Only a few hours drive from Johannesburg are the malaria-free game reserves of the North West Province. Madikwe and Pilanesberg are ideal safari destinations for visitors to Jo'burg or Sun City who have limited time in Southern Africa and want to see some of Africa's spectacular scenery and wildlife without travelling to the Greater Kruger area.

Whilst both are relatively small compared with the 2.2 million hectare Greater Kruger Park, all of the major species of mammal are well represented, including the Big 5 (lion, leopard, rhino, elephant and buffalo) and as the population densities are high visitors stand a good chance of seeing a wide range of wildlife.

The safari lodges all offer a fully inclusive African safari including accommodation, all meals, 2 guided game drives per day in 4x4 vehicles, and an optional guided bush walk each day.

You can read more about what you can expect from a safari lodge here.

If you would like us to include a safari in one of these outstanding lodges as part of your trip to South Africa, please click here.

Alternatively if you are only looking to book just a safari you can either browse our selection of luxury safari lodges in both Madikwe and Pilanesberg below and book directly through this site, or ask us to recommend a safari based on your budget.

For self-drive safaris in this area, please see Pilanesberg National Park.