{"id":1903,"date":"2020-04-21T20:13:02","date_gmt":"2020-04-21T20:13:02","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/moafrikatours.com\/?p=1903"},"modified":"2023-11-24T06:38:12","modified_gmt":"2023-11-24T06:38:12","slug":"madikwe-game-reserve-versus-pilanesberg-game-reserve","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/moafrikatours.com\/madikwe-game-reserve-versus-pilanesberg-game-reserve","title":{"rendered":"Madikwe Game Reserve vs Pilanesberg Game Reserve"},"content":{"rendered":"<h1>Madikwe Game Reserve vs Pilanesberg Game Reserve<\/h1>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/moafrikatours.com\/tour-category\/madikwe-safaris\" data-cke-saved-href=\"https:\/\/moafrikatours.com\/tour-category\/madikwe-safaris\">Madikwe Game Reserve<\/a> and <a href=\"https:\/\/moafrikatours.com\/tour-category\/pilanesberg-safari-day-tours\" data-cke-saved-href=\"https:\/\/moafrikatours.com\/tour-category\/pilanesberg-safari-day-tours\">Pilanesberg Game Reserve<\/a> are two pristine protected conservation areas located in the North West Province of South Africa. Contrary to popular belief, Pilanesberg is not a national park; it\u2019s a public nature park that\u2019s overseen by a governing body.<\/p>\n<p>The game reserves are next-door neighbours. As the crow flies, they are approximately 75 kilometres from each other, although it\u2019s about a 2-hour drive (110 kilometres) door-to-door.<\/p>\n<p>Both game reserves boast a high concentration of game in a relatively small space and are home to the Big 5, which includes elephant, buffalo, rhino, lion and leopard. They lie in a transitional zone that spreads out eastwards from the south-eastern border of Botswana, where the dry, arid Kalahari Desert melts into the lush north-western Lowveld.<\/p>\n<p>A proposed conservation corridor that will link Madikwe and Pilanesberg will soon create a far bigger migration space and allow the animals from each reserve to roam freely between the two reserves. The corridor project will ultimately link the Limpopo Province with Botswana and will be known as Heritage Park.<\/p>\n<p>Madikwe Game Reserve and Pilanesberg Game Reserve offer visitors an exceptional Big 5 safari experience. However, even though they are neighbours, they are not identical in what they offer. Madikwe Game Reserve is a more exclusive and private safari destination for discerning travellers while Pilanesberg appeals to a broader market. There are many <a href=\"https:\/\/moafrikatours.com\/specials\/pilanesberg-national-park\" data-cke-saved-href=\"https:\/\/moafrikatours.com\/specials\/pilanesberg-national-park\">Pilanesberg specials on offer at MoAfrika<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p>We\u2019ve provided you with more information on Madikwe and Pilanesberg to help you decide which game reserve has more appeal and where you should stay for your next Big 5 safari holiday.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h3>WHAT WE LOVE ABOUT MADIKWE GAME RESERVE<\/h3>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>Madikwe Game Reserve lies between Pilanesberg Game Reserve and the south-eastern border of Botswana. It\u2019s the fifth largest game reserve in South Africa and home to the Big 5.<\/p>\n<p>The privately-run game reserve was established in the early 1990s as a wildlife tourism venture that would benefit the locally communities in the remote and economically-depressed region.<\/p>\n<p>Madikwe offers visitors a more exclusive safari experience and is less well known than Pilanesberg and obviously the iconic Kruger National Park. However, those who know Madikwe well love it because it\u2019s so completely different to the bigger reserves.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h3>Where is Madikwe Game Reserve?<\/h3>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>Madikwe is located on the border of South Africa and Botswana. The closest cities are Gaborone in Botswana and Pretoria and Johannesburg in Gauteng.<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Distance from Madikwe to Johannesburg: 220 kilometres \/ 3 hours via R509<\/li>\n<li>Distance from Madikwe to Gaborone: 148 kilometres \/ 2 hours and 15 minutes via R49<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>The closest town to Madikwe is Groot Marico. The small town lies along the n4 which is known as the Platinum Highway, between Zeerust and Rustenburg. Groot Marico is a mining and agricultural hub in the North West Province.<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Distance from Madikwe to Groot Marico: 57 kilometres \/ 1 hour via N4<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Madikwe lies adjacent to Pilanesberg Game Reserve on its north-western border. As the crow flies, Madikwe is 75 kilometres from Pilanesberg.