR GIN TASTING

Indulge at the `Jamala Bar in a classic gin and tonic tasting whilst enjoying waterhole views and crimson skies across the savannah plains.

WATCHTOWER

An extraordinary way to experience an afternoon at Jamala is to sit aloft the watchtower whilst observing spectacular scenes of mother nature’s bounty unfold. Numerous seating areas on top of the tower give you uninterrupted views across the Dwarsberg mountain range. The watchtower is the ideal place for an afternoon nap, sipping on champagne or enjoying a romantic private dinner.

WELLNESS FACILITIES ROYAL SPA AND GYM

The Jamala Madikwe spa is a tranquil space where you can reconnect mind, body and soul to nature. A calming and relaxing area where the daily worries can be forgotten. Our bespoke spa menu features signature treatments unique to Jamala to create an immersive experience, which is entirely African.

The Jamala Spa is proud of our South African heritage the Charlotte Rhys Spa product range includes Baobab Oil and Kalahari Melon Seed Oil as well as Aloe Ferox Leaf Extract. These products are Eco-Friendly and approved by Beauty Without Cruelty. The LaMelle skin care range contains ingredients that moisturize, protect, soothe, and reduce free radicals and pigmentation, it’s topical growth factors also increase new collagen development. The Spa is open daily between 8am and 5pm.

The Jamala Gym is complimentary for all our guests. Equipment includes treadmill, elliptical, exercise bike, free weights, and TRX training.

SPA EXPERIENCES
  • Full body detox, detox body polish and detox massage
  • Full body relaxation, relaxing full body and head massage including aromatherapy, swedish, deep tissue and hot stone massage
  • Manicure / Pedicure / Facials / Waxing
  • Jamala masculine experience, for him
  • Jamala experiences, including hot stone massage and mineral clay
  • Jamala experience, with detox sea salt scrub and deep tissue massage
PHOTOGRAPHY

Every vantage point around Jamala offers a chance to capture that dream Safari image. Numerous areas around the lodge will give you access to the private waterhole where a plethora of animals congregate. Photographers will enjoy uninterrupted scenery and endless opportunity to capture Africa’s most impressive species interacting in their natural environment.

CURIO BOUTIQUE

We offer hand crafted and bespoke items in the Jamala Madikwe curio boutique. If you need a small bronze or a bespoke piece of jewelry for that special loved one we can assist. We keep numerous African Artifacts and other worldly items perfect for any special occasion or that last minute gift from Africa.
VILLAS

Each slice of paradise is fully air-conditioned and offers superlative luxury and intimate privacy combined with extravagant outdoor facilities, which include individual plunge pools and salas, expansive wooden decks and private outdoor showers. The Jamala Madikwe villas exude colonial charm perfectly suited to a luxury safari experience.

The 5 Villas at Jamala offer exceptional luxury accommodation with large spaces and remarkable waterhole and savannah views. We believe that Safaris should be both comfortable yet opulent, no detail spared.

VILLA FACILITIES
  • Views of our waterhole and open savannah
  • Lounge with fireplace
  • Dining area
  • Walk-in dressing room
  • Complimentary minibar and coffee/tea facilities
  • Air-conditioned
  • Private pool and sala
  • Outdoor shower

We need places and moments that make us pause and take time out. Time to think. To listen. To return a smile. To write a letter. Things that make us focus on what really matters in life. On friendship and feelings. Thoughts and dreams. Jamala Madikwe is that place.

ENDURING CHARM

Jamala Madikwe is a luxury boutique safari lodge in South Africa’s Madikwe Game Reserve. Organic glamor and opulent accents combine to ensure a distinctive and elegant flair. Tradition and eccentricity are tastefully united in an atmosphere that knows no equal. Your African safari will provide a detailed insight into the diverse landscape of Madikwe Game Reserve and its unparalleled game viewing. Indulge in award winning cuisine under African skies or treat yourself to a tranquil spa day in the Jamala Madikwe Royal Spa.

