Safari experts & storytellers. Since 1991
Trust us to find you the rarest animals, the most spectacular wildlife events, the remotest landscapes and deeply meaningful cultural encounters!
This is a classic Big Five safari - taking you to the best places to see lions, leopards, elephants, rhinos and buffalo. Of course, you will also see plenty of other wildlife species, such as cheetahs, wild dogs and hyenas.
From the red earth and acacia-dotted plains of Madikwe Game Reserve to the wildlife-rich landscapes of Timbavati in the Greater Kruger, this journey combines two of South Africa’s most celebrated reserves.
Expect spectacular wildlife encounters and seamless flight connections.
Track the Big Five in two of Africa's finest reserves
Highlights
Big five country: Track Africa’s iconic species on guided drives through two exceptional reserves where lions, leopards, elephants, rhinos and buffalo move freely across diverse, untamed terrain.
Contrasting ecosystems: From Madikwe’s red earth and thornveld to Timbavati’s riverine forests and savannah woodlands, experience the full spectrum of South Africa’s wild beauty.
Expert guides: Join expert rangers and trackers whose skill and storytelling reveal the subtleties of the bush, from tracking prints in the dust to listening for alarm calls at dusk.
Elegant lodges: Unwind in intimate lodges that balance warmth and refinement, with fine cuisine, panoramic views, and time to reconnect in nature’s quiet rhythm.
Light aircraft flights linking these reserves, ensuring more time to enjoy the spectacular landscapes and wildlife encounters.
Locations
Madikwe Game Reserve is renowned for its excellent sightings of the Big 5, as well as wild dogs, cheetahs, and brown hyenas. The reserve occupies a transition zone between Kalahari thornveld and savanna bushveld and is topographically varied and fascinating. Volcanic inselbergs break the region’s woodlands and plains, while the Marico River adds riverine habitat along the eastern portion of the reserve, and the Dwarsberg Mountains dominate the southern skyline. Madikwe is owned by local communities who, in 1991, decided to stop farming to conserve their land more effectively and focus on safari tourism.
Timbavati, Greater Kruger, a private reserve that shares an open ecosystem with Kruger National Park, is home to the legendary Big Five (lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo and rhino) and other species, including cheetahs, wild dogs, zebras, hyenas and giraffes. Timbavati is especially known for excellent predator sightings and a low lodge density. Greater Kruger access is exclusive to lodge guests, ensuring a private wildlife experience.
Lodges
4 nights at Rhulani Safari Lodge (Madikwe Game Reserve). A luxurious, owner-run lodge offering spacious chalets with private plunge pools, panoramic bush views, and exceptional personal service.
4 nights at Bateleur Safari Camp (Timbavati Private Nature Reserve). A cosy, family-style lodge within a private concession, combining elegant comfort with authentic safari experiences and expert guiding in Big Five territory.
Timing
The ideal time to experience this safari is during the dry winter months from May to October, when mild days, cool evenings, and sparse vegetation make for superb wildlife viewing. September and October can be warm to hot. Wildlife concentrates at water sources, and predator sightings are excellent.
The green season, from November to April, brings lush scenery, newborn animals, and vibrant birdlife, a rewarding time for photography and quieter safaris. While mid-summer (December to February) can be hot and humid, both reserves remain accessible year-round, with excellent guiding and well-equipped lodges that ensure comfort in any season.
Price per person sharing
8 nights (9 days) | ||
Throughout the year | from ZAR 109,463 | |
Includes: All road transfers to lodges, light aircraft flight from Joburg to Hoedspruit, accommodation throughout, all meals, local beverages and laundry, twice-daily shared game drives, park entrance and conservation fees, and 24/7 logistical support.
Excludes: International flights and airport taxes, visas, mandatory travel, cancellation and medical insurance, premium beverages, gratuities, optional activities not specified, and personal expenses.
Thank you!
We donate a portion of the revenue from every safari sold to carefully selected conservation projects that make a significant difference at ground level.
“Outstanding field guides”
Stefan Winterboer, South Africa safari expert: “Madikwe and the Timbavati produce some of South Africa’s finest field guides, reflecting exceptional standards and a deep conservation culture. Safaris here consistently deliver authentic wildlife experiences."
“Madikwe has my heart”
Our destination expert, Nadia Lautenbach, says, “Having guided in Madikwe for 17 years, this Big Five reserve is close to my heart – diverse, exciting, never dull. Quality lodges and quality guides elevate your safari experience!"
“Meaningful safari choice”
Our community manager, Sarah Goodman, says, “For me, choosing the Timbavati means backing hands-on conservation and community work. Eco-tourism directly funds anti-poaching and sustainability projects that all species.”
Start planning your dream safari
Our travel experts will craft a no-obligation itinerary just for you. We have crafted over 5,000 safaris since 1991. Your personal details are protected; we only use this information to contact you.
Why choose us to craft your safari?
Handcrafted experiential safaris since 1991.
Travel in Africa is about knowing when and where to go, and with whom. A few weeks too early/late or a few kilometres off course, and you could miss the greatest show on Earth. And wouldn’t that be a pity?
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Make a difference
We donate a portion of the revenue from every safari sold to carefully selected conservation projects that make a significant difference at ground level.
YOUR safari choice does make a difference - thank you!