Madikwe Game Reserve

North West Province, South Africa

The Madikwe Game Reserve is one of South Africa’s premier game reserves and covering 75 000 hectares is the fourth largest in the country. The reserve is in a malaria free area and is situated in a transition zone between the arid Kalahari of the west and the rugged bushveld of the east. Madikwe thus hosts a tremendous variety of habitat types which in turn result in an exceptional diversity of animal species. The Big Five reserve hosts all the larger game species synonymous with the Africa including a high density of lions, both black and white rhino, feisty elephant herds and Madikwe’s famed African Wild Dog population. Madikwe is one of the best places in Africa to view this rare predator in the wild. Although still elusive, leopard sightings have been improving and brown hyenas are commonly sighted foraging for meals. The topography is characterised by endless flats disappearing in to the horizon sporadically broken by the rocky outcrops of the Tshwene hills and the Dwarsberg mountains in the south. The perennial Marico River forms the eastern border which is a life blood to the area.

Madikwe is a relatively young African game park having been formed in 1991 and it is an amazing conservation story. Following research on what would be the most viable and stimulating land use for this traditionally economically depressed area, it was concluded that ecotourism was the best option to uplift local communities. North West Parks Board subsequently acquired a number of farms in the area, removed internal fencing and created the 75 000 hectare property that is now Madikwe. Operation Phoenix, the largest game re-introduction programme of its kind in that over 8000 head of game were re-introduced in to the area, helped restore wildlife levels to their natural equilibriums. Today Madikwe has an amazing variety of mammal species for a reserve of its size and the bird life is excellent. Madikwe boasts:

• Over 350 species of birds have been recorded there.
• 60 larger species of mammal.
• Over 40 tree species
• And over 20 reptile species

Madikwe is a provincial reserve under the custodianship of the North West Parks Board. However unlike other provincial reserves and national parks it does not allow day visitors on to the property. Only guests staying at one of the commercial or private lodges can have the privilege of being able to explore the Madikwe wilds. Madikwe is a great example of a successful public-private initiative in conservation. The private camps and lodges are generally aimed at the high to top end market and by and large offer exceptional service and accommodation standards.

• Madikwe Hills
• Tuningi Safari Lodge
• Rhulani Safari Lodge
• Thakadu River Camp
• Tau Game Lodge
• Buffalo Ridge
• Royal Madikwe
• Rhulani Safari Lodge
• Jaci’s Tree Lodge
• Jaci’s Safari Lodge
• Motswiri

Located on the South African and Botswana border, Madikwe is a four to five hour drive from Johannesburg and Pretoria and there are daily scheduled flights from Johannesburg that take approximately one hour. The closest city is Botswana’s capital Gaborone which usually takes under an hour to get to including border control processes. There are several entrance gates to the reserve and it is also located within an hour’s drive of Sun City.

The Sabi Sands

Mpumalanga Province, South Africa

Located in the Mpumalanga Province adjacent to the Kruger National Park is the renowned Sabi Sands Game Reserve (officially known as the Sabi Sand Wildtuin). The Sabi Sands is one of the premier wildlife and safari destinations on the continent and is famous for its excellent Big Five viewing, particularly its leopard as this reserve is arguably the best place in Africa to view this beautiful and elusive cat. The 65 000 hectare reserve has an excellent biodiversity which includes:

• Over 300 species of birds
• Over 100 tree species
• Over 30 reptile species
• And over 50 large mammal species

The reserve is made up of a number of different terrain types including riparian vegetation, acacia and mixed woodland, open grassland, non- perennial tributaries and small to large kopjes (rocky outcrops). Two major river systems are found on the reserve which are the Sand River and the Sabi River. Both of these are perennial and are very productive game and bird areas. The Sand River is the life blood of the reserve and flows through its interior for approximately fifty kilometres whilst the Sabi River forms part of the southern boundary.

The Sabi Sands Game Reserve is the oldest private reserve in South Africa having been formed in 1934. Today it is made up of a collection of private reserves which are open to one another forming this world famous conservancy. The Sabi Sands shares a fifty kilometre border with the Kruger National Park, the fences having been pulled down in 1993 allowing it to become part of the Greater Kruger National Park. This has allowed the free movement of large numbers of game between the reserves such as large herds of buffalo and elephant.