Jamala Madikwe reflects a classic sense of style that is sufficiently robust to match the savage beauty that lies beyond. Jamala Madikwe is easily accessible by air and road and is located in Madikwe Game Reserve in the North West Province of Southern Africa.

MAIN LODGE FACILITIES
  •  Lounge and library with fireplace
  •  Gourmet dining experiences: Boma and Star deck
  •  Complimentary WiFi access
  •  “Sofa Safari” overlooking our private waterhole
  •  Curio Shop
  •  Jamala Madikwe watchtower overlooking the Savannah plains and waterhole
  • Open air bar
  • Large Lap pool  

COCOONED BENEATH A CANOPY OF STARS

Jamala Madikwe gently embraces the lay of the land with just five freestanding luxurious villas. Each slice of paradise is fully air-conditioned and offers superlative luxury and intimate privacy combined with extravagant outdoor facilities which include individual rim-flow pools and salas, expansive wooden decks and private outdoor showers. The Jamala Madikwe villas exude colonial charm perfectly suited to a luxury safari experience.

VILLA FACILITIES
  • Views of our waterhole and open savannah
  • Lounge with fireplace
  • Dining area
  • Walk-in dressing room
  • Complimentary minibar and coffee/tea facilities
  • Air conditioned
  • Private rim flow pool and sala
  • Outdoor shower 
 
Panoramic views, exotic sounds and wild perfumes of the bush are hallmarks of the Jamala Madikwe Experience. From its genteel position beneath a canopy of age-old Leadwood trees, the deck-fringed lodge gives way to views of open savanna lands and a watering hole that plays host to Africa's wildlife.
 
Dining
 
Designs from award winning chef Nico, titillate the senses with an array of sensual delights. Dine alfresco beneath Africa's ink-rich skies - cut with the brilliance of a million stars. Food aficionados can indulge in modern gastronomic treats served with the chic colonial charm and grace that is unique to Jamala Madikwe.
 
Game Drives
 
Madikwe is an ancient land where nature play out her age-old theatre of life and death between hunter and hunted. Well positioned within the reserve's treasure trove of animals, Jamala Madikwe reverberates with the call of birds and impish Vervet monkeys.

 

 
The malaria-free Madikwe Game Reserve is a 75 000 ha region of untamed beauty. A natural splendour located in South Africa’s North West province.This wild terrain boasts a tapestry of awe-inspiring landscapes that encompass vast open plains, dense bushveld and towering rocky peaks. All of which offers sanctuary to  a kaleidoscope of creatures, including the ‘super seven’.
 
Air Transfers
 
Scheduled flights to and from Madikwe Game Reserve are available, twice per day.  These flights are operated by national carrier Federal Air. Departures from OR Tambo International Airport are scheduled for 10h00 and 13h00 respectively.  Flight duration is approximately 1 hour.  Flights from Madikwe Game Reserve depart at 11h30 and 14h30 respectively. Flight schedules are subject to change.
 
Helicopter and Private Charter
 
Guests preferring helicopter or privately chartered flights are welcome to make reservations by way of the Jamala Madikwe personnel.
 
Road Transfers
 
Several transfer companies provide chauffeur operated vehicles into and from Madikwe Game Reserve and the travel duration is approximately 3½ hours. Jamala Madikwe personnel can make reservations for either of these options on your behalf.

Single Supplement-50% surcharge will apply

Rate Includes

  • Complimentary welcome drinks
  • Accommodation
  • All meals as prepared by our award winning Chefs
  • A personal selection of house wines, spirits, teas, coffees and soft drinks
  • Early morning and evening game drives
  • All transfers to & from the lodge to the landing strip

Rates Exclude

  • Gate Entry - Adult R250 Child under 12  R125
  • or Flight Entry - Adult R300 Child under 12 - R200
  • Daily Conservation Levy - Adult R220 pppd Child under 12 - R110 pcpd
  • Subject to change & NWPB terms and conditions. Charged with accommodation.
  • Spa Treatments
  • Imported Champagnes, Premium Wine & Spirits

Child Policy

  • Children under 16 by special arrangement
  • Under 16 requires the use of a private vehicle – subject to availability and to be confirmed on enquiry, additional charges apply
  • Exclusive use, no arrangements required

Cancellation Policy:

Cancellations must be in writing and will be accepted from date of notification.

