Madikwe Dithaba Lodge

The main area, with its open-sided lounge and glassed-in dining room, enjoys supreme vistas of the reserve. The thatched roof and sand-coloured walls give it a down-to-earth feel, and the furnishings strike just the right balance between smart and comfortable. Incorporating natural textures and materials such as wood, stone and brushed concrete, the decor blends harmoniously with its surroundings. Plush furnishings, a well-stocked bar, generous deck and cosy fireplace all ensure you'll want for nothing in this wilderness.

The four spacious suites all enjoy equally marvellous views of the reserve, and allow guests to be as independent and private as they like. Outside, the large decks, each with a plunge pool, and inside, the wood-burning fireplaces, may tempt you to linger at your suite. Beds are deeply welcoming too, with outward-facing views through foldaway glass doors. There are seating areas both indoors and out, and en- suite bathrooms with showers and deep stand-alone bathtubs – with a view.

Twice-daily activities are offered – game drives, bush walks, or more specialised outings such as birdwatching and astronomy. Drives are typically the core activity during a stay, but it's worth trying the other options to appreciate the breadth of what Madikwe has to offer. Unless the camp is booked on a private basis, activities will be shared with other guests. Look out for healthy populations of wild dog, lion, rhino, cheetah, hyena, baboon, giraffe, warthog, wildebeest and antelopes galore.