The Sabi Sands boast some of the most unique and luxurious game lodges and camps in South Africa. Lodges and camps within the Sabi Sands are mostly made up of four and five star retreats and offer broad accommodation and experiences to suit almost anybody. Apart from having a reputation of the best game viewing in the country, the lodges and camps also offer incredible service and superb comfort. Guests are treated like royalty whist being spoilt with amazing activities and delicious cuisine to exciting and adventurous game drives and walks. Knowledgeable guides and interesting trackers help guests to experience the African bush as they seek out the local wildlife often tracking their spoor or by reading other signs of the bush. On drives guests will set out in open 4x4 vehicles in the early mornings or late afternoons allowing them better chances of seeking out the Big Five and the other diverse wildlife the reserve has to offer allowing for excellent photographic opportunities.

Sabi Sands Reserves and Lodges:

• Chitwa Chitwa
• Simbambili
• Elephant Plains
• Sabi Sabi
• Djuma
• Singita
• Savanna
• Mala Mala

The Sabi Sands Game reserve is easily accessible by both road and air. Shaws and Newington Gates are approximately five hours drive from Johannesburg whilst Gowrie Gate is seven hours away. Some of the private reserves have their own airstrips which can be accessed by private charter whilst Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport is two hours from Shaws and Newington Gate and road transfers are available.

Shamwari Private Game Reserve

Eastern Cape Province, South Africa

As one of the leading game reserves in the Eastern Cape, Shamwari has set the benchmark for conservation and restoring previous farmlands to plains abundant with game. Shamwari Game Reserve covers an impressive 25 000 hectares and is in a malaria free area. Once considered to be one of the richest wildlife areas in Africa, the Eastern Cape’s natural fauna was all but wiped out by uncontrolled hunting, agriculture and drought. In 1992, Shamwari began what would become one of the world’s most famous conservation success stories by slowly acquiring farm land, introducing animals that once occurred in the area and actively aiding the re-establishment habitats and ecosystems. Great numbers of game that once occurred in the area were slowly re-introduced. In addition some hotly debated species such as the Giraffe (which are believed by some to have not occurred naturally in the eastern cape in times gone by) were also introduced on to the property. The re-introduction programme was like no other and also targeted smaller creatures. The reserve’s wildlife team successfully re-introduced the locally endemic Flightless Dung Beetle and the Red-billed Oxpecker bird.

The blend of valley bushveld, savannah grassland, fynbos, riverine areas and acacia woodland produce an ideal setting for great game viewing. The reserve has a high carrying capacity and most of the typical game species of Africa are found here. The Bushman’s river meanders through the reserve adding an interesting aquatic element to a safari experience and provides a great refuge for exciting bird species such as kingfishers, darters, finfoots and the iconic african fish eagle. Rocky outcrops interspersed with euphorbia trees and shrubbery provide great vistas and the large open plains are ideal for spotting larger game. Thickets create idyllic conditions for shier antelope that prefer the shelter of the bushes and trees. Once the evidence of farming clears completely, the reserve will be almost Eden-like and a true paradise for visitors wanting to experience the African bush. The south of the reserve is dominated by large open areas. Lodges are located in a small ‘rural’ zone on the reserve to lessen the impact on the environment but can unfortunately be seen from many vantage points in the south of the property. The north is mountainous with rolling rocky hills and thickly vegetated valleys.

Wildlife sightings and general game viewing on the reserve are arguably some of the best in the Eastern Cape. Even the elusive leopard viewing is improving (although its not on the same level as some of the Lowveld reserves). Due to their high value, the disease-free buffalo population are kept on a separate 3500 hectare ‘breeding’ section of the reserve along with various antelope that Shamwari breeds with to restock the reserve when required. This helps to ensure good game numbers at all times. The wildlife department is active in maintaining the delicate ecological balance and taking care of the health and safety of the animals.

Located on the reserve are two Born Free Foundation centres, the Julie Ward Animal Rescue Centre and the Jean Byrd Born Free Animal Rescue Centre. They provide a haven for African animals rescued from zoos and circles around the world. In addition there is also an animal rehabilitation centre. All of these form an educational part of the Shamwari experience.

