Jamala Madikwe
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Molatedi Gate, Madikwe Game Reserve 2838 South Africa
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Prices above are provided by partners for one room, with variable occupancy rules as provided by the property, and do not include all taxes and fees. Please see our partners for full details.
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About
#2 of 23 Speciality lodging in Madikwe Game Reserve
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Travellers' Choice
Jamala Madikwe is an intimate and elegant safari lodge located within the 75 000 HA malaria-free Madikwe Game Reserve in South Africa's North West Province. Each of the five sumptuous and elegantly appointed suites offer private decks and rim-flow swimming pools. Madikwe is home to all of the Big 5 and most of Africa's top game species which includes a spectacular array of general game in addition to a very successful breeding program for the endangered wild dog.
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Property amenities
Free parking
Free High Speed Internet (WiFi)
Pool
Fitness Centre with Gym / Workout Room
Free breakfast
Airport transportation
Spa
Baggage storage
Wifi
Hot bath
Pool with view
Outdoor pool
Private pool
Bar / lounge
Restaurant
Massage
Concierge
Executive lounge access
Gift shop
Mosquito net
Non-smoking hotel
Butler service
Laundry service
Ironing service
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Room features
Bathrobes
Air conditioning
Desk
Fireplace
Coffee / tea maker
iPod docking station
Extra long beds
Complimentary toiletries
Safe
Seating area
Sofa
Wake-up service / alarm clock
Minibar
Refrigerator
Hair dryer
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Room types
Non-smoking rooms
Suites
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HOTEL CLASS
HOTEL STYLE
Luxury
Charming
Location
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460Reviews9Q+A100Room tips
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Popular mentions
We went for 4 nights in early February 2021, just after the very heavy and persistent rain following Hurricane Eloise. We chose Jamala after reading flyertalk.com, checking out the website of the lodge and reading the tripadvisor reviews. Prior to booking, we spoke with Nico, the general manager, about the rain situation at Madikwe. We were told that the rain had been heavy and unprecedented but that it was expected to clear up (no guarantee). We decided to chance it nevertheless. We used our regular car pick-up service which dropped us off at the Molatedi Gate where we were met by Mike, our game ranger for the duration of our stay. On arrival at the lodge, we were welcomed by Nico and his staff. We stayed in Villa #4. There are a total of 5 villas only (maximum 10 guests) and they are just as the promotional photos depicted: sheer luxury. We had our own plunge pool, lounge area and outdoor shower, all to ourselves. These are in an enclosed area which is part of the villa, fronted only by a low electric fence which separates us from the game reserve. From here, one can sit and watch the animals go past en route to the watering hole. They could in theory come as close as just a few yards in front of the villa. Inside, the bathroom with bathtub is huge and had everything that one could want. There is a sitting area and dining area separate from the bedroom, and there is a fireplace as well. In the walk-in dressing room, there are also a fridge, coffee maker, kettle, etc. The minibar is well stocked with soft drinks and bottled water. Red and white wine, sherry, gin, whiskey, snacks and fruits are all laid out and for these, they are all included in the rates. 2 game drives a day and they are a must. We were well served by our ranger Mike. He is very knowledgeable and friendly and we took to him immediately. One becomes blase very quickly about spotting this and that Big 5 animal. However, the most memorable experience for us was that we were introduced to the wild dog conservation programme of the game reserve and were privileged to watch the ongoing project taking place. The early morning game drive was followed by a very good breakfast. At 1500h, there is a high tea which is a scrumptious meal on its own. This is then followed by the 2nd game drive of the day. On return, dinner awaited us and this, we found to be of the highest standard, not just in South Africa but internationally. Nico, the general manager, is also the executive chef, has written 2 cookery books and is assisted by 2 chefs plus a pastry chef. We enjoyed very much the different wines on offer. For the less adventurous, there is always the house wine to fall back on. All the meals take place in the main lodge, which also has a lovely outdoor lounge, all in full view of the watering hole. In addition, there is an indoor lounge cum library. The fireplaces here will come in handy in the cold weather. We found time to make use of the general pool but did not have time to use the gym. The jacuzzi was unfortunately closed because of the lockdown regulations. But, we noted that there was also a spa on site. We were looked after very well by a large staff, we particularly remember Lawrence, Happi and Precious. Nico and Rodney the owner, were always present to ensure that all went well. 4 nights flew past and we were impressed beyond words. So much so that we have booked another visit in May, this time for 5 nights.…
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Date of stay: February 2021
Location
Cleanliness
Service
Room Tip: All 5 villas are good
All rooms are excellent
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Helpful
Response from Nico Verster, General Manager at Jamala Madikwe
Responded 1 week ago
Dear BlueEgg2014 Thank you so much for this concise and extensive review we so appreciate this. I am delighted that you could enjoy your time spent with us and we look forward to hosting you again in the future. All the best The Jamala-ian's
