COST: $$$$$
Owned by safari company CC Africa, Madikwe Safari Lodge occupies the northwest corner of the nearly 190,000- acre malaria-free Madikwe Game Reserve in South Africa. The reserve is famous for 2004’s Operation Phoenix, the world’s largest game-translocation exercise, in which more than 8,000 native animals were brought in to restore the farmland to its natural environment. It was a great success, as witnessed by the fantastic game- and bird-watching there today. The 16 plush suites highlight design-guru Chris Browne’s natural touch. Circular stone fireplaces, outdoor showers, freestanding copper tubs, and springbok- fur comforters are sure to satisfy even the most jaded sybarites. South African designer Stephen Falcke mixes traditional elements (thatched roofs; carved-wood statues) with Fendi chaises and gilded Louis XVI–style chairs. Indeed, the lodge excels at fantasy fulfillment. Fancy a romantic wood-fired braai (barbecue)? A candlelit table and chef are at the ready. And let’s not forget the game drives: two a day with an expert ranger. Should you find yourself wondering where Africa lies in all of this, open the retractable glass walls of your suite and step out onto your deck. An elephant is around the corner.
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From Travel + Leisure, Feb 2005
“The 16 suites, spread through three camps, highlight design guru Chris Browne's simple touch with natural stonework and tree-trunk frames....” MORE>>
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