• Rhulani

    Safari Lodge

  • Rhulani

    Safari Lodge

  • Rhulani

    Safari Lodge
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Rhulani Safari Lodge | Madikwe

5 Star Madikwe Game Reserve image
Rhulani Safari Lodge lies atop a rocky ridge from where it commands sweeping views of Madikwe Game Reserve. Taking its name from the Tswana term Rhulani which means “to relax” this exclusive Lodge is the perfect destination for an exceptional African safari breakaway. In addition, Rhulani has the capacity to host small corporate events, and memorable one-of- a-kind nuptial celebrations.

Rhulani Safari Lodge can accommodate up to 18 guests in seven standard thatched suites and two luxury thatched suites which can be connected to create one family unit.

The ultra-luxurious suites have all been carefully positioned to afford you absolute solitude and uninterrupted views of the productive waterhole from your elevated wooden deck or private plunge pool. Each standard suite boasts a king-sized bed with a fireplace, full en-suite bathroom, outdoor shower, air-conditioning, fully-stocked bar fridge, safe, and a tea/coffee making station.

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    The opulent family unit features two spacious bedrooms, each with a fireplace, full en- suite bathroom, and outdoor shower plus all the other facilities offered in the standard suites. The bedrooms are joined by a sitting room with a sleeper couch that can be converted into two single beds for the kids. All the rooms lead onto the raised wooden patio which is equipped with a private plunge pool.

    Rhulani’s central hub displays the same refined décor, natural textures and earthy tones inspired by the breathtaking surrounding scenery that is found throughout the five-star suites. Here you can unwind in the lounge, grab a good read from the library or seek out a memento of your bushveld getaway in the charming curio shop. The pool area is the ideal spot to take refuge from the heat of the day and immerse yourself in the serenity of this wilderness refuge with a cool cocktail in hand.

    Come mealtimes, enjoy sensational South African cuisine in the elegant indoor dining room, under the glorious star-filled night skies in the fire-lit Boma. Or opt for a romantic dinner in the privacy of your suite deck. All meals are served with a choice of top local wines.

    An escape to Rhulani Safari Lodge equals plenty of opportunities to experience the magic of Big Five Madikwe Game Reserve. Outdoor adventures include early morning and late afternoon game drives in open Landcruisers, guided nature trails, birdwatching, and stargazing in the company of professional rangers.

    For wildlife enthusiasts wishing to support Madikwe’s conservation efforts, a once-in- a-lifetime chance to partake in activities – like rhino notching or buffalo collaring – can be organised by prior arrangement. For some revitalising downtime, pamper yourself with a variety of massages in the privacy of your suite or on your patio.

    As a family-friendly accommodation, Rhulani also provides a playroom where the kids can spend some safe fun-time playing with the toys and art supplies or watching DVDs. In addition, the Lodge offers a babysitting service for your convenience.

    If it’s a world-class conferencing facility you’re looking for, Rhulani’s beautiful convention centre is just right for intimate company retreats and seminars. The air-conditioned facility can cater to 30 delegates around an impressive leadwood table and offers AV equipment, stationery, and free Wi-Fi. Because Rhulani can only sleep a maximum of 18 guests, overflow can be arranged at an adjacent luxury game lodge.

    When it comes to planning a nuptial ceremony with a difference, Rhulani’s magnificent views, dedicated personnel, and genuine hospitality are sure to make your big day truly unforgettable.
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  • icon Rates
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Rates inclusive of 15% VAT • South African Rands • Subject to availability
Details 8 Apr 2018  to
13 Dec 2018		 14 Dec 2018 to
5 Jan  2019
Luxury Private Chalet - Per Person Per Night Sharing R5 505 R6 605
Luxury Family Suite (4 adults and 2 kids) R27 540 R33 050
Details 6 Jan 2019  to
12 Dec 2019		 13 Dec 2019 to
4 Jan  2020
Luxury Private Chalet - Per Person Per Night Sharing R6 105 R7 320
Luxury Family Suite (4 adults and 2 kids) R30 505 R 36 610