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After extensive research, we chose Jamala for our honeymoon and even though we read all the amazing reviews, our stay still managed to surpass high expectation. From the moment of booking/arrival, you will be welcomed and looked after as though you are part of the family. At Jamala, they have thought of absolutely every finer detail to make your stay as special as possible, with many little personalised surprises along the way; they are one step ahead of the game in terms of hospitality and luxury. On our first night, we were offered dinner in our lodge after a long journey. The chef's at Jamala are world class and you will have your taste buds tantalised at every meal. We were incredibly impressed with how Covid secure everyone/everything was, whilst still allowing us to unwind, relax and distance ourselves from the stresses of life - receiving a spa treatment during your stay is an absolute must. We would like to say a special thank you to: Rodney (one of the owners); KG our amazing ranger, who ensured we got to see the most amazing sights and also filled us with knowledge; Lawrence, who was always on hand to look after us and also to every other member of staff. "You cannot leave Africa, Africa said. It is always with you, there inside your head," Bridget Dore said and this pretty much sums up Jamala! If you are looking for a break from reality then look no further, you have found your destination! Stay safe Jamala and look forward to seeing you all again - we are already planning our return!…
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Date of stay: December 2020
Value
Service
Sleep Quality
Helpful
Response from Nico Verster, General Manager at Jamala Madikwe
Responded 1 week ago
Thank you so much for this awesome review. We appreciate every comment and look forward to having you return to Africa in the future
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Thank you Nico, Rodney & the Jamala team for always making our visit an incredibly special experience. The attention to detail is incredible and on each visit you have created something new to experience, always exciting ! Food is world class and we love the wonderful taste combinations Nico and his team creates. Sofa and pool safari's always deliver unexpected beauties and the game drives filled with wonderful wildlife and exceptional knowledge - We learn so much from every visit. Rooms are simply divine - spacious, luxurious and completely private with everything you need & the spa treatments are excellent. We cannot wait to see you again.
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Date of stay: November 2020
Value
Cleanliness
Service
Room Tip: All rooms are complete private.
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Response from Nico Verster, General Manager at Jamala Madikwe
Responded 15 Dec 2020
Dear Daniela It is always an absolute pleasure to have you stay with us, we enjoy all the time spent together and look forward to having you visit with us again in the future. Thank you for all the kind comments we will share it with the whole team. Thank you again and we can not wait to host you again.
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What a wonderful few days away from the world at Jamala Madikwe. Wonderful to be sitting by the waterhole and watching the endless amount of game come through with no idea what is happening in the world. The strict rules are adhered to all at times but it doesn't feel like a chore. Rodney and Nico as always such wonderful hosts and the staff are just sublime. Our lovely game driver, Mike, was always on hand to tell wonderful stories of the bush. The food was amazing with so much choice. A wonderful 4 days of semi-relaxation. But what a wonderful place to answer emails and sip on a glass of wine and watch the elephants mock fighting in the waterhole. Thank you to all. It was a lovely break and one that needs to happen very soon again.
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Date of stay: November 2020
Value
Service
Room Tip: amazing waterhole for sofa safari
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Helpful
Response from Nico Verster, General Manager at Jamala Madikwe
Responded 17 Nov 2020
Dear George Thank you so much for this kind review. I am so pleased that you could spend time with us and enjoy the healing touch of Africa. We are delighted to have you stay with us again and we look forward to your next visit.
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Thank you Jamala! Thanks to Nico, Ranger Mike and all the awesome Staff for spoiling us ♥️ we truly enjoyed our time with you, everything was perfect and beyond our expectations — super game drives, great food, friendly atmosphere and highly professional service, everything we needed and wanted was there for us. Well done, we’ll come back soon. Alessandro&Debbie
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Date of stay: September 2020Trip type: Travelled with family
1 Helpful vote
Helpful
Response from Nico Verster, General Manager at Jamala Madikwe
Responded 18 Sep 2020
Dear Alessandro, Debbie and Family We are so delighted to get such a nice review from you guys. Thank you so much for spending time with us. We really can't wait having you stay with us again in the future.
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PRICE RANGE
US$1 200 - US$1 742 (Based on Average Rates for a Standard Room)
LOCATION
South AfricaNorth-West ProvinceMadikwe Game Reserve
NUMBER OF ROOMS
5
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Claim Your Listing Frequently Asked Questions about Jamala Madikwe
What are some of the property amenities at Jamala Madikwe?
Some of the more popular amenities offered include free wifi, free breakfast, and a pool.
Which room amenities are available at Jamala Madikwe?
Top room amenities include a minibar, air conditioning, and a refrigerator.
What food & drink options are available at Jamala Madikwe?
Guests can enjoy free breakfast, an on-site restaurant, and a lounge during their stay.
Are there opportunities to exercise at Jamala Madikwe?
Yes, guests have access to a pool and a fitness centre during their stay.
Does Jamala Madikwe have an airport shuttle?
Yes, Jamala Madikwe offers an airport shuttle for guests. We recommend calling ahead to confirm details.
Is Jamala Madikwe accessible?
Yes, it offers wheelchair access. For specific enquiries, we recommend calling ahead to confirm.