Last Word Madikwe is an intimate and luxurious retreat located in the heart of the malaria-free Madikwe Game Reserve. Originally an old family farmhouse, it has been transformed into a 5-star sanctuary where guests can relax and immerse themselves in nature. Managed with a personal touch, Last Word Madikwe prides itself on its exceptional service and attention to detail, ensuring every guest feels at home.
Whether it’s the warm welcome at the brunch table after your morning game drive or the meticulous preparation of dinner dishes, these little luxuries make for an unparalleled South African experience.
You are invited to make Last Word Madikwe your home in the magnificent malaria-free Madikwe Game Reserve.
Accommodation
Last Word Madikwe offers a choice of six beautifully appointed Classic Suites or an exclusive Three-Bedroom Private Villa, each providing a comfortable and private base from which to experience the Madikwe bushveld. From traditional African décor and private patios to the villa’s secluded swimming pool and views of a wildlife-rich waterhole, the accommodation combines thoughtful comfort with an immersive setting in the wilderness.
Classic Suites
The six Classic Suites are housed together in the main house, just metres from the public areas, and are appointed in traditional African décor. Each spacious suite offers privacy and comfort with views of the Madikwe bushveld, together with a private patio and a range of luxurious amenities. The en-suite bathrooms feature both a walk-in shower and a large corner bath, creating a comfortable retreat after a day in the wilderness.
- 45m² (484 sq. ft.)
- King bed, with twin option on request
- En-suite bathroom with walk-in shower and large corner bath
- Air conditioning
- Private patio
- Work desk
- Robes and slippers
- Complimentary minibar and gin station
- Tea and coffee tray
- Free Wi-Fi
- Room safe
- Healing Earth amenities
Three-Bedroom Private Villa
The Three-Bedroom Private Villa is an exclusive haven designed for families or groups seeking comfort and privacy. Two spacious en-suite bedrooms accommodate up to two adults each, while a cosy kids’ room comfortably sleeps three little adventurers. Guests can relax in the private lounge, take a refreshing dip in the private swimming pool, or enjoy breathtaking views of the waterhole where the Big 5 roam freely, day and night. As evening falls, the private firepit provides a beautiful setting to unwind while the sounds of the wilderness create an unforgettable atmosphere.
- Three elegantly designed en-suite bedrooms
- Two bedrooms accommodating up to two adults each
- Kids’ room
- Private lounge
- Private swimming pool
- Views of the waterhole and surrounding wildlife
- Private firepit
- Private game drive vehicle
- Private boma
- Private viewing deck
- Views of wildlife throughout the villa
Facilities
Enjoy relaxing in Last Word Madikwe’s large shaded garden that overlooks a very active watering hole, which some say is the best in all of Madikwe. Or lounge poolside while the staff caters to your every need.
- Lounge
- Dining room and bar
- Reading area
- Boma dining area and breezeway
- Rock swimming pool with sun loungers
- Complimentary wireless internet access
The Underground Hide
Experience wildlife from an entirely different perspective at Madikwe’s original underground photographic hide, discreetly positioned at the edge of the ancient waterhole. Offering unlimited access throughout the day and night, the hide places guests at eye level with the wildlife as they gather at the water, providing an intimate vantage point for observing and capturing unforgettable moments in the wild.
Bush Dining
The chefs at Last Word Madikwe collectively create a wonderful variety of culinary delights. Whether it is breakfast in the garden, afternoon tea, or a fireside dinner in the boma, expect international favourites and local dishes to tempt your palate daily.
Activities
At Last Word Madikwe, the wilderness comes remarkably close. From twice-daily safaris across the Madikwe Game Reserve to intimate wildlife encounters around the lodge’s ancient waterhole, guests can experience the bush in a variety of ways. Whether seeking exceptional Big Five sightings, memorable photographic opportunities, fascinating birdlife or a closer appreciation of the natural world, each activity offers a different perspective on Madikwe’s remarkable wilderness.
- Twice-Daily Game Drives: Explore the malaria-free Madikwe Game Reserve on morning and afternoon game drives in open safari vehicles, accompanied by experienced guides. Cooler hours offer excellent opportunities for wildlife viewing, with the chance to encounter the Big Five as well as cheetah, African wild dog and abundant birdlife. Madikwe permits off-road driving for predator sightings, allowing guides greater flexibility when seeking exceptional encounters. Families are also catered for, with a dedicated one-hour Kiddies Bumble Drive available for children under six who are unable to join the standard game drives.
- Ancient Waterhole: Just metres from the lodge’s manicured lawns, an ancient waterhole draws wildlife throughout the day and night. Elephants, buffalo, zebra, antelope and other species regularly gather at the water’s edge, while predators may also pass through. Guests can enjoy the spectacle from the gardens, main terrace or their private suite deck, making this a captivating wildlife experience without ever leaving the lodge.
- Photographic Hide: Discover Madikwe’s original underground photographic hide, positioned directly on the edge of the ancient waterhole. With unlimited 24-hour access, guests can settle into an unobtrusive, eye-level vantage point and wait for wildlife to arrive at the water, creating exceptional opportunities to observe and photograph natural behaviour.
- Nature Trail: A private on-foot trail within the lodge’s fenced grounds offers a gentler way to explore the bush. The trail provides an opportunity to discover the wildlife and natural sights often overlooked on game drives, encouraging guests to slow down and appreciate the fascinating details of the surrounding environment.
- Birdwatching: Madikwe’s abundant birdlife adds another dimension to the safari experience, with opportunities to observe a variety of species around the lodge, waterhole and reserve. The ancient waterhole is particularly rewarding for birdwatchers, attracting a constant flow of activity alongside the larger wildlife that comes to drink.
- Stargazing: As darkness settles over Madikwe, the sounds of the wilderness give way to the stillness of the African night. Away from the distractions of the city, guests can take time to look up and experience the beauty of the night sky, with the surrounding bushveld providing a naturally atmospheric setting for an evening beneath the stars.
Rate Inclusions
- Luxury accommodation
- Morning and evening game drives each day, including refreshments
- Three meals daily
- Teas & coffees
- All beverages such as soft drinks, waters, house wines, local spirits, local beers and ciders
- 15% VAT
Child Policy
- Children of all ages are welcome at Last Word Madikwe
- Children under six years of age not permitted on game drives unless the lodge has been booked exclusively by one group
- A private game drive vehicle is included with the Private Villa, allowing children under six years of age to participate in game drives
- “Kiddies Bumble” offered after breakfast each day for the little ones at no extra charge
- Babysitting facilities are available at additional charge.
