Jaci's Safari Lodge

Named after the owner, Jaci van Heteren, Jaci's Safari Lodge was the pioneering private game lodge in Madikwe Game Reserve.

It is a beautiful lodge, set under a grove of tamboetie trees on the edge of the Marico River, overlooking a waterhole. Each of the eight luxurious rooms has a tented interior, walls of natural rock, a cool thatch roof and private viewing deck. The hand-made en suite rock baths are a feature of the bathrooms, and there is an outdoor safari shower. In 2003, The Tatler Travel Guide chose Jaci’s as one of the ‘101 Best Hotels in the World’.

Children

When Jaci and Jan had a child, they realised that there was so much young children could discover in the bush and they were one of the first safari lodges in South Africa to positively welcome children of all ages. They have devised a comprehensive programme of activities to keep them occupied throughout the day. The specialised children’s safari includes bush craft, animal tracking, birds of a feather, touch tables, river safaris, game drives and walks.

Children aged seven and under have their own ‘Jungle Drive’ with one of the rangers during the day. The drives are tailored around the ages and interests of the children. Children under 7 have dinner at 18h00 while parents are on the game drive. Childminding is provided while parents are on game drives or at their evening meal. Children aged 8-12 may join their parents on game drives, and eat in the dining room on their return.  Children over 12 may join the adults in the boma for the evening meal.

JACI’S TREE LODGE was the second lodge built by Jaci (and her husband, Jan) and has been designed with a more modern feel and funky décor, using vibrant colours and unique local crafts.