Conservation

Madikwe Game Reserve is testimony to the dedicated preservation of a special wilderness in one of the more remote parts of South Africa.

Located in the transitional zone between the bushveld ecological area of Southern Africa and the Kalahari thornveld region, it is now home to an abundance of wildlife. This, however, was not always the case. Operation Phoenix was one of the largest relocations of wildlife on earth: more than 8 000 animals were transported over a period of seven years for the purpose of establishing an economically viable wildlife sanctuary.

Today the reserve is home to the Big 5, which can be extended to the ‘Super 7’ to include African wild dog and cheetah. More than 250 species of birds have been recorded. For visitors, Madikwe is easily accessible and boasts numerous lodges and camps to choose from. Travellers play an important role in the sustainability and economic upkeep of the area. Investment and job creation are steps forward toward creating new opportunities for residents and eradicating poverty. This process gains constant traction and Madikwe Game Reserve has become one of South Africa’s success stories. Placing people at the centre of conservation efforts is the number one priority when planning the development and constant improvement of the reserve.

A pioneering development for Madikwe as well as the popular Pilanesberg National Park is the ‘Heritage Park’ conservation corridor to join the two conservation areas. The project allows for a larger wildlife migration area, creating a prime eco-tourism destination.