<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Distance from Madikwe to Pilanesberg: 155 kilometres \/ 2 hours 15 minutes via R49<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Madikwe is close to Sun City Resort. The famous entertainment and casino complex is located on the doorstep of Pilanesberg Game Reserve.<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Distance from Madikwe to Sun City Resort: 87 kilometres \/ 1 hour 20 minutes via R565<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3><\/h3>\n<h3>Entrance gates to Madikwe Game Reserve<\/h3>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>Most of the luxury safari lodges and eco bush camps in Madikwe Game Reserve are located in the western section of the reserve and accessed via the main Wonderbloom Gate.<\/p>\n<p>The safari lodges in the eastern and central section of Madikwe are accessed mostly via the Abjaterskop Gate.<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Wonderbloom Gate: western boundary<\/li>\n<li>Tau Gate: north-west boundary<\/li>\n<li>Abjaterskop Gate: south-west boundary<\/li>\n<li>Motledi Gate: south-east boundary<\/li>\n<li>Derdepoort Gate: north-east boundary<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h3>What is the closest airport to Madikwe Game Reserve?<\/h3>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>The closest international airports to Madikwe Game Reserve are Sir Seretse Khama International Airport in Gaborone, Botswana and OR Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg, South Africa.<\/p>\n<p>Madikwe Game Reserve has a 1 200-metre airstrip for private charter planes. Federal Airlines offers a daily shuttle service from Johannesburg to Madikwe. There are two landing strips in the reserve; one on the eastern side and another on the western side.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h3>Who owns Madikwe Game Reserve?<\/h3>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>Madikwe Game Reserve was developed as a unique three-way partnership between the local communities, private safari lodge owners and the government. The reserve is operated under the auspices of the North West Parks Board (NWPB).<\/p>\n<p>NWPB is a government body that oversees the management and conservation of 15 protected areas in the North West Province of South Africa. NWPB was established to maintain, manage, conserve and preserve the biodiversity of the North West Province.<\/p>\n<p>The aim of the Madikwe eco-tourism business model was to create ecologically-sustainable economic activity for the benefit of the people of the region. The private sector plays a role in developing and managing the hospitality and tourism activities in the reserve.<\/p>\n<p>The state benefits from a conservation levy that each private establishment pays; a portion is put back into the reserve for conservation programmes and the balance is used for administration and to support the local communities.<\/p>\n<p>Visitors staying at the luxury safari lodges in Madikwe Game Reserve contribute to the upliftment of the local community and conservation through the mandatory conservation levy that is charged with each booking.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h3>How big is Madikwe Game Reserve?<\/h3>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>75 000 hectares (750 square kilometres)<\/p>\n<p>Madikwe Game Reserve has been expanded to incorporate private farms outside of the main reserve. Fences were brought down to allow animals to roam freely over a larger stretch of land and the private landowners cooperate by abiding by the reserve\u2019s conservation rules and restrictions on where private vehicles can drive.<\/p>\n<p>One day Madikwe Game Reserve will be incorporated into the Greater Pilanesberg which will include the private game farms adjacent to Madikwe, Black Rhino Game Reserve and Pilanesberg Game Reserve.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h3>Is there malaria in Madikwe Game Reserve?<\/h3>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>Madikwe Game Reserve is located in a malaria-free region in South Africa. This is a major drawcard because malaria is a life-threatening disease and can be fatal if not diagnosed and treated early.<\/p>\n<p>Madikwe is located at a fairly high altitude in a region with a very dry climate. The dry atmosphere and altitude are not suitable for the Anopheles mosquito which carries the plasmodium parasite that causes malaria.<\/p>\n<p>Madikwe Game Reserve is the ideal destination for families with young children because it\u2019s located in a malaria-free region. Children under the age of 5 years and\/or under 5 kilograms cannot take anti-malaria tablets. The same applies to pregnant women.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h3>Does Madikwe Game Reserve have the Big 5?<\/h3>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>Madikwe Game Reserve is home to the Big 5 which includes strong populations of elephant, Cape buffalo, lion, white and black rhino and leopard.