It was a wintry weekend in Cape Town, and we followed the rain north on our way to the Madikwe Game Reserve. Not exactly prime conditions for a much-awaited Safari, but when we reached Jamala Madikwe, we couldn’t really care less!
The lodge is simply heavenly. Thatched roofs and stone walls combine to create an earthy, African feel that is only matched by the elegance of the furnishings. African artwork adorns the walls, and there are antiques and sculptures to boot. A fire roared away in the lounge, particularly inviting with a glass of Merlot from the cellar room. At this point even us Rhino Africans were impressed. And when we saw the villas, we were blown away.
There are five villas in total, so the lodge really does ensure an exclusive experience. Each villa is massive, with rooms large enough to host a whole family, high ceilings and well-appointed en-suite bathrooms. Space is clearly no obstacle here, nor is decadence, and each villa opens out onto a wooden deck with sizeable private plunge pool and sala. Throw in an outdoor shower and some sun loungers – and you really have little reason to leave!
We did leave our rooms though, and congregated on the main deck, enjoying the first of many superb meals at Jamala. The views of the scrub and rolling plains are breathtaking and the lodge overlooks a waterhole which teems with wildlife throughout the day. Antelope, plains game and even lion made their way here – so even though the weather was not really suitable for game drives, we were still able to enjoy some great wildlife viewing!
On the Sunday morning, we were awoken by a sudden roar. It sounded close, and it was. A lion had walked into camp and was nestled just outside the villas, lounging about in the gardens and roaring at will. It was one of those stories that game rangers tell you, but rarely ever happens. Except this time it did.
The owners, Shaun and Rodney, are exceptionally friendly and hands-on. No detail was spared in making our holiday unforgettable, and they relished our company, even though we tried our best to drink their wine cellar dry in one evening! The lodge is about 8km from the nearest accommodation, away from the high density section of Madikwe, so you will not be sharing this wilderness with guests from any other lodges. Furthermore, this southern section is renowned for its game, and abounds with the Big Five, as well as cheetah, wild dog, oryx, springbok and eland. The diversity of wildlife and birds rivals that of the Kruger, and the prices are certainly more reasonable.
We have visited a fair number of Safari lodges in our time, but Jamala left an indelible impression. It is one of the most luxurious and exclusive lodges in the malaria-free Madikwe Reserve, intimate and elegant, forming the ideal private or romantic getaway. Now we just have to find a reason to be back!
Sounds good? Contact us to plan your Safari to Jamala Madikwe or anywhere else!