ABOUT MADIKWE
The Madikwe Reserve is saturated in history and maintains the feeling of new discovery around every rock outcrop, grassy hill, and Acacia tree. The majestic Madikwe reserve is nestled between the southern border of Botswana and the Molatedi Dam in South Africa. It is named for the Marico River Basin that makes up the area. Local people had called this area home for thousands of years. Later, hunters, farmer, explorers, and adventure seekers traversed this region in the early 1800’s.
With other options available, it was decided by the government that the most practical use of the land that is now the Madikwe Reserve, be utilized for eco-tourism and conservation. Allowing the natural flora and fauna to take over again, the reserve became a positive upliftment of communities in the area. In 1991 it became an established reserve. Slowly, professional field researchers began reintroducing small herds of animals such as Cape Buffalo, Elephants, and Rhino. The reintroduction of predatorial animals was underway shortly after.
Once the perimeter fence had been completed in 1991, the reintroduction of game began. This relocation project was called Operation Phoenix. Coming together using a wealth of teamwork between private entities, the local communities, and the state roughly 8,200 animals were relocated here. This was the largest translocation project in history.
The Madikwe Reserve prides itself on the progress of the population of the near endangered Wild Dog. Due to human interference, rabies, and other diseases transmitted by its domestic canine cousin, these are one of South Africa’s most endangered creatures. Researchers are maintaining studies of the Wild Dogs’ positive progress so future generations are able to appreciate this amazing animal as well.
Now, the 75 000 hectares of land are considered home to the big five and other elusive species of animals. The Madikwe Reserve is a hidden gem, as it is not well known to the public. It is the fifth largest reserve in South Africa.
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WHAT WE HOPE TO SEE
The Big Five...
Lions, being the proverbial Kings of the Jungle, sit at the top of the food chain, and they really are a magnificent sight to see in the wild. The lions in Madikwe Game Reserve were originally introduced from Namibia’s Etosha National Park, with more recent additions introduced from the Kgalagadi Transfrontier National Park to expand the gene pool.
The African Elephant is the largest living terrestrial animal, and it’s one that you may not even need to leave your Madikwe Game Reserve safari lodge to see. There are over 900 elephants in the reserve (a very high density), and herds are known to visit lodge watering holes to bathe and drink.
The reserve is home to both black rhino and white rhino (although pedants will tell you that the latter aren’t technically part of the Big Five). You’ll have to look twice to spot the difference: the white rhino is larger and has a square lip that helps it to graze; while the black rhino is smaller and has a pointed lip for pulling leaves off plants. Black rhinos are also notoriously bad-tempered.
Buffalo are well represented in the reserve, with more than 800 of them roaming the plains. Two things to know about buffalos: they can be aggressive if they feel threatened; and they’re quite susceptible to disease… so don’t get too close.
Leopard, meanwhile, are the smallest of the big cats and are very hard to (forgive us!) spot. They tend to be elusive, solitary beasts, and a sighting is a very rare event.
The endangered African wild dog is also a delightful and exciting sighting to have - especially when hunting and on the move, simply trying to keep up with them is an adventure in itself1
Cheetahs are also quite popular in the Madikwe game reserve, preferring open grasslands for their high-speed hunting techniques and often found sat atop termite mounds to better scan the horizon.
Plus it's needless to say there's also an abundance of general game that are found at every turn in the reserve and include impala, wildebeest, zebra, warthog, giraffe, kudu, eland, springbok, gemsbok, klipspringer, steinbok, duike and many, many more.
Madikwe is also great for potential sightings of the elusive brown hyena, their more common relatie the spotted hyena, black backed jackels, honey badger, wildcats and potentially even caracal and serval too!
PHOTOGRAPHY
Madikwe offers countless photographic opportunities and potential, especially for that of unique landscape opportunities with it’s dual ecotone habitat. Elephants, rhinos and buffalos in these landscapes offer excellent wide angle opportunities, whislt predators such as lions, cheetah and wild dog will keep you on your toes and snapping away to capture all the action.
Madikwe’s red soil contrasts delightfully against the deep blue skies, giving you beautifully vibrant and truly unique wildlife photographs. Game drives are conducted throughout the year at optimum viewing times when game activity is generally at its peak, i.e. early morning and late afternoon into evening. The morning safari departs at sunrise, and the evening drive leaves late enough in the afternoon for guests to enjoy a bush sunset and the opportunity to view nocturnal animals after dark.
We will be utilising a private 4x4 landcruiser and field guide, meaning we have complete control and maximum flexibility to get the best photographs possible. Our photographic group will comprise a maximum of six guests, to ensure extra space and comfort whilst on game drive. A smaller group also means that more attentive and focused photographic guidance and tuition is possible. This includes in-the-field guidance and support, making sure you not only don’t miss a beat, but also discover new creative skills and techniques to elevate your photography.
Back at the lodge between drives is the perfect time and location to look at photo cataloging and processing. Open up your laptop and we can look for ways to further improve and streamline your editing skills in Adobe Lightroom and Photoshop.... or alternatively we can go over photography basics such as creative composition, the exposure triangle and freezing the action depending on your needs and wants. Your game drives will be conducted by one of the local field guides with plenty of experience and knowledge of the flora and fauna of the area. They will be the one sharing animal information to help build your knowledge and appreciation of everything you come across. This, plus photographic guidance, means you get the best of both worlds for an unparalleled photographic safari experience in one of South Africa’s best game reserves.
