Where to Stay
Every captivating tailor-made itinerary needs a perfect base. Our team has handpicked this collection of properties to give you luxury options in styles to suit any adventure.
Madikwe and The Waterberg
One of South Africa’s largest game reserves, Madikwe Game Reserve is home to the Big Five and has a healthy African wild dog population.
Bordering Botswana to its north, Madikwe reserve is one of the best run in the country. Some 8,000 animals including lion, elephant, cheetah, rhino and buffalo were introduced to the reserve during one of the biggest wildlife translocation projects in the world, “Operation Noah” some 20 years ago and have flourished in this unique environment.
The Waterberg, identified as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve is also home to plenty of wildlife, boasts some impressive birdlife plus a fascinating history. Dominated by the rugged beauty of the Waterberg Mountain Range, this area was home to the San Bushmen for thousands of years, evidence of which can be seen at rock art sites throughout the area.
Why visit Madikwe and The Waterberg
- Excellent malaria-free game reserves, perfect for family friendly safari holidays
- Rich diversity of vegetation and terrain from open plains to riverine bush ensures a wide variety of game
- Accessible and easily combined with other highlights in South Africa and beyond
- Madikwe is great for the Big Five and The Waterberg has some of the best horse-riding in the country
Cape Town and the Kruger National Park
Holiday Idea
This holiday idea to South Africa can easily be extended or adapted to include a safari in the Madikwe and Waterberg game reserves, easily reached overland from Johannesburg.
Experiences
Tell us what you love doing and we’ll curate a journey that’s perfect for you.
Africa
Ant’s Hill Safari Lodge – The Ant Collection
Built on the edge of a cliff, Ant’s Hill Safari Lodge is a fantastic base for a range of different travellers and is part of The Ant Collection. With an open and friendly atmosphere, guests are…
South Africa
Lepogo Noka Camp
Nestled in the heart of Lapalala Game Reserve, atop a spectacular 100 foot rock face, lies Noka Camp. Overlooking the Palala River below, Noka Camp encourages complete tranquillity with unparalleled comfort, whilst being a fantastic base…
Meet our experts
A passion for travel runs right through every one of our experts - meaning they're always ready with first-hand insight about their specialist countries.
Rachael Tallents
Adventure, discovery and my curiosity for people and the natural world is what drives my love of travelling. I am grateful for my parents’ desire to explore, and from an early age my eyes were open to diverse landscapes, cultures, and underwater worlds.
For the last 16 years, I have worked for a leading luxury tour operator designing incredible journeys for discerning clients and travelled to some magical places. I am excited to have joined Steppes Travel, and to be working for a company with such strong ethical and sustainable values.
Talk with our experts
- 01285 880 980
Illona Cross
Born in a small South African town, I have always followed my passion for nature and discovery. After studying Nature Conservation in Pretoria, I was one of the first women to complete a very tough cadetship in the Natal Parks Board. It was here where I cut my teeth in African wildlife management.
Talk with our experts
- 01285 880 980
Chris Johnston
Chris is the Conde Nast Traveller chosen Specialist for Africa.
25 years ago, my first trip to Africa took on a life of its own. I planned for three months, I stayed for two years. Whilst there, I was mistaken for a priest, attacked by sharks and arrested. Yet the countless, clattering journeys opened my eyes to the beauty of the landscapes and the grace of the people. My recent trips are undoubtedly more comfortable, but the welcome is as warm as ever and the best experiences are still those I never see coming.
Talk with our experts
- 01285 880 980
Why Choose Steppes?
Our knowledge, curiosity and expertise set us apart, driving us to create remarkable holidays and Beautiful Adventures tailored perfectly to you, carefully curated to help protect and conserve our planet.
Are you ready to Discover Extraordinary?
Featured in the press
