Experience level: first safari
Review about South Africa by Kristin
South Africa is unlike any place I have ever experienced. It's modern yet basic, unique in it's own customs that draws one in personally.
VG
20-35 years of age | Experience level: 2-5 safaris
Creature comforts and lots of creatures
We went to Madikwe Game Reserve in 2009, having been once before on a safari to its sister park Kwandwe some years earlier. I doubt any two game reserves are the same, and it Madikwe was very different from Kwandwe.
Highlights for me were tracking the pack of wild dogs (which are apparently very rare in Africa but were fairly plentiful in Madikwe), watching a pride of lions relax and play with each other next to the airstrip and having a lioness almost brush past my leg whilst I was sitting in the rear seats of the safari jeep.
Overall I'd thoroughly recommend Madikwe (and Kwandwe) to anyone wanting to get a safari experience whilst staying in relative luxury.
VG
20-35 years of age | Experience level: 2-5 safaris
Review about Kwandwe Game Reserve by Ken Okumura
Kwandwe has a more dramatic location than Madikwe.
Experience level: first safari
A life-changing experience that left a bit of my heart in Africa and that I will never forget!
The wildlife of the reserve was plentiful and we were always able to get quite close to most animals on every drive (morning, afternoon, night). The scenery was stunning -- I'll never forget sitting a top the hill as the sun rose and drinking coffee, listening to the sound of the bush coming alive. The weather was perfect in April - not too hot, not too cold. I really enjoyed the guide comments and character and how they shared so much knowledge about the animal's behavior, droppings, tracks, etc.
Review about South Africa by Hennie van Heerden (wildlife photographer)
South Africa has it all; from breathtakingly beautiful wildlife to (for those who seek that) interesting city-trips (Cape Town) and beaches, wonderful scenery (the Flower route and the Wine route)
US
20-35 years of age | Experience level: first safari
Review about South Africa by bertly13
For an American, there is nothing like actually going to Africa to see it in person. It was just an incredible experience.
20-35 years of age | Experience level: first safari
The Wildlife, The Luxury, What More Can One Want?
Mala Mala is a game reserve located on the outskirts of the Kruger National Park, and the wildlife is able to travel freely between the two. When one travels to Mala Mala, a stay pretty much guarantees a Big 5 viewing, and lucky there is lots of game to view. The guides are extremely knowledgable, and the whole experience is incredible. The only downside to Mala Mala is that it isn't a place for anyone who is looking for a true bush experience, because it is so luxury. The food is amazing, and eating outside in a true-African boma is a great experience. Truly a treat for anyone looking for a luxury bush experience.
The ultimate safari experience in South Africa
4 times I've been to Mala Mala (stayed in 3 of their 4 camps) and I've yet to find a flaw. The camps are luxurious to extremely luxurious; the food and wines are excellent. Rooms (and in Rattrays 'khayas', bungalows) are outstanding.
The wildlife viewing is among the best in Africa, the rangers are knowledgeable and pleasant company. Best thing is that they wear ear-pieces so no crackling radios while watching wildlife.
But the best about Mala Mala Game Reserve is that the wildlife comes first, always. The game viewing is done with ultimate respect for the animals' wellbeing.
US
20-35 years of age | Experience level: first safari
It was amazing.
I thought the experience was incredible all around. The experience in the camp, and our relationships with our guides, as well as the food and the accommodations were all very cool. I really enjoyed that we were staying in more of a cabin-like environment and not in a luxury hotel out there because I felt like we got more into the experience that way. If I had money to blow like that I would definitely do it again.
35-50 years of age | Experience level: over 5 safaris
An amazing insight into the life, threats, plight, beauty and power of the Black and White Rhino
Great variety of wildlife, impressive scenery (Mount Kenya a stunning backdrop), fantastic wardens and staff.
The Conservancy is managed impeccably, good infrastructure, roads in good condition, safe and secure.
