Living Her Vision

Madikwe has many options for lodging ranging from public to private and from standard to luxury.

For our trip, we stayed at Madikwe Hillhouse Lodge. Because my mother and father-in-law, planned the trip, they chose the same lodge where they stayed on their previous visit. Our trip was scheduled for December 2019, but it was planned a year in advance so that we could reserve the lodge.

Madikwe Hillhouse Lodge is private, so you will not find rates online. The best way to book is either through a Safari Guide who works directly with the lodge or through direct contact with the lodge owner.

Hillhouse Lodge is considered a luxury lodge. The lodge, situated on private land within the game reserve, can accommodate about ten people. There is a total of five rooms on the property each with its own bathroom. Each room has safari-themed décor, and they are beautiful. I have no complaints about our stay.

Well…the only complaint I have were the bugs, but honestly, that is just a part of being in the African Bush. My advice would be to bring bug spray that can be used on linens, keep your suitcase closed when it’s not in use, and shake any closed-toe shoes before putting your feet in them.

The lodge employs two chefs and a cleaning staff who are there daily. You are served breakfast, lunch, and dinner in addition to the sunrisers and sundowners served during the game drives. Virginia and Kenneth were the chefs during our stay, and they were amazing. The meals were a combination of South African, American, and other international cuisines. Prior to your trip, the Hillhouse Team will ask for any dietary restrictions.

Finally, although we went during the Christmas holiday, there was no need to pack fancy clothes or heels because the clothing at the lodge is casual. Because we went as a family, we were the only guests there.

Note 1: The lodge provided bug spray for each room.

Note 2: Although the lodge can accommodate ten people, the safari jeep comfortably fits nine passengers, not including the guide.

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