Shamwari continues to be an example of what a conservation minded approach to ecotourism can achieve. Shamwari has shown how conservation and commercial tourism can work together with the underlying aim of making a positive contribution to the environment. From de-habilitated farmlands twenty years ago to its present state as a successful game reserve, the property now boasts:

• Over 250 species of birds have been recorded there,
• 60 larger species of mammal,
• Over 60 tree and plant species
• And over 25 reptile species

Shamwari does have a public road that travels through the reserve which can bring in a little extra traffic at times, however no day game drives are permitted on the reserve ensuring exclusive viewing for guests staying at Shamwari. All of Shamwari’s lodges are graded 5 Star establishments and offer excellent service and are a most comfortable retreat for any visitor. The lodges are styled in a traditional Eastern Cape farmhouse fashion other than the Bayete Tented Camp and the colonial hotel styled Long Lee Manor. All are modernly furnished and have the latest accessories.

• Long Lee Manor
• Bushman’s River Lodge
• Eagle’s Crag
• Riverdene
• Lobengula
• Riverdene
• Sarili
• Bayete

Shamwari is located one hour from Port Elizabeth and is easily accessible from the N2 highway. There are daily flights to and from Port Elizabeth airport and Shamwari can assist with arranging transfers to the reserve. There are different gates to access the various lodges and there is no entrance fee. The reserve has a landing strip for private charter flights direct to the reserve.

Timbavati and Klaserie

The Timbavati and Klaserie Game Reserves are neighbouring conservancies open to each other and situated on the border of the Mpumalanga and Limpopo Provinces open adjacent to the famous Kruger National Park. The 53 392 hectare Timbavati was formed in 1956 and is a wildlife rich region consisting of a mixture of productive open woodland and species unique mopane bushveld. The Timbavati, which was once land used for cattle and crop farming, is made up of a conservancy of private land owners, all of whom have a common conservation aim and there are twelve luxury tourist lodges found on the reserve.

A major benefit of experiencing a safari in this area is that the density of lodges and vehicles is less than most other reserves in the Lowveld region thus providing one with a more exclusive and intimate bush experience. The Timbavati is home to a large number of wildlife species including the Big Five, excellent general game and other fauna and flora. Large herds of elephant and buffalo frequent the area fairly regularly whilst the leopard viewing is some of the best in the country after its southern and better known cousin - the Sabi Sands Game Reserve. The reserve is particularly famous for its ‘White Lions’ of which many books have been written and documentaries made. Chris McBrides ‘White Lions of Timbavati’ book is the most well known. These rare and unique lions are purely white, caused by specific evolutionary pigmentation, known as leucism, which is not a form of albinism. However these lions are extremely rare and only recently were white lion cubs born after an absence of over a decade.

The 60 000 hectare Klaserie Game Reserve is generally flatter than the Timbavati and is made up of rugged bushveld terrain dominated by mopane bush as well as its flagship marula and leadwood trees. The Klaserie River is the life blood to the area and attracts good concentrations of game to its banks – especially in the dryer months. As with the Timbavati this area has a small vehicle and lodge density and has very few commercial lodges operating within its borders.

The Timbavati and Klaserie reserves are home to:

• 63 species of large mammal
• 264 bird species
• 85 trees
• And 55 species of reptile.

There are a number of lodges and camps in both the Timbavati and Klaserie including many private properties. Commercial operations in the area range from very basic tented walking safaris to one of the most luxurious camps in South Africa. There is something for all budgets in this area. Lodges and camps include:

Timbavati:

• Kings Camp
• Tanda Tula
• Umlani

Klaserie:

• Africa on Foot
• Transfrontiers Walking Safaris

Both the Timbavati and Klaserie Game Reserve are easily accessible by road and air. Private charters can be flown directly into certain properties within the Timbavati and Klaserie whilst there is also the East Gate Airport outside of Hoedspruit which is approximately thirty minutes drive from the main gates of the reserves. Other airports which can be used are Phalaborwa which is 90 minutes away and Kruger Mpumalanga International which is three hours away. Transfers between the airport and the lodges and camps can be arranged usually at additional cost. Driving time between Johannesburg and these reserves takes approximately six hours. The Timbavati and Klaserie reserves are located in a Malaria area and visitors should follow precautions and recommendations given by their GP’s.

