Jamala Madikwe

As an avid traveler and reviewer, Jamala magically and uniquely inspired me. The incredible reviews and ratings are all on point, so I wanted to share a few additional insights to not only sing the praises of the ownership (Rodney & Nico), team, and lodge, but to capture all its beauty and thoughtfulness. The name is rooted in ‘casual elegance’, and this is 100% what the entire experience delivers! Without hesitation, I recommend Jimala to any traveler, and particularly those who are discerning and appreciate exceptional beauty and service. Impressions: Setting: Thoughtfully designed, and newly constructed in 2022, the modern main lodge has endless spots to enjoy the watering hole. The lodge has upper and lower viewing locations of an enormous watering location which the animals love. You can see 15+ species from the lap of luxury. Rodney, one of the owners studied design, and it is in every corner of all the spaces. Candles, fireplaces, unique art, excellent layered lighting, and Charolette Rhys South Africa products throughout the property. Housekeeping: Attention to every detail twice a day. They perfectly time their service while you are dining. The turn down service is unbelievable, as your king bed is in a specific all glass door room and they close all the drapes and netting around the bed creating a sleeping cocoon with every turn down detail I have seen in 5 and 6 star properties; including starting a fire in the winter months. Villas: 5 villas on a winding path with #1 closest to lodge and #5 at the end. Impeccably designed and outfitted. Every detail has been incorporated: changing room with extensive free fully stocked mini-bar; luxurious bathroom with abundance of towels, products, and spaces; multiple outdoor seating areas and a cool shower where you see the animals while getting clean; living room with fireplace/games/sherry. And, and, and… Cuisine & Cocktails: 3 meals daily - breakfast after safari, high tea/lunch at 230pm, and dinner at 7-730pm. The will accommodate any special requests or timing, although following their schedule is perfect. Jacques, the Executive Chef (there are 2 others) has a warm personality and is incredibly skilled. HIs soups and sauces are world class, and his creativity shines for the tea - some of the spreads were so beautiful and expansive, we were simply overwhelmed. In addition to free house wine and spirits, which are at every turn; they have a premium cocktail and wine list, and the team will make you anything. Safari: 2 experienced and tenured guides. Ours was Lazy, whose gentle voice and warmth make you appreciate him immediately. 3 modern vehicles for 2 drives at-day with collaboration from guests on routine. Again, NOTHING is missed: ponchos, blankets, hot water bottles, coffee and cocktail service, and then you return to warm scented towels and a unique house made shot each evening. Madikwe is impressive with abundant wildlife and virtually every animal in the country of South Africa -

Surreal on all levels. So luxurious in the middle of the bush. People are wonderful -- felt like they were family members. Food and setting were fabulous. Watching the watering hole is one of the greatest experiences of my life. Game drives were varied and interesting.

Our second visit to this beautiful place, we love it. We saw all the Big 5 plus cheetah, wild dogs and many more amazing animals. The watering hole has to be the best there is and provides an ever changing array of wildlife to watch either from a sofa or the pool. We really enjoyed the safari’s, the usual morning and late afternoon drives but also walking and day safari’s. The hospitality here is the best we have encountered on safari and the food and drinks likewise, just fabulous. Thank you to the whole team at Jamala for creating magical memories we will always treasure.

I am a biased reviewer as my husband and I have visited Jamala 5 times in total (that should tell you something)! The new lodge is wonderful, very tastefully furnished and comfortable, we loved spending time there watching the very active Waterhole directly in front of the lodge, entitled sofa safari-ing! The Safari rangers have been with Jamarla for many years, they are very experienced and personable. The staff looking after the guests have also been at the lodge for a long time - some from the very beginning, they certainly know how to look after the guests and we always feel very spoilt. The owners do not hide away, they are always there to hear about your wonderful Safari experiences. I can safely guarantee that you will not be disappointed

Amazing location with an incredible view over a very busy waterhole. Palatial cottages, wonderful service, incredible food and every detail taken care of. Many thanks Rodney, Niko, Lazarus, Precious, Lawrence, Happy and the rest of theteam for a fantastic weekend