<\/p>\n<p>In fact, Madikwe has \u201ctoo many elephants\u201d which is why the proposed conservation corridor linking it to Pilanesberg is important. Last count, Madikwe had 1 200 elephants while Pilanesberg has 250 elephants.<\/p>\n<p>Madikwe has introduced wild dogs to the reserve. The founding pack of 6 dogs has grown to two independent packs and the wild dogs of Madikwe are thriving. Madikwe also recently introduced cheetah to the reserve as part of a conservation breeding programme.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h3>Does Madikwe Game Reserve have a strong population of wild animals?<\/h3>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>Madikwe has a vast array of wild animals, comprising up to 60 mammal species. It also has 350 recorded bird species.<\/p>\n<p>Operation Phoenix is world-renowned as the largest and most successful wildlife translocation project ever undertaken. Over a period of 6 years, more than 8 000 animals were re-introduced to the newly-established Madikwe Game Reserve. Today, Madikwe Game Reserve boasts a count of over 10 000 animals and more than 60 species of mammal.<\/p>\n<p>Operation Phoenix accomplished many firsts in wildlife conservation including the first time entire herds of elephant were relocated and re-introduced to a new area. It also included the relocation of entire herds of buffalo and the rare and endangered south-central black rhino and southern white rhino.<\/p>\n<p>The ongoing relocation project has also seen the introduction of wild dog and cheetah to the area as well as gemsbok from the Kalahari Desert and Springbok from the central region of South Africa.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h3>Are day visitors allowed in Madikwe Game Reserve?<\/h3>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>Day visitors are not permitted in Madikwe. Only visitors staying overnight at one of the luxury lodges in Madikwe are allowed to enter the reserve.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h3>Are guests allowed to self-drive on game drives in Madikwe?<\/h3>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>Visitors are not allowed to drive their own cars around Madikwe on daily game drives. Madikwe has a strict limitation on the number of vehicles allowed in the reserve and particularly those used for daily game drives.<\/p>\n<p>The private safari lodges in Madikwe are limited to a certain number of open safari vehicles and are required to abide by strict rules in terms of where they can drive and the number of vehicles allowed at animal sightings.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h3>What accommodation is available at Madikwe Game Reserve?<\/h3>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>Madikwe Game Reserve offers predominantly luxury accommodation for the discerning traveller. There is one self-catering option and an eco-friendly bush camp but otherwise accommodation in Madikwe is a choice of luxury, fully-catered safari lodges.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h4>Luxury safari lodges in Madikwe Game Reserve:<\/h4>\n<p>Buffalo Ridge Safari Lodge<\/p>\n<p>Impodimo Game Lodge<\/p>\n<p>Jaci\u2019s Lodge<\/p>\n<p>Thakadu Lodge<\/p>\n<p>The Bush House<\/p>\n<p>Madikwe River House<\/p>\n<p>Rhulani Safari Lodge<\/p>\n<p>Rock Fig Lodge<\/p>\n<p>Motswiri Private Safari Lodge<\/p>\n<p>Tunigi Safari Lodge<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h4>Ultra-luxury accommodation in Madikwe Game Reserve:<\/h4>\n<p>Etali Safari Lodge<\/p>\n<p>Jamala Madikwe<\/p>\n<p>Morukuru Family Lodge<\/p>\n<p>Madikwe Hills Private Game Lodge<\/p>\n<p>Madikwe Safari Lodge<\/p>\n<p>Makanyane Safari Lodge<\/p>\n<p>Mateya Safari Lodge<\/p>\n<p>Molori Safari Lodge<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h4>Eco-friendly bush camp in Madikwe Game Reserve:<\/h4>\n<p>Mosetlha Bush Camp &amp; Eco Lodge<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h4>Self-catering accommodation in Madikwe Game Reserve:<\/h4>\n<p>Rock Fig Lodge<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h4>Conference &amp; wedding accommodation in Madikwe Game Reserve:<\/h4>\n<p>Tau Game Lodge<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h4>Child-friendly accommodation in Madikwe Game Reserve:<\/h4>\n<p>Morukuru Family Madikwe<\/p>\n<p>Motswiri Private Safari Lodge<\/p>\n<p>Tau Game Lodge<\/p>\n<p>The Bush House<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h3>Is Madikwe Game Reserve linked to Pilanesberg Game Reserve?<\/h3>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>Not at the moment but there is a plan in place to link Madikwe and Pilanesberg and ultimately the Limpopo and North West Province with Botswana.