Private Game Reserves in Africa

The concept and popularity of private game reserves has grown over the last few decades in Southern Africa and neighboring countries. A significant portion of land (particularly in South Africa) is protected under private land ownership. Most of this private land once had different uses ranging from cattle farming, agriculture and hunting. Today however many of these private reserves are having a positive and remarkable effect on the biodiversity of fauna and flora. Old degraded land, through extensive conservation methods and procedures, has been restored close to what it once was and protects and conserves ecosystems and other elements such as historical and geological sites.

Private reserves are often perceived to only cater for the rich and famous who pay exorbitant rates for the utmost in safari luxury. This is most definitely not the case today. There is a wide variety of accommodation choices available from backpacking budget level right up to award winning lodges and camps. Given the exclusivity and smaller numbers of guests accommodated in most cases, one usually gets a more intimate nature experience. Although prices in private reserves are higher (often substantially at the top end) than those of National Parks and Provincial Reserves, if one can afford to visit one of these the experience is worth it. Private reserves are usually well stocked with wildlife and although some may be fairly small, many are of a substantial size. Game drives are taken in open vehicles and in some of these reserves driving off road is allowed allowing one to get up close and personal with Africa’s wildlife. One can experience animal behavior intimately and learn a great deal from trained guides and trackers that usually lead safari activities. In most private reserves guests are accompanied by expert rangers and trackers who locate and follow the fauna and flora whilst providing fascinating information and stories. That said some reserves are mismanaged and have staff that are not qualified and experienced to lead a game drive, walk or other activity. We aim to highlight these whilst promoting well managed and properly run private reserves.

Activities in private reserves vary with game drives and walks being the most common. However if one is interested in a more specialized safari these can be catered for in certain reserves:

• Game Drives
• Walks
• Walking Safaris
• Horse Safaris
• Elephant- back Safaris
• Fishing
• Birding Safaris
• Snorkeling and Scuba Diving
• Turtle Safaris

Some private reserves have dropped fences with other reserves and National Parks thus being incorporated into larger, often massive, tracts of land benefitting from economies of scale and various synergies. An example of this is the Greater Kruger National Park where private reserves (such as the Sabi Sands Game Reserve and Timbavati game reserves) have dropped fences with the Kruger National Park. By doing this private reserves follow conservation policies similar to those of the National Park they have been incorporated into. The benefits of this are massive. No longer are game movements restricted by fences to smaller areas but instead allowing them to follow migratory routes (to some extent) roaming between the reserves. This is also beneficial to certain species which need large amounts of space in which to move and feed in. Elephants in particular are in dire need of more land as when confined to small reserves or regions with high populations these grey giants can be extremely destructive feeders. If relocation is not possible culling is often the only solution of controlling population numbers.

A common form of private involvement in the safari industry in Africa is private concessions. Here a right to use a certain area within a park for a certain period is granted to private parties to set up private lodges and camps within the National Parks. These concessions are then granted exclusive traversing areas in which to go on game drives, walks etc. Normally these private concessions are ecologically managed by the respective National Park and the private operator focuses purely on hospitality management.

Apart from ecological benefits, private reserves and lodges also often have a positive effect on the surrounding communities. Many lodges and reserves are actively involved in their local communities in a variety of ways. Most hire the majority of their workforce from their immediate areas providing them with essential work experience and occasionally also provide courses and training to further develop the skills base. Secondly goods, services, curios and part time labour are often procured from these local communities helping boost the local economies. Some reserves and lodges go as far as sponsoring schools, clinics, individuals etc and developing infrastructure. More active involvement in Africa’s rural areas is desperately needed in order to ensure the sustainability of its land and its wildlife.

Welgevonden Private Game Reserve

Limpopo Province, South Africa

Welgevonden Private Game Reserve is found within the wilderness expanse of the majestic Waterberg Mountain range in South Africa’s northern most Province Limpopo. Welgevonden means ‘well found’ which is a fitting description for this beautiful area which is made up rocky plateaus, open woodland and reclaimed farmland dissected by crystal clear streams, ravines and stony gorges. The 36 000 hectare malaria-free reserve is home to large numbers of wildlife, many of which have been recently re-introduced, including members of the Big Five, other general game and over 300 species of bird of which South Africa’s national bird - the blue crane - is a rare and special member.

