Several lodges in South Africa’s Madikwe Game Reserve have temporarily closed due to severe flooding along the Marico River. The closures, expected to last until at least the end of April 2025, come as the region grapples with the aftermath of unprecedented rainfall.
Over 400mm of rain fell in February alone, causing the Molatedi Dam to overflow and leading to extensive flooding throughout the reserve. Affected properties include Jaci’s Lodges, the Morukuru Family, and aha Thakadu River Camp, all renowned for offering exceptional safari experiences in the heart of Madikwe.
Jaci’s Lodges closure and safety measures
Jaci’s Tree Lodge and Jaci’s Safari Lodge have been closed until the end of April or potentially longer. The team is currently assessing the extent of the damage and working closely with insurers to determine the necessary steps for recovery. All staff and guests were safely evacuated, and the safety of everyone involved remains the top priority.
The reservations team at Jaci’s Lodges is reaching out to impacted guests to manage cancellations and refunds. Guests with queries are encouraged to contact the reservations team directly for assistance.
Morukuru Family and Thakadu River Camp also impacted
The Morukuru Family has closed its Morukuru Owner’s House and Morukuru River House until further notice. While no guests were present during the flooding, the team anticipates significant material damage. The Morukuru Farm House remains unaffected and is still welcoming visitors.
Aha Thakadu River Camp has also evacuated staff and guests safely and is closely monitoring the situation. The lodge will remain closed until conditions improve.
A challenging season for Madikwe
The Madikwe Game Reserve has received over 1,300mm of rain this season—more than double the usual annual amount. As South Africa’s fifth-largest reserve, Madikwe is a popular destination for Big Five safaris, offering a quieter alternative to the Kruger National Park.
Lodge teams remain hopeful for a swift recovery and are eager to welcome guests back to experience the beauty of Madikwe once it is safe to do so.
