Last Word Makanyane is a luxurious lodge set in a peaceful bush-forest area in the north-eastern part of the Madikwe region, with all suites facing the Marico River.Makanyane is situated on 1,800 hectares of private land, offering a rarer kind of safari freedom; one-of-a-kind experiences and special stops can be arranged, without being bound by the same operating rules as lodges situated on Madikwe Reserve land.Between game drives, unwind by the pool or retreat to the privacy of your spacious suite, river views, birdsong, and the quiet pulse of the bush included.
Safari Information
- Located in the malaria-free greater Madikwe region, home to the Big Five and abundant birdlife.
- Makanyane is set on 1,800 hectares of private land within the greater Madikwe wilderness area.
- 8 Luxury Suites, all river-facing.
- Game drives (morning and afternoon), led by experienced guides.
- Private-land flexibility: because Makanyane operates on private land, bespoke stops and experiences can be arranged that aren't always possible in the main reserve operating environment.
- No children under 12.
- Road transfers: 4-5 hours from OR Tambo/Johannesburg (route dependent).
A Little Madikwe History
- Established in 1991, the Madikwe Game Reserve was developed as a three-way partnership between the South African Government, local communities and the private sector.
- Operation Phoenix was initiated and thousands of animals were relocated into the reserve over a period of years, one of the largest game translocation and re-introduction programmes to have taken place in the world to date.
In Room and House Services
- Laundry: Place laundry in the bag provided, in your bathtub, with the completed slip. If left in the morning, it's usually returned the same day (subject to lodge capacity).
- Wi-Fi: Available throughout the camp.
- Safe: Inside wardrobe with instructions.
- In-suite bar: Stocked daily, special requests welcome.
- Air conditioning: Adjust to comfort, remote in room.
- Fireplace.
- Coffee station.
- Hairdryer.
- Bathrobes, slippers, shower cap, vanity kit, sewing kit and environmentally friendly amenities.
- Mosquito repellent.
- Electricity: 220V throughout; in the event of interruption, a generator provides essential power until normal supply resumes.
- Water: Treated and safe to drink. Purified water is also provided in-suite and at mealtimes.
- Septic system: Please use sanitary bags provided, do not dispose of foreign objects in toilets.
- In-suite fitness basics: Yoga mat, light weights, and a resistance band.
Food and Drink
- Dining at Makanyane reflects the spirit of the bush: generous, fresh, and always in harmony with the rhythm of the wilderness.
- Each meal is prepared with care by our talented kitchen team, celebrating seasonal produce and warm hospitality.
- There's no room service here, but between game drives, sundowners, and starlit dinners, you'll never go hungry.
- Every meal is part of the Makanyane experience: generous, fresh, and served with genuine warmth.
Summer Schedule (October - March)
(Warm mornings, long golden afternoons, and starlit evenings)
- Wake-Up Call: 05:00
- Coffee and Tea: From 05:15
- Morning Game Drive: 05:30 - 08:30 / 09:00
- Breakfast: Served after the morning drive
- Lunch: 14:00
- Afternoon Game Drive: 16:00 - 19:00 / 19:30
- Dinner: Served after freshening up from the afternoon drive
Winter Schedule (April - September)
(Crisp mornings, cool evenings, and fireside stories)
- Wake-Up Call: 06:00
- Coffee and Tea: From 06:15
- Morning Game Drive: 06:30 - 09:30 / 10:00
- Breakfast: Served after the morning drive
- Afternoon Tea: 15:00
- Afternoon Game Drive: 15:30 - 18:30 / 19:00
- Dinner: Served after freshening up from the afternoon drive
Leisure and Outdoor
- Swimming Pool: A tranquil place to cool off between drives, surrounded by bush and birdsong.
- Game Drives: Twice daily, morning and afternoon, led by experienced guides.
- River Viewing: Suites and decks overlook the Marico River — ideal for birding, reading, and slow safari moments.
- Game Walks: Available by arrangement; the pace and distance can be tailored to you.
- In-room treatments: Wellness and beauty treatments can be arranged in the privacy of your suite (subject to availability and advance notice).
- Mammal and Bird Checklists: Available in your suite; compare sightings with your guide.
- Reserve Operations Room Tour: Behind-the-scenes conservation insight (by arrangement, where applicable).
- Township Tour: Community visit available at additional cost (ask management).
Best Time to Visit Madikwe
- The best time to visit Madikwe is May to September (Dry Winter) for outstanding game viewing as animals gather at water sources.
- October to April (Wet Summer/Green Season) brings lush landscapes, baby animals, and excellent birding.
Making a Difference, Together
- At Last Word, we believe travel should leave more than footprints: it should leave hope, opportunity, and a better tomorrow.
- Every stay with us directly contributes to the people and wildlife who make our world so extraordinary.
- Supingstad Community Support: Local upliftment through employment, education, and infrastructure support.
- And at Christmas... Santa's Shoebox Project: One shoebox, one child, one unforgettable Christmas.