The impressive bio-diversity of Welgevonden includes the following species:

• 56 mammal species
• 139 tree species
• Over 300 bird species
• 32 reptile species
• 16 amphibian species

Although seldomly visited, there are a few Bushman painting sites on the property which provide an interesting cultural element to a typical safari experience. Welgevonden is part of the Waterberg Mountains, which is aptly named after all the rivers and streams which carve the landscape, and forms part of the Waterberg Biosphere. This 150 000 hectare biosphere was established in 2001 so as to further strengthen conservation and social initiatives in the Waterberg. Welgevonden lies adjacent to Marakele National Park and there are plans in place to remove the fences and unite these two fantastic reserves to form one of South Africa’s largest public-private conservancies.

There is a high density of lodges on Welgevonden each owning 500 hectares of land but having traversing rights over the entire property. The luxurious lodges are generally small and intimate in nature accommodating a maximum of ten guests. The higher density of lodges however does little to detract from the exceptional bush and wilderness experience that you will have at Welgevonden. Activities include anything from game drives and safari walks to star gazing and spa treatments depending on where one stays.

Lodges on Welgevonden:

• Shibula Lodge and Spa
• Nungubane Game Lodge
• Mhondoro Game Lodge

Welgevonden is easily accessible and the reserve gates are a short two and a half hour drive from Johannesburg. Getting to the lodges may take longer as guests are met at the gates and transferred to their respective lodge. There are airstrips on the reserve for those wishing to charter in private flights which only take forty five minutes from Johannesburg.

Thornybush Game Reserve

Set against the backdrop of the majestic Drakensberg Mountains and lying adjacent to the Kruger National Park and Timbavati Nature Reserve (but separated by a fence line) is one of the Lowvelds premier private reserves – the Thornybush Game Reserve. The 11 500 hectare reserve was once part of a farming region which focused on livestock and agriculture however thanks to the foresight of certain individuals this was changed and the reserve was proclaimed in 1979.

The area is made up of mostly mixed woodland and open savannah which is bisected by a number of dry riverine tributaries. The northern section of the reserve is made up mostly of attractive open areas and small clearings whilst the south, which has a higher rainfall, is comprised of mixed veld and dense stands of large trees. Because of the variation in habitat types and ecosystems the biodiversity is quite high. The reserve is home to a diverse number of fauna and flora and the game viewing is excellent. Of the mammals here there is good general game, the Big Five including black and white rhino and cheetah. Temperatures are generally pleasant in Thornybush. Summers (rainy season) consist of hot days and warm evenings with occasional thunderstorms whilst winters (dry season) have pleasant days and mild to cold evenings. Species which can be seen are:

• Over 55 large mammal species
• 264 bird species
• Around 85 trees
• And 55 species of reptile.

There is a high density of camps and lodges in the reserve and the reserve. Most activities in Thornybush Game Reserve are based around safaris and the wildlife however there are other options. Game drives and walks are the most popular of these with skilled guides and trackers helping guests to experience the African bush as they seek out the local wildlife often tracking their spoor or by reading other signs of the bush. Other activities include hides, visits to the cheetah breeding project, local cultural tours, white water rafting and trips to the nearby Blyde River Canyon and the Drakensberg Escarpment.

Thornybush Camps and Lodges

There is a variety of accommodation in the Thornybush Game Reserve ranging from reasonable self catering camps to ultra luxurious lodges such as:

• Thornybush Game Lodge
• Waterbuck
• Nkaya
• Royal Malewane
• Shumbalala
• Nkelenga
• Serondella
• Chapungu

Thornybush Game Reserve is easily accessible by both road and air. The reserve is five to six hours drive from Johannesburg or an hour’s flight. The closest airport is the Eastgate Airport which is approximately thirty minutes drive away and transfers are available. Other airports which can be used but not as close are Phalaborwa and Kruger Mpumalanga International (Nelspruit). Some of the lodges have their own private airstrips which can be accessed by private charter.