Last Word Makanyane Factsheet
Factsheet for Last Word Makanyane
Let us take you by The Hand
Here, the bush feels quieter, more intimate, framed by riverine forest and the gentle rhythm of the Marico. At Last Word Makanyane, spacious suites face the ever flowing river, where birds call from the canopy and wildlife moves through the reeds below.
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, with 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 5 and abundant birdlife
- Set on 1,800 hectares of private land within the greater Madikwe wilderness area
- 8 Luxury Suites, all river-facing
- Morning and afternoon game drives led by experienced guides
- Private-land flexibility allows bespoke stops and experiences that are not always possible in the main reserve operating environment
- No children under 12
- Road transfers take approximately 4 to 5 hours from OR Tambo International Airport/Johannesburg, depending on the route
A Little Madikwe History
Established in 1991, 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, making it one of the largest game translocation and reintroduction programmes to have taken place in the world.
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 is usually returned the same day, subject to lodge capacity.
Wi-Fi
Available throughout the camp.
Safe
Located inside the wardrobe with instructions.
In-Suite Bar
Stocked daily. Special requests are welcome.
Air Conditioning
Adjust to your comfort using the remote in your room.
Fireplace
A private fireplace is provided in your suite.
Coffee Station
Available in your suite.
Hairdryer
Available in your suite.
In-Room Amenities
Bathrobes, slippers, shower cap, vanity kit, sewing kit, and environmentally friendly amenities are provided.
Mosquito Repellent
Provided in your suite.
Electricity
220V throughout. In the event of an 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 the sanitary bags provided and do not dispose of foreign objects in toilets.
In-Suite Fitness Basics
Yoga mat, light weights, and a resistance band are provided.
Food and Drink
Dining at Last Word 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 is 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 to 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 to 08:30 / 09:00
- Breakfast: Served after the morning drive
- Lunch: 14:00
- Afternoon game drive: 16:00 to 19:00 / 19:30
- Dinner: Served after freshening up from the afternoon drive
Winter Schedule
April to September
Crisp mornings, cool evenings, and fireside stories.
- Wake-up call: 06:00
- Coffee and tea: From 06:15
- Morning game drive: 06:30 to 09:30 / 10:00
- Breakfast: Served after the morning drive
- Afternoon tea: 15:00
- Afternoon game drive: 15:30 to 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
Enjoy behind-the-scenes conservation insight by arrangement, where applicable.
Township Tour
A community visit is available at an additional cost. Please ask management for details.
Best Time to Visit Madikwe
The best time to visit Madikwe is from May to September, during the dry winter, for outstanding game viewing as animals gather at water sources.
October to April, the wet summer or 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.
At Christmas: Santa Shoebox Project
One shoebox, one child, one unforgettable Christmas.
