Makanyane Safari Lodge

As you arrive at Makanyane Safari Lodge, you will find yourself surrendering to a lush forest setting with awe-inspiring views of the tranquil Marico River. Makanyane, an exclusive safari lodge on 1,800 hectares of private land within the malaria free Madikwe Game Reserve, is home to Africa’s Big Five, a myriad of bird species, cheetahs, brown hyenas and of course the African Wild Dog or "Makanyane".

Designed by the team of architects behind Singita Boulders, the delightful main lodge houses a gracious dining room and lounge which spills out onto a wide wooden deck suspended over the ravine and waterhole below. The upstairs viewing deck offers panoramic views under a sweeping thatched roof, while traditional stone walls offset splashes of bright colour, soft creams and dark wood to give Makanyane its unique chic edge.

Shaded by a dense canopy of trees, Makanyane's eight stunning suites look out over the river through large glass-panel walls. The suites are of splendid proportion and feature spacious bedrooms leading into an equally generous bathroom equipped with a freestanding bathtub, under-floor heating and a shower. Outside, a private patio and alfresco shower complete the picture.

Your ranger will beguile you with interesting tales of the local legends – and in the evenings, dinners are often served in the bush next to a glowing fire, with lanterns hanging in the trees. Makanyane also has a gym and a Bush Spa – whilst the elevated hide, in a thicket of trees, offers the chance for a luxury sleep-out under a canopy of stars.

PRICES Prices for 3 nights from £732 per person twin share including all meals, game activities, alcoholic beverages (local brands), soft drinks and transfers from the Madikwe airstrip. The air charter to the Madikwe is additional. Flights from the UK from £589 (including £120 tax) with South African Airways