Private Chalet

Rates are per person per night sharing, including VAT
Single supplement: 50% of the per person sharing rate
We accept a maximum of 1 (one) child sleeping in the Private Chalet on a stretcher bed;
  • children between the ages of 0 and 5 years stay freeof charge;
  • children between the ages of 6 and 15years pay 50% of the per person adult rate when sharing the room with two adults;
  • children above 15 years sleep in their own room
Information Request
  • your estimated time of arrival and departure and mode of transpor
  • any special dietary requirements
  • a contact number while traveling
  • the names of all the guests in the party
  • the ages of children, if any
  • rooming lists (Twin, double who sharing with who)
  • any specific additional request (anniversaries, birthdays, honeymoon)
Family Unit
  • Rates are for up to 4 adults and 2 children, including VAT
Rates include
  • Complimentary welcome drinks
  • Luxury accommodation
  • Free WiFi internet in your room and all lodge areas
  • Stocked Nespresso coffee machine with complimentary tea & coffee in your room
  • NEW from 1.1.2019: Well stocked minibar in your room
  • 2 game drives of 3 - 3.5 hours each in an open game viewer, accompanied by a qualified ranger
  • Complimentary sundowners on game drive
  • All meals and snacks on a full board basis (includes breakfast / brunch, high tea, dinner, bottled water)
  • NEW from 1.1.2019: Selected local drinks which includes a personal selection of house wines, spirits, soft drinks, tea’s and coffees
  • Lunch on your day of arrival (upon request)
  • Emergency Medical Assistance
  • Pick-up and drop-off at Madikwe's Western airstrip
Rates exclude
  • Madikwe Game Reserve Gate Entry Fee:   VAT inclusive, subject to change without prior notice.
  • Madikwe Conservation Levy:  VAT inclusive, subject to change without prior notice.
  • All beverages not explicitly mentioned as included
  • NEW from 1.1.2019: All premium rated wines, spirits and imported champagnes, cigars & cigarettes
  • Massages, bushwalks, laundry, curios, excursions, private vehicle
  • Gratuities
All excluded items not prepaid by the guest can be paid at check-out.
Minimum stay
  • A minimum stay of 2 (two) nights is required on week-ends (Friday / Saturday); a minimum stay of 3 (three) nights is required during Peak season ( 14 Dec 2018 - 1 Jan 2019)
  • Bookings for one night on Fridays or Saturdays are only permitted no more than 5 days before the day
Children Policy
  • Children of all ages are welcome at Rhulani Safari Lodge.
  • Children under 12 are permitted on safari at the sole discretion of the field guide.
  • Children under the age of 6 are not permitted on safari, except if on a private vehicle.
  • Even on private vehicle safety needs to be considered and it remains the ranger’s decision whether certain sightings can be viewed whilst accompanied by small children.
  • A bumble drive can be organized for smaller children not joining game drives.
  • Rhulani offers a complimentary children’ s kit. There is a kiddie’s corner equipped with toys and DVD’s. We offer a children’s menu option.
  • Babysitting service is available at an extra cost.
Check-in & check-out times Check-in time is 2.00 pm (gate closes at 9.00pm, no exceptions)
Check-out time is 11.00 am (gate opens at 6.00am – no exceptions)
We try as much as possible to adapt the day's program to your individual arrival and departure times. However, at high occupancy we must adhere to our strict times in the interest of all guests. Check-out times are binding. For late arrivals to participate in the afternoon game drive is no longer possible.
Game Drives Our game drives take place in the Madikwe Game Reserve (Big 5 Reserve) under the guidance of qualified rangers in three open landcruisers. The allocation of the guests to the vehicles is under the responsibility of the Ranger. We consider the customer wishes as much as possible, in order to ensure that groups and families stay together, and that there will be sufficient space on each vehicle. The maximum number of guests on a vehicle is 7 (seven), so that the middle seat will be left free, for the comfort of the guests. In order to respond to exceptional situations such as unexpected unavailability of a vehicle or the wish of bigger groups or families staying together, we maintain the right of using the maximum capacity of 10 (ten) guests per vehicle.
  • Morning game drive departs from reception between 5.00am (January) and 6.30am (July).
  • Afternoon game drive departs after High Tea between 3.00pm (July) and 4.30pm (January).
Please note that the departing times of game drives are subject to seasonal changes and depend on weather conditions. Exact departing times are communicated to the guest at check-in.
Payment Terms & Conditions
  • A 50% deposit of the above total amount is required to confirm any reservation. Full payment of the balance is due 30 days prior to arrival. Bookings within 30 days require full payment upfront.
Cancellation Policy