<\/p>\n<p>Such areas are also known as transfrontier conservation areas or Peace Parks. A transboundary protected area is an ecological protected area that spans boundaries of more than one country or sub-national entity.<\/p>\n<p>The proposed development of a conservation corridor referred to as the Heritage Park has been under negotiation for the past 15 years. The Heritage Park will link Madikwe Game Reserve with the popular Pilanesberg Game Reserve and provide the animals of Madikwe a larger wilderness area that they can roam freely around. More importantly, it will allow for a larger migration area for elephant.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h3>What is the weather like in Madikwe Game Reserve?<\/h3>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>Madikwe Game Reserve lies on the border of Botswana which falls within the semi-arid region of the great Kalahari Desert. The climate is characterised by low rainfall, high summer temperatures and chilly winter evening temperatures.<\/p>\n<p>The Kalahari Desert is a massive semi-arid sandy savanna region in southern Africa. Interestingly, it\u2019s not a true desert but rather what is known as a green desert. This is because the Kalahari Desert receives \u201ctoo much rainfall\u201d, between 125 to 250 millimeters annually.<\/p>\n<p>The weather in Madikwe is warm and pleasant during the day throughout the year, with summer highs of 32 \u00b0C \/ 90 \u00b0F and winter highs of 21 \u00b0C \/ 70 \u00b0F. The game reserve experiences summer rainfall and the only time it gets really cold is in the evenings in mid-winter when temperatures drop to 3 \u00b0C \/ 37 \u00b0F.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h3>What is the best time to visit Madikwe Game Reserve?<\/h3>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>The best time to visit Madikwe Game Reserve is in the winter months between April and August. The daily temperatures are warm and sunny, but not too hot. The rains stop towards the end of March which means by mid-winter in Madikwe, the bushveld is dry and less dense. This is perfect for game viewing because the bushveld is not as thick as it is in winter and the animals tend to congregate closer to the waterholes and rivers.<\/p>\n<p>The summer months between September and March are very hot and humid in Madikwe Game Reserve which international tourists find quite uncomfortable. However, it\u2019s the best time for birdwatching in Madikwe because many of the migrant birds have arrived in the reserve to escape the cold European winter.<\/p>\n<p>Summer is also the best time to see newborn animals in the reserve, including hundreds of young antelope. With so much \u2018fresh meat\u2019 around in summer, you\u2019re guaranteed to see incredible animals sightings with predators on kills.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h3>WHAT WE LOVE ABOUT PILANESBERG GAME RESERVE<\/h3>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>Pilanesberg Game Reserve is one of South Africa\u2019s most popular game reserves. In fact, in a recent survey conducted by the South African Tourism Board, the game reserve was ranked #1 on the list of most popular game reserves in the country.<\/p>\n<p>It\u2019s located in the North West Province of South Africa, relatively close to the border of Botswana. It lies in a transitional zone between the dry, arid Kalahari Desert and the lush Lowveld region. Many animals from both eco regions can be found in Pilanesberg Game Reserve and the fauna of each distinct region has blended seamlessly to create a unique eco-system.<\/p>\n<p>What makes Pilanesberg Game Reserve so popular is it has the highest concentration of game in South Africa so you\u2019re guaranteed incredible wildlife sightings even on short day tours. Another major drawcard is the reserve is located in a malaria-free within reasonable travelling distance from Johannesburg.<\/p>\n<p>This makes Pilanesberg Game Reserve the ideal Big 5 safari destination for families and international travellers with time constraints. Pilanesberg doesn\u2019t compare with the iconic Kruger National Park on sheer scale and biodiversity but it\u2019s an endearing reserve that\u2019s a wonderful alternative to the national park.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h3>Where is Pilanesberg Game Reserve?<\/h3>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>Pilanesberg Game Reserve is located in a malaria-free area in the North West Province of South Africa. It\u2019s positioned close to the south-east border of Botswana with Madikwe Game Reserve lying between Pilanesberg and South Africa\u2019s boundary.<\/p>\n<p>The closest cities are Gaborone in Botswana and Pretoria and Johannesburg in Gauteng.<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Distance from Madikwe to Johannesburg: 190kilometres \/ 2 hours 30 minutes via R556<\/li>\n<li>Distance from Madikwe to Gaborone: 174 kilometres \/ 3 hours via Tlokweng<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>The closest town to Pilanesberg is Rustenburg. The large town lies at the foot of the Magaliesberg and is home to the two largest platinum mines in the world as well as the world\u2019s largest platinum refinery. The refinery processes about 70% of the world\u2019s platinum.<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Distance from Pilanesberg to Rustenburg: 50 kilometres \/ 50 minutes via R565<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Pilanesberg Game Reserve lies adjacent to Madikwe on its eastern border. As the flies, Madikwe is 75 kilometres from Pilanesberg.<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><a name=\"_Hlk38365805\" data-cke-saved-name=\"_Hlk38365805\"><\/a>Distance from Pilanesberg to Madikwe: 155 kilometres \/ 2 hours 15 minutes via R49<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Pilanesberg Game Reserve is next door to Sun City Resort. The famous entertainment and casino complex is located on the doorstep of Pilanesberg Game Reserve.<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Distance from Pilanesberg to Sun City Resort: 18 kilometres \/ 30 minutes via R565<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3><\/h3>\n<h3>Entrance gates to Pilanesberg Game Reserve<\/h3>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>Pilanesberg National has five public gates with an additional gate for the private Black Rhino Reserve.<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Bakgatla Gate<\/li>\n<li>Manyane Gate<\/li>\n<li>Kwa Maritane Gate<\/li>\n<li>Bakubung Gate<\/li>\n<li>Shepherd\u2019s Tree Gate<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h3>What is the closest airport to Pilanesberg Game Reserve?<\/h3>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>The closest international airports to Pilanesberg Game Reserve are Lanseria International Airport and OR Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg.<\/p>\n<p>Pilanesberg International Airport is located close to Sun City and the Pilanesberg National Park. SA Express offers 2 weekly flights between OR Tambo International Airport and Cape Town International Airport to Pilanesberg\/ Sun City.<\/p>\n<p>Visitors wishing to fly to Sun City or Pilanesberg National Park can make use of flights on either Mondays or Fridays. Flying directly to the park means more time to enjoy your holiday with family and friends.<\/p>\n<h3><\/h3>\n<h3>Who owns Pilanesberg Game Reserve?<\/h3>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>Madikwe Game Reserve was developed as a unique three-way partnership between the local communities, private safari lodge owners and the government. The reserve is operated under the auspices of the North West Parks Board (NWPB).<\/p>\n<p>NWPB is a government body that oversees the management and conservation of 15 protected areas in the North West Province of South Africa. NWPB was established to maintain, manage, conserve and preserve the biodiversity of the North West Province.<\/p>\n<p>The aim of the Madikwe eco-tourism business model was to create ecologically-sustainable economic activity for the benefit of the people of the region. The private sector play a role in developing and managing the hospitality and tourism activities in the reserve.<\/p>\n<p>The state benefits from a conservation levy that each private establishment pays; a portion is put back into the reserve for conservation programmes and the balance is used for administration and to support the local communities.<\/p>\n<p>Visitors staying at the luxury safari lodges in Madikwe Game Reserve contribute to the upliftment of the local community and conservation through the mandatory conservation levy that is charged with each booking.<\/p>\n<p>Manyane Resort and Bakgatla Resort are operated by Golden Leopard Resorts. The luxury safari lodges in the rest of Pilanesberg are privately-owned and operated entities.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h3>How big is Madikwe Game Reserve?<\/h3>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>57 200 hectares (572 square kilometres)<\/p>\n<p>Pilanesberg Game Reserve has been expanded to Black Rhino Game Reserve which lies on the northern boundary. Fences were brought down to allow animals to roam freely over a larger stretch of land and the private landowners cooperate by abiding by the reserve\u2019s conservation rules and restrictions on where private vehicles can drive.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h3>Is there malaria in Madikwe Game Reserve?<\/h3>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>Pilanesberg Game Reserve is located in a malaria-free region in South Africa. This is a major drawcard because malaria is a life-threatening disease and can be fatal if not diagnosed and treated early.<\/p>\n<p>Pilanesberg is located at a fairly high altitude in a region with a very dry climate. The dry atmosphere and altitude are not suitable for the Anopheles mosquito which carries the plasmodium parasite that causes malaria.<\/p>\n<p>Madikwe Game Reserve is the ideal destination for families with young children because it\u2019s located in a malaria-free region. Children under the age of 5 years and\/or under 5 kilograms cannot take anti-malaria tablets. The same applies to pregnant women.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h3>Does Pilanesberg Game Reserve have the Big 5?<\/h3>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>Madikwe Game Reserve is home to the Big 5 which includes strong populations of elephant, Cape buffalo, lion, white and black rhino and leopard.<\/p>\n<h3><\/h3>\n<h3>Does Pilanesberg Game Reserve have a strong population of wild animals?<\/h3>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>Pilanesberg Game Reserve was stocked with animals through Operation Genesis in 1979. At the time, Operation Genesis was the most ambitious wildlife translocation project in the world.<\/p>\n<p>With excellent animal management programmes and conservation, Pilanesberg boasts the highest concentration of game of any private reserve in South Africa. It\u2019s home to at least 86 species of African wildlife and offers visitors an incredible Big 5 safari experience.<\/p>\n<p>Pilanesberg has a unique ecology that\u2019s made up of a mix of trees and plants indigenous to the dry, arid conditions of the Kalahari Desert and the lush, tropical belt of the Limpopo and Mpumalanga provinces. The overlap of wildlife and birds is remarkable. Species from the two diverse regions have adapted to create an ecosystem that is unique to the Pilanesberg region.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h3>Are day visitors allowed in Madikwe Game Reserve?<\/h3>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>Day visitors are permitted in Pilanesberg Game Reserve. Day visitors can enjoy the restaurant and picnic facilities at Manyane Resort and Bakgatla Resort as well as the restaurant at the Pilanesberg Centre.<\/p>\n<p>Day visitors are not allowed to visit the private safari lodges in Pilanesberg and the general public on holiday in Pilanesberg are not allowed access to Black Rhino Game Reserve. Only guests booked in to stay at the private safari lodges in Black Rhino Game Reserve can visit the reserve.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h3>Are guests allowed to self-drive on game drives in Madikwe?<\/h3>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>Yes, visitors may drive their own cars around Pilanesberg Game Reserve on daily game drives. The private safari lodges in the game reserve offer daily drives in open safari vehicles with a professional ranger and guide.<\/p>\n<p>MoAfrika Tours offers an exciting selection of day tours and overnight tours to Pilanesberg. On these tours, guests are taken in open safari vehicles for the morning and late-afternoon game drives.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h3>What accommodation is available at Pilanesberg Game Reserve?<\/h3>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>Pilanesberg Game Reserve offers a wide range of accommodation for a broader market. It ranges from tented and self-catering accommodation to luxury and exclusive-use private safari lodges. It also includes the exclusive safari lodges in Black Rhino Game Reserve.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h4>Mid-range luxury accommodation in Pilanesberg Game Reserve<\/h4>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>Bakubung Bush Lodge<\/p>\n<p>Kwa Maritane<\/p>\n<p>Black Rhino Game Lodge<\/p>\n<p>Ivory Tree Game Lodge<\/p>\n<p>Morokolo Safari Lodge<\/p>\n<p>Pilanesberg Safari Lodge<\/p>\n<p>Shepherd\u2019s Tree Game Lodge<\/p>\n<p>Tambuti Game Lodge<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h4>Luxury accommodation in Pilanesberg Game Reserve<\/h4>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>Lush Private Lodge<\/p>\n<p>Tshukudu Bush Lodge<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h4>Exclusive-use luxury safari lodges in Pilanesberg Game Reserve<\/h4>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>Nkala Safari Lodge<\/p>\n<p>Thutlwa Safari Lodge<\/p>\n<p>Buffalo Thorn Lodge<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h4>Self-catering accommodation in Pilanesberg Game Reserve<\/h4>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>Nkala Safari Lodge<\/p>\n<p>Thutlwa Safari Lodge<\/p>\n<p>Buffalo Thorn Lodge<\/p>\n<p>Manyane Resort<\/p>\n<p>Bakgatla Resort<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h4>Camping and tented accommodation in Pilanesberg Game Reserve<\/h4>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>Manyane Resort<\/p>\n<p>Bakgatla Resort<\/p>\n<p>Pilanesberg Tented Adventures<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h3>What is Greater Pilanesberg?<\/h3>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>Black Rhino Game Reserve has been incorporated into Pilanesberg Game Reserve to create what is known as Greater Pilanesberg.<\/p>\n<p>The exclusive reserve added just less than 2 000 hectares to the Pilanesberg Game Reserve to create an expansive wildlife sanctuary of some 57 000 hectares. It is now known as the Greater Pilanesberg which makes it the third-largest game reserve in South Africa.<\/p>\n<p>Black Rhino Game Reserve is a private concession and access is restricted to the exclusive use of guests staying at one of the private safari lodges. The ultra-luxury lodges are known for their indulgent hospitality, elegant African d\u00e9cor and decadent cuisine in settings that offer guests an opulent safari experience.<\/p>\n<p>The long-term goal is to incorporate Madikwe Game Reserve into the national park which will expand the reserve by a further 750 000 hectares. It will be called Heritage Park when the plan comes to fruition.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h3>Is Pilanesberg Game Reserve linked to Madikwe Game Reserve?<\/h3>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>Not at the moment but there is a plan in place to link Madikwe and Pilanesberg and ultimately the Limpopo and North West Province with Botswana.<\/p>\n<p>Such areas are also known as transfrontier conservation areas or peace parks. A transboundary protected area is an ecological protected area that spans boundaries of more than one country or sub-national entity.<\/p>\n<p>The proposed development of a conservation corridor referred to as the Heritage Park has been under negotiation for the past 15 years. The Heritage Park will incorporate Black Rhino Game Reserve, Madikwe Game Reserve and Pilanesberg Game Reserve. It will provide the animals of Madikwe a larger wilderness area that they can roam freely around. More importantly, it will allow for a larger migration area for the elephants.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h3>What is the weather like in Pilanesberg Game Reserve?<\/h3>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p><a name=\"_Hlk38369314\" data-cke-saved-name=\"_Hlk38369314\"><\/a>Pilanesberg Game Reserve is located in the North West Province with lies in a transitional zone between the dry, arid Kalahari Desert and the lush Lowveld region. The climate is characterised by low-to-moderate summer rainfall, high summer temperatures and chilly winter evening temperatures.<\/p>\n<p>The Kalahari Desert is a massive semi-arid sandy savanna region in southern Africa. Interestingly, it\u2019s not a true desert but rather what is known as a green desert. This is because the Kalahari Desert receives \u201ctoo much rainfall\u201d, between 125 to 250 millimeters annually.<\/p>\n<p>The weather in Pilanesberg Game Reserve is warm and pleasant during the day throughout the year, with summer highs of 32 \u00b0C \/ 90 \u00b0F and winter highs of 21 \u00b0C \/ 70 \u00b0F. The game reserve experiences summer rainfall and the only time it gets really cold is in the evenings in mid-winter when temperatures drop to 3 \u00b0C \/ 37 \u00b0F.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h3>What is the best time to visit Pilanesberg Game Reserve?<\/h3>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>The best time to visit Pilanesberg Game Reserve is in the winter months between April and August. The daily temperatures are warm and sunny, but not too hot. The rains stop towards the end of March which means by mid-winter in Pilanesberg Game Reserve, the bushveld is dry and less dense.<\/p>\n<p>This is perfect for game viewing because the bushveld is not as thick as it is in winter and the animals tend to congregate closer to the waterholes and rivers.<\/p>\n<p>The summer months between September and March are very hot and humid in Pilanesberg Game Reserve which international tourists find quite uncomfortable. However, it\u2019s the best time for birdwatching in the Pilanesberg area because many of the migrant birds have arrived in the reserve to escape the cold European winter.<\/p>\n<p>Summer is also the best time to see newborn animals in the reserve, including hundreds of young antelope. With so much \u2018fresh meat\u2019 around in summer, you\u2019re guaranteed to see incredible animals sightings with predators on kills.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h3>WHICH IS BEST? MADIKWE OR PILANESBERG?<\/h3>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>Madikwe Game Reserve and Pilanesberg Game Reserve both offer wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers an exceptional Big 5 safari experience. They don\u2019t compare with the iconic Kruger National Park on sheer scale and biodiversity but they are a fantastic alternative if you want to visit a safari destination that\u2019s closer to Johannesburg than Kruger Park and located in a malaria-free area.<\/p>\n<p>The big difference between Madikwe and Pilanesberg Game Reserves is Madikwe offers a more exclusive and private safari experience than Pilanesberg because day visitors are not allowed in the reserve and the bush traffic is restricted to only the few open safari vehicles run by the private lodges in Madikwe.<\/p>\n<p>Pilanesberg Game Reserve is open to the general public and offers a wider range of accommodation that suits different budgets; from self-catering chalets and camping sites to mid-range hotels and bush lodges. Madikwe offers accommodation that is unashameably marketed to high-end travellers, which tend to be the international set.<\/p>\n<p>It\u2019s not a problem if you\u2019d like a more exclusive safari experience staying in Pilanesberg. You can book to stay at one of the luxury safari lodges in Black Rhino Game Reserve. You can then enjoy the best of both worlds with an exclusive safari experience in Black Rhino Game Reserve and daily game drives into Pilanesberg.<\/p>\n<p>Madikwe and Pilanesberg Game Reserve are home to the Big 7 which includes the famous Big 5 plus wild dogs and cheetahs. You\u2019re guaranteed to see incredible animal sightings on game drives in Madikwe and the Pilanesberg.<\/p>\n<p>The two small game reserves are home to an abundance of game which are packed into a relatively small area. Pilanesberg Game Reserve boasts the highest concentration of game in South Africa. Madikwe is worried that it has \u201ctoo many elephants\u201d in the reserve but the strong population of elephants is also one of its big drawcards.<\/p>\n<p>Pilanesberg Game Reserve is bigger than Madikwe and is half an hour closer to Johannesburg than Madikwe. It\u2019s also next door neighbours with the famous Sun City Resort.<\/p>\n<p>If you want a combo family bush holiday with a world of entertainment at the popular resort, Pilanesberg is ideal. If you want the perfect retreat in idyllic bushveld surrounds with nothing but the beautiful sounds of the animals and birds in the bush to disturb you, Madikwe is ideal.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h3>BOOK A BIG 5 MADIKWE AND PILANESBERG SAFARI TOUR WITH MOAFRIKA TOURS<\/h3>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>MoAfrika Tours is a leading tour operator based in Johannesburg, offering a diverse selection of day tours and long-stay tours to destinations in South Africa, Zimbabwe, Zambia, Botswana, Namibia and Mozambique.<\/p>\n<p>Your safety and well-being are our main priority. We are here to help any time, any day with booking extra activities, sorting out any problems, offering advice on making your trip extra special and just being there for you if you need to talk to someone.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h5>We know touring, we know Africa and we\u2019re looking forward to getting to know you.<\/h5>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Madikwe Game Reserve vs Pilanesberg Game Reserve &nbsp; Madikwe Game Reserve and Pilanesberg Game Reserve are two pristine protected conservation areas located in the North West Province of South Africa. Contrary to popular belief, Pilanesberg is not a national park; it\u2019s a public nature park that\u2019s overseen by a governing body. The game reserves are [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":1906,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[174],"tags":[],"acf":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/moafrikatours.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1903"}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/moafrikatours.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/moafrikatours.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/moafrikatours.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/moafrikatours.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=1903"}],"version-history":[{"count":4,"href":"https:\/\/moafrikatours.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1903\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":15454,"href":"https:\/\/moafrikatours.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1903\/revisions\/15454"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/moafrikatours.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/1906"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/moafrikatours.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=1903"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/moafrikatours.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=1903"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/moafrikatours.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=1903"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}