Jaci’s Safari Lodge for families

The reserve is on the South African border with Botswana, on the edge of the Kalahari. From Johannesburg it is a one-hour flight or a scenic 3-4 hour drive to get to Jaci’s. Set under shady trees on the banks of the Marico River, the main part of the lodge is built around an ancient termite mound. There are eight rooms, built of stone and canvas with thatched roofs. Each has a bathroom with a ‘rock’ bath and an outdoor shower. The lodge has a swimming pool by the river, a gym and a viewing platform overlooking a well-used waterhole.

Meals are served in the enclosed dining area or under the stars. Children of all ages are welcome at Jaci's and for families, or those seeking greater privacy, two of the rooms are ideal: the Nare Suite is an exclusive bush retreat sleeping four. It has its own swimming pool, a private guide and vehicle for game drives, and its own kitchen where a chef can prepare your meals.

Alternatively, the Safari Cottage features an upstairs loft room and a private plunge pool. Activities at Jaci’s include early morning and evening game drives or walks in the 75,000-hectare Madikwe Reserve. Jaci’s also offers specialised kids’ safaris for children. Alternatively you can just relax in a hammock, sip an ice-cold drink, and watch the birds and the beasts through a pair of binoculars.