Madikwe is some 280km (174 miles) northwest of Johannesburg. There are daily flights to the reserve from Johannesburg (occasionally two flights); your lodge will arrange air transfers (it's a 45-min. flight). If you have the time, however, a road journey is definitely recommended. With no one else on the road, and surrounded by bush and classic big African skies, the journey alone is a holiday. It's an easy road trip, particularly if you follow the main roads to Zeerust and then head for the Abjaterskop Gate, which means you won't hit dirt roads until you're inside the reserve itself. To get to Makanyane, you will spend some time on some pretty unnerving dirt roads, but this last stretch will surely add to the sense of getting away from it all. The journey by car should take between 3 and 4 hours from Johannesburg; most lodges will arrange the road transfer, meeting you off the flight at the airport (bank on around R3,000 per car). If your time is limited, fly. Note that it gets very hot in summer and, surprisingly, cold in winter. The best times to visit are at the beginning (Nov) or the end (Apr) of the season, when temperatures are more temperate. Visiting during the winter months (May-Oct) represents substantial savings, however; simply pack a few ultrawarm layers. Note: There is a R50 reserve entrance fee, as well as a new government levy of about R25 for the upliftment of the previously disadvantaged local communities. Make sure these are included in the rate or bring along some cash.
Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.
