Last Word Madikwe Review

A lion cub flees from an older male intent on killing him, taking refuge high on a mountain, in a scene reminiscent of The Lion King. Hyenas and jackals walk in and out of a decaying elephant carcass as they devour it. A lioness hunts an ostrich while a cheetah stalks an impala. A pair of rare black rhinos run for cover after being spotted. These were all scenes that unfolded before us on our recent visit to Madikwe Game Reserve. One of the largest and best private game reserves in South Africa, it is renowned for its exceptional wildlife sightings, malaria-free status and superb lodges, and we love going there at every opportunity we can.

However, the real magic on this trip was found within the hide at our lodge, Last Word Madikwe. Accessed via an underground tunnel from the garden, the hide is positioned at eye-level with an ancient waterhole, which is frequented by the wildlife from the surrounding bushland. With the waterhole floodlit at night, it offers 24/7 viewing. We’d visited many hides before but none as lively as this one, to the extent that we were torn between going on game drives (or doing anything else for that matter) or remaining at the hide to take advantage of the close-up photographic opportunities.

Elephants, rhinos, buffalos, zebras, wildebeest, impalas, warthogs and even hyenas came to hydrate themselves, often concurrently. Cats have been known to visit too. The elephants, in particular, favoured the water near the hide’s opening, coming so close that we could almost reach out and touch them. They would often curiously sniff us with their trunks.

View from the hide (Taken by my daughter and I)

My kids have been on many safaris, but I’d never seen my daughter so excited about photographing wildlife before. The proximity of the animals at the hide gave her ample opportunity to hone her photography skills, and she captured some beautiful photos and videos.

Main Lodge (Photo: Last Word Hotels)

Formerly known as The Bush House, the lodge has a rich history within Madikwe Game Reserve, as a private farmhouse dating back to the early 20th century. It was acquired in 2023 by Last Word Hotels, an elite collection of boutique hotels and lodges, and has since been transformed into an exclusive five-star safari lodge.

Villa Lounge

Our home for the weekend was the lodge’s newly launched private villa, one of the most exquisite bush abodes we’ve stayed in. Floor-to-ceiling glass windows and doors opened onto a deck with a plunge pool and fire pit, just metres away from the waterhole. With three en-suite bedrooms, a communal living area and a kitchen, it was ideal for our family of four, although it can accommodate larger families too. My kids were happy to have their own rooms and we were delighted to be able to keep an eye on the wildlife at the waterhole from our beds, as well as the indoor and outdoor showers.

Villa Bedroom

The villa exudes elegance and style, featuring an eclectic mix of African bush décor. Our kitchen was stocked with hot and cold beverages, rusks, cookies, and fresh fruit, while workout kits were available for those keen on maintaining their exercise routines.

Villa Dining Area

Toys were provided for younger kids, while a carefully curated selection of intriguing coffee table books, artworks, and games catered to both adults and older children. We made the most of them, and my family enjoyed quality time playing games every night. Villa guests also have access to a private game vehicle and a dedicated game ranger, allowing us to tailor our itinerary for each game drive.

Viewing rhinos from the villa pool

The main lodge, above the landscaped lawns, houses six other en-suite bedrooms along with lounging and dining facilities.

Main Lodge Lounge

Guests can relax on the cane swings in the garden or on the sun loungers at the rock pool, and there are nature trails within the lodge’s fences that can be self-explored.

Garden Swings

The food at the lodge was another highlight of our stay and even the picky eaters in my family enjoyed the meals there. Meal venues were alternated to add variety and the intimate nature of the lodge also made it easy for us to connect with our fellow guests during meal times. We were served ample brunches after the morning game drives consisting of hot dishes and cold buffets. High teas with light meals like loaded bruschettas and phyllo pastries were laid out before the afternoon game drives and three-course dinners were served at night.

Some of the food wee enjoyed

Our first dinner was at the boma, from where we observed a trio of rhinos and a hyena at the waterhole. We dined on prawn skewers and braaied fish, accompanied by a variety of sides, followed by malva pudding for dessert. On our second evening, we enjoyed honey and soy glazed Norwegian salmon with crème brûlée for dessert.

A family safari offers a unique opportunity to disconnect from everyday distractions and connect with nature. My family loved the villa, the food, the warm hospitality and the immersive wildlife experiences and we created lasting memories together.  

For more information, visit Last Word Madikwe or book here.

Good to know

The lodge is conveniently located near the Wonderboom gate of the reserve, so extended driving on gravel roads is unnecessary.

Rates include all meals and two daily game drives.

Photos do not do this beautiful lodge justice, so see my video tour below.

Sara Essop is a travel blogger and writer based in South Africa. She writes about family travel and experiences around the world. Although she has been to 49 countries thus far, she especially loves showcasing her beautiful country and is a certified South Africa Specialist.