Madikwe Game Reserve is one of the few reserves in southern Africa, which is malaria free. Located in South Africa along the Botswana border and 20km from Gabarone, the reserve lies within a transition region between Lowveld Bushveld and the Kalahari Thornveld. The tremendous diversity of fauna and flora includes the black and white rhino, buffalo, elephant, lion, leopard, cheetah and wild dog. Buffalo Ridge Safari Lodge is a five star lodge situated on a prime site in the west of the Madikwe Game Reserve, straddling the Tweedepoort Ridge with expansive views across the northern plains and Inselbergs. As the first community owned lodge the inception of this exclusive lodge has an exceptionally inspiring story to it in terms of local community upliftment, business smart, outstanding management and of course, breathtaking location and lavish accommodation.
Offering a very private experience, Buffalo Ridge Safari Lodge has eight uniquely decorated suites, each with their own deck which provides guests with expansive views to the north. This 8-room (16-bed) luxury facility, which has been in operation for just over a year, was skillfully designed to blend with the beauty of the natural surrounds. Decorated in natural hews of colour and texture, the thatched suites have sliding doors from each room and shower which allow the guest to fully experience the concept of complete integration with the bushveld. The main lodge sits on the slopes of a hill across a ravine, separating it from the chalets. Spectacularly located on two tiers of the ridge, the main lodge is accessed via a wooden bridge that crosses a ravine surrounded by rock fig trees. The dining room and pool are located on the upper tier and the reception, lounge and sun deck on the lower tier. Each of the living areas has its own character, mood and style providing the guests with a selection of breathtaking views and tranquil spaces.
Morning and afternoon/evening game drives in open game viewing vehicles, bush sundowners and drink stops in the Reserve, visits to hides. Madikwe is a big 5 game reserve including elephant, black and white rhino, leopard and lion and is renowned for its wild dog population. It also has over 350 different species of birds. Community visits can be arranged with prior notice.
Buffalo Ridge is easily accessible by Private charter or on the daily Federal Air / Madikwe Shuttle into Madikwe Western Airstrip just 30 minutes from Buffalo Ridge through the reserve. Buffalo Ridge Safari Lodge is a 3 and a half hours drive from Johannesburg on the N4.