The following cancellation terms and conditions will apply to reservations which are cancelled in part or in full as follows:

  • Only written cancellations are accepted
  • Cancellation up to 30 days prior to arrival: 25% of the total amount will be due
  • Cancellation between 29 and 15 days prior to arrival: 50% of the total amount will be due
  • Cancellation between 14 and 0 days prior to arrival: 100% of the total amount will be due
  • Refunds are subject to a 10% administration fee.
Departure Prior to Check Out Date
Guests checking out prior to the scheduled departure date are not entitled to receive a refund for the nights not used. Exceptions can be made in case that Rhulani Safari Lodge fails to provide promised essential services, such as non-availability of confirmed room category, impossibility to conduct the scheduled game drives or cancellation of meals. The following circumstances are not considered as failure to provide essential services: Bad weather conditions, rescheduled game drives because of weather, unstable or unavailable guest internet, quality of food, dissatisfaction with room infrastructure or cleanliness, or quality of game viewing.
 
 Individual Rates 2018 (incl. Last Minute) (all values in ZAR)
LUXURY PRIVATE CHALET
Rates are per person per night sharing, including VAT
SEASON PERIOD ADVANCE LAST MINUTE
14 DAYS
Standard whole year
except Peak Season 		R5,200 R3,900
Peak 14 Dec - 5 Jan 19 R6,240 R3,900
  • Single supplement: 50% of the per person sharing rate
  • One extra bed (stretcher bed) for a child up to 15 years can be added.
  • Children  under the age of 6 years stay free of charge.
  • Children between 6 and 15 years pay 50% of the adult rate when sharing the room with two adults

LUXURY FAMILY UNIT
Rates are per person per night sharing, including VAT
SEASON PERIOD ADVANCE LAST MINUTE
14 DAYS
Standard whole year
except Peak Season		 R26,000 R19,500
Peak 14 Dec - 5 Jan 19 R31,200 R19,500

NOTES 

  •  Bookings for one night on Fridays or Saturdays are only permitted no more than 5 days before the stay 
  •  Peak Season: a minimum stay of 3 nights is required
 

Water cascades gently into the meandering rock pool around which you will find ample sun or shade provided by beautiful old Marula trees, an ideal spot for quiet contemplation. Indoors and outdoors merge effortlessly at Rhulani, ensuring you magnificent views of the bush.

Sit and meditate awhile; your comfort is assured as you relax surrounded by earthy rich African colour and our warm hospitality. During the day you can go on short walks with the ranger after breakfast, or lounge in the double hammocks around the swimming pool sipping your favourite drink. Alternatively, laze away the day in our spacious bush bar and deck overlooking the riverbed and watering hole. For exclusive tranquillity there is a tree house about 2.5 kms from the camp overlooking a dam, where we can leave you for an hour or two with blankets and big comfortable pillows as well as a cooler box with drinks.

In the evening you will be treated to pre dinner drinks in the traditional boma around the fire, followed by one of Umlani's award winning meals in the candle lit dining room, or out in the open riverbed surrounded by flares and cauldron fires.

Our beautiful conference centre, which accommodates up to 30 delegates around our unique leadwood conference table. Conferences can be organised from a to z through our reservations to suite your itinerary. We have nine rooms available at Rhulani however overflow can be arranged at our neighbouring 5 star lodge.

We recommend exclusivity for conferencing. 9 rooms available. Indoor / outdoor. Formal / informal. Standard equipment and Data projector available. 9 luxury suites available Inhouse conference organisation team available to help you.

Travelling tips
  • Keep to the speed limit, especially when it drops down from 120km to 80km and 60km. The traffic officials are often at these spots including the small villages where the speed limit is 60km.
  • The best bathroom facilities en route will be at the Wimpy in Swartruggens or Zeerust.
  • If your vehicle takes unleaded fuel, fill up in Zeerust (as you will have another 200km before you return) as the petrol stations between Zeerust and Madikwe are often out of unleaded fuel.
  • Please enter in contact with our front of house at the day of your arrival, especially if you arrive after 2pm, so that we can organize for you the activities and meals for the remaining time of the day.
  • Should you have any trouble while on the road, please contact the lodge direct on +27 82 907 9628 – our staff will do their best to assist you.
  • Do you want to get a feeling of how the road looks like? Watch the second episode of Rhulani Insights video blog, in which owner Rolf is driving to Rhulani.
​Road transfer from Johannesburg or Gaborone to Rhulani
Our arriving guests have the option to book a road transfer to Rhulani from Johannesburg OR Tambo Int'l Airport, Johannesburg city (including surrounding areas) and from Gaborone. Please contact our Front of House and we will eagerly assist you with the reservation.
The indicative rates for road transfers can be found in our Rates section, Road transfer service is subject to availability.

