What to do in Madikwe Game Reserve

An African Wild Dog at the Madikwe Game Reserve. Photo: flowcomm / Flickr

Besides enjoying the splendor of the African bush, there are lots of things to do at Madikwe and its surrounds. Drive to the tiny town of Groot Marico for a little dose of history.

Game drives

Why you should experience it: As an exclusive game reserve, reserved for overnight stays only, visitors are guaranteed of quiet, uncrowded game viewings. The lodges will offer morning and afternoon game drives in their vehicles, which will usually be included in the accommodation rate.

African Wild Dogs

Why you should experience it: With so few African Wild Dogs, also referred to as Painted Dogs, left in the world, the opportunity to see them in the wild is a rare privilege. In 1994, six dogs were introduced into Madikwe Game Reserve and overcame various challenges. Today, three thriving hunting packs roam the park. For wildlife lovers and photographers, it’s a unique opportunity to see one of those beautiful and endangered creatures up close.

Cultural Safaris

Why you should experience it: Take a trip to one of the African villages surrounding the Madikwe Game Reserve to experience true African life and culture. Have significant interactions with the people of the local community and learn about their challenges, history and culture in a meaningful way.

How much does it cost: Enquire at your lodge for prices and arrangements.

Groot Marico

Why you should visit: While it’s about 120km from the Madikwe Park, history buffs should plan to make the detour to the blink-and-you’ll-miss-it town of Groot Marico. Nestled along the banks of the Marico River, the town has a famous literary association. The sleepy town is the backdrop for many of South African writer, Herman Charles Bosman’s, short stories.

The HC Bosman Living Museum was recreated to look exactly like the school in which the famous author taught in 1926 and gives a fascinating insight into his life, the town and its surroundings.

How to get there: The town lies just off the N4, between the towns of Swartruggens and Zeerust, en route to Botswana.

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