  • 61 days or longer prior to arrival date - 25% of reserved fee is applicable
  • 60 to 15 days prior to arrival –50% of reserved fee is applicable
  • 14 days and less - 100% of reserved fee is applicable
  • Flights booked via FEDAIR is subject to their cancellation policy.
  • In the event of a 100% cancellation fee, Jamala Madikwe will undertake to reimburse
  • 90% of the levied fee, should the villa be resold for the period in question.
  • Once cancellation is accepted, the inventory is returned to Jamala Madikwe for re-sale. and possible re-imbursement. No transfer of bookings or substitutions will be allowed.
  • Please ensure adequate travel insurance is in place.
  • Cancellations and curtailment beyond our control is subject to above terms.

Payment Policy:

  • As per industry standards, a deposit is applicable to secure a booking.
  • Full prepayment or balance payments: 30 days prior to arrival.
  • If booking is 30 days or less - full prepayment is required to confirm.

Payments must be received timeously

Jamala Madikwe is beautifully positioned within the Madikwe Game Reserve. Located in the North West Province, the reserve is home to the greatest diversity of wildlife in the southern region:

  • Fourth largest reserve in South Africa at 75,000 hectares
  • Full traverse rights over the 75,000 hectares
  • MALARIA FREE and home to the BIG FIVE
  • Renowned for it’s successful WILD DOG programme and sightings
  • Includes both Black and White Rhino, Brown and Spotted Hyena, Cheetah and a plethora of other wildlife
  • Extremely Low Impact Ratio: 1 bed to every 150 hectares • Just 3.5 hours by road from OR Tambo / Lanseria Airports to the reserve
  • Daily flights into the reserve is operated by Federal Air
  • Options for private charter flights by way of aircraft or helicopter
  • Several transfer companies provide services to and from Madikwe

Season:

October – April (RAINY SEASON)

Day Temperatures can vary but are usually hot and humid averaging 30°C, The highest rainfall months are between November and February.

May to September (DRY SEASON)

The winter months in Madikwe can be dry and cold with night temperatures dropping to 2°C and Day temperatures averaging 23°C. Be sure to bring warm clothing.

Villa's: 5

  • Guests: 10 maximum - (2 Guests sharing per Villa)
  • Exclusive Use: Applies to the use of all 5 Villas / or 8 guests or more
  • Child Policy: No children under 16 years of age without prior arrangements
  • Private vehicle required for bookings with children 6 - 16yrs. Subject to availability and additional charges apply for private vehicle usage
  • Exclusive Use Child Policy: Exclusive use, the child policy falls away
  • Rates Policy: Date range validity as indicated. Rates are subject to change 
  • Check in / out and departure time: Check in 14h00 / Check out and departure 11h00
  • Early arrivals and late departures by arrangement only
  • Charges applicable.


Deposit Policy

  • For all bookings made within 30 days of travel
  • Full payment Is required within 48 hours of your booking. This payment can be made via bank transfer or credit card (Master/Visa).
  • For all bookings made more than 30 days of travel
  • A 50% deposit Is required within 48 hours of your booking and the balance 30 days prior to arrival. This payment can be made via bank transfer or credit card (Master/Visa).

Things to bring on Safari

  • A good pair of binoculars
  • A camera or video camera
  • Hats, sunglasses and sunblock
  • Appropriate clothes for weather conditions
  • A torch or headlamp
  • Safari guides or bird books are always handy
  • International converter plug for electronics

Levies are inclusive of VAT and subject to change without prior notice. They will be charged by the respective lodge to the guest's overall bill and paid at check-out.

Arrival / Departure times: Check in time 14h00 and Check out/ departure time 11h00.
Early check in and late check out subject to availability and charges may apply.

We recommend that adequate travel insurance be arranged for the duration of your holiday.