Road transfers

Our suppliers are professional tour operators. The drivers/guides are fully accredited and medically cleared. All vehicles are comprehensively insured to carry International Tourists (PDP). Rates include driver, vehicle, fuel and toll fees.

Road transfer rates from Johannesburg to Madikwe

2018 per way: 1-3 passengers R4,100 / 4-7 passengers R4,700 / 8-13 passengers R6,100
2019 per way: 1-3 passengers R4,425 / 4-7 passengers R5,175 / 8-13 passengers R6,375

Road transfer rates from Gaborone to Madikwe

2018 One way transfer: 1-3 passengers R1,900 / 4-6 passengers R3,100 / 7-13 passengers R4,900
2019 One way transfer: 1-3 passengers R2,040 / 4-6 passengers R3,335 / 7-13 passengers R5,185

2018 Return transfer: 1-3 passengers R3,400 / 4-6 passengers R5,200 / 7-13 passengers R8,900
2019 Return transfer: 1-3 passengers R3,680 / 4-6 passengers R5,555 / 7-13 passengers R10,080

Air transfer from Johannesburg to Madikwe

Rhulani's arriving guests have the option to book an air transfer with Federal Airlines (daily scheduled flight) from Johannesburg OR Tambo Int'l Airport to the western airstrip of Madikwe. Our staff will be awaiting your arrival at the airstrip at no extra charge and bring you to the lodge, which is 20 minutes away and will already be your first safari. Please contact our Front of House and we will eagerly assist you with the reservation.
The indicative rates for air transfers can be found in our Rates section, Air transfer service is subject to availability.
Guests who arrive by helicopter can land directly at the lodge as Rhulani has its own helicopter pad. Please make your arrangement with our Front of House well in advance.

Air transfers
Our supplier is Federal Airlines (Fedair). You will be welcomed on your arrival at Johannesburg OR Tambo Int'l Airport and escorted to the departure lounge. After a 45 minute flight, you will land on the Western Airstrip of Madikwe Game Reserve, where you will be greeted by Rhulani's ranger and brought to the lodge (15 minutes drive). Your first safari!

Daily scheduled flight from Johannesburg OR Tambo Int'l Airport

From Johannesburg to Madikwe: 13:00h (arrival 14:00h); additional flight in Jan, Feb, Mar, Apr, Jul, Aug, Oct, Dec: 10:00h (arrival 11:00h)

From Madikwe to Johannesburg: 11:15h (arrival 12:15h); additional flight in Jan, Feb, Mar, Apr, Jul, Aug, Oct, Dec: 14:30h (arrival 15:30h)

Rates for 2018: R3,960 per person one way flight, South African Residents: R2,270

Rates for 2019: R4,080 per person one way flight, South African Residents: n/a

Please make sure you have enough time at the terminal of Johannesburg OR Tambo Int'l Airport, if you have a flight connection. Please note the current terms and conditions regarding check-in times and luggage restrictions by Fedair. Landing & departure times may be delayed due to waether conditions or animal obstructing the runway in Madikwe. Rhulani cannot be held responsible for flight delays.

Charter flight
Please let us know if you would like us to organize a charter flight for you.

Helicopter
Rhulani safari Lodge has its own helipad.

Succumb to the peace and tranquility of this spectacular setting. Enjoy the total privacy of your own private plunge pool while you relax in the spacious luxury of your private chalet. The 7 chalets are air-conditioned for warm summer evenings and have a Morso fireplace for the cool winter nights. All rooms are fully equipped with coffee and tea stations and a fully stocked bar fridge. The en-suite bathrooms have an oval bath, twin basins; both in and outdoor showers.

The 2 bedroom luxury family suite has 2 en-