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PHOTOGRAPHIC HIDE
The first and original underground hide built in Madikwe! An incredibly exciting way to view all species of animals and birds as they come to drink at the edge of the floodlit waterhole. Photographic opportunities are endless irrespective of whether you’re using your phone’s camera or state of the art equipment. Have the awe-inspiring opportunity to watch elephants pass by close enough to touch, to watch them drink at an arm’s length away or to be splashed by a mischievous youngster. The roof of the hide is just above ground level is reinforced and can carry the weight of any elephant that may wander across the top.
The Underground Hide is accessed from a path within the lodge garden, or from the swimming pool, so guests can safely walk along the walkway and into the tunnel without being seen by the animals and in complete safety. This is one of the most unique qualities of what makes this Madikwe Photographic Safari so special; the varuation of game viewing opportunities. Spend the morning and afternoons on game drives where we track and find animals, and then take some time to see what animals come to you whilst you sit patiently with your camera.
The hide is open 24/7, meaning if you’re able to stay awake in the later hours, you may be treated to some nocturnal visitors or perhaps some thirsty predators. However, the star of the show is when elephants and buffalos come to drink; there’s nothing like being so close to such large mammals, especially from such a low perspective - it’s humbling and offers incredible photographic potential.
ABOUT YOUR HOST
Behind the banner of RAW Photographic is Samuel Cox, a professional wildlife photographer who spent many years in the field living in South Africa and teaching wildlife and conservation photography to international guests, volunteers and interns alike.
This gave him not only unparalleled access to the wildlife on his doorstep, but more importantly - the skills and years of experiences in teaching the specifics of ethical wildlife photography. This wealth of diverse, yet powerfully coupled traits, makes Sam unique amongst the crowd.
With RAW photographic safaris, Sam insist on delivering nothing but the best experience possible for his guests. Not only does he want to ensure a fun, educational and meaningful experience - it’s also important that we do so in a way that’s driven by authenticity and ethics.
A lot of research and effort goes into designing and building the products on offer and Sam only partners with those who mirror his ambitions in delivering great experiences whilst also remaining respectful to the land, wildlife and cultures we’re visiting.
For more about Sam and his photography, check out his website and socials via the icons below
ACCOMMODATION
In the spirit of oasis and sanctuary, The Last Word Madikwe is a completely unique lodge experience. Twice daily games drives to track the Big Five are an obvious favourite, but the true difference is to be found right at the lodge itself.
The house pours on to green and tranquil gardens which flow to the ancient waterhole just meters from the lawn’s end. It is a place most of the animals visit daily and one can see large interactive herds of elephant, lions, leopard, buffalo, dogs, white and black rhino, and many more just by relaxing in a garden seat enjoying a drink or snack. Madikwe’s original underground hide steals right up to the waterhole where aspiring photographers can catch the shot of a lifetime. Birdlife is abundant and although you will see many different species while out on game drive, many love to visit the inviting garden area and will often join you for breakfast. And it’s malaria free.
All Classic Suites are contained in the house just meters from the public areas and are appointed in traditional African decor. All are en-suite and have separate showers and bathtubs. Each also has its own private patio, air conditioning, work desk and many luxurious amenities. Rooms average at 45m² or 484 square feet.
ITINERARY
DAY 1
The safari starts in Johannesburg where you will be met at arrivals in the O.R. Tambo international and get taken to a local Boutique Hotel. This will be the place where you will meet Sam and get to know everybody in your small group. Take the time to relax after your long flight and enjoy a dinner with new friends before getting a good night sleep.
* Dinner, breakfast and local drinks are included
DAY 2
After a relaxed start to the day and and a hearty breakfast, we will then start the journey to Madikwe. The drive is appproximately four to five hours, and there will be a short break midway for a coffee / leg stretch. We aim to arrive in Madikwe just after noon. Upon arrival you’ll be welcomed and have time to settle into the lodge before regrouping for high-tea and our first afternoon safari to get fully introduced to the magic of Madikwe. We’ll get back to lodge around 19:00 to enjoy drinks before dinner shared with quality conversation.
DAY 3 - 7
We’ll head out around sunrise to take advantage of first light and the ensuing morning golden hour. Our focus will be on finding the best photographic subjects and wildlife experiences we can get; from looking for the large herds of elephants, occasional birding and of course, keeping on the lookout for predators. Having a private vehicle means the world is our oyster and we’ll decide as a groupwhat’s the best focus for each game drive. We’ll get back to camp in the mid to late morning for a delicious breakfast and some time to relax. This is also the perfect time to work with Sam on your photography and editing skills. Alternatively, the rooms are luxurious and cool, the pool is inviting, there’s a bar for drinks and don’t forget about the hide! Our second daily game drive will see us following up any sightings or information from previous drives - making sure that we stop at sunsets for the iconic sundowners experience. Dinner will follow as usual later in the evening upon return back to the lodge.
DAY 8
We’ll head out for our final game drive and exploration of Madikwe before returning back for breakfast. We aim to head out at about 11am so as to arrive back O.R. Tambo airport for mid / late afternoon, so it’s a good idea to pack the night before to save time and further enjoy your final hours at the lodge. After arriving back at the airport, we’ll say our “see you later”s and depart ways.
SUMMARY
Price
£3,950 per person sharing / £4,950 single supplement
Meeting / Drop-off Location
O.R. Tambo airport