Imagine soaking in the plunge pool of your private villa under the hot African sun, with a chilled drink in hand, as you watch a herd of elephants splashing each other at the waterhole mere metres away.

Zebras, impalas and wildebeest hesitantly follow suit, intimidated by the huge pachyderms. Birds chirp in the background, providing a gentle soundtrack to this magical moment. You sit back and marvel at the unfolding drama of the wild. This dream becomes a reality at Last Word Madikwe.

Formerly a family farmhouse, it was recently acquired by the Last Word, an exclusive collection of intimate boutique hotels and lodges, and has been transformed into a luxurious five-star sanctuary. The main lodge, perched atop verdant lawns, houses the suites and communal areas.

Here are 6 reasons why you should stay at Last Word Madikwe

Where is it?

As the name suggests, Last Word Madikwe is located in Madikwe Game Reserve, in the North West province, close to the Botswana border.

It is one of South Africa’s largest game reserves, just four hours away from Johannesburg and draws repeat visitors with its malaria-free status, great wildlife sightings, and luxurious lodges.

Madikwe’s unique community-based conservation model directly supports local communities through employment and development, creating a sustainable approach to wildlife protection.

A cheetah is spotted at a game reserve at the Last Word Madikwe. Picture: Sara Essop

The reserve is home to over 60 large mammal species including the Big Five, cheetahs and wild dogs, as well as over 300 bird species.

Wildlife sightings are incredible, with the vast network of guides throughout the reserve alerting each other on two-way radios during the twice-daily game drives.

The exclusivity and intimacy

As you arrive at Last Word Madikwe, you are immediately struck by the lodge’s inviting atmosphere.

The property exudes a sense of warmth and familiarity, reminiscent of a family home rather than a typical safari lodge.

The Villa dining area at the Last Word Madikwe. Picture: Sara Essop

With just six luxurious en-suite rooms and an exclusive private villa, the lodge provides a truly intimate and personal safari experience, allowing guests to peacefully enjoy the African wilderness.

The waterhole

The landscaped lawns in front of the main lodge lead to an ancient waterhole.

The Western section of the reserve, where the lodge is situated, is popular with the resident wildlife, and this can be seen at the waterhole which attracts a steady stream of visitors all day and night.

Elephants at a waterhole at the Last Word Madikwe. Picture: Sara Essop

Herds of elephants, buffalos, rhinos and even hyenas and lions, come to quench their thirst there. The waterhole is floodlit at night to enable night-time viewing.

The hide

Both professional and amateur photographers will love the underground hide, a unique feature that brings guests face-to-face with the animals visiting the waterhole.

It is accessible 24 hours a day, via a tunnel in the garden, providing endless opportunities for wildlife photography and observation.

You will be torn between staying at the hide or doing anything else, for fear of missing any of the action.

The villa

Although all the suites at the lodge are sumptuous, the newly launched standalone villa exudes elegance and style with a vibrant mix of African bush décor.

Full-length glass windows and doors provide uninterrupted views of the waterhole and lead to a private plunge pool and firepit.

Villa bedroom at the Last Word Madikwe. Picture: Sara Essop

The villa houses three en-suite bedrooms, a communal living area, and a kitchen, making it perfect for families. Children of all ages are welcome and babysitting facilities are available too.

The food

The food at Last Word Madikwe is another highlight here, with the talented chefs creating gourmet meals for brunch, high tea and dinner.

Dining venues are varied to incorporate an element of surprise, and alternate between the dining room, the garden and outdoor boma.

If you are seeking a safari experience that will leave you feeling fully immersed in the wild, Last Word Madikwe truly lives up to its name.

Article first appeared on Essop’s travel bloginafricaandbeyond.com.

Sara Essop

6 reasons why you should stay at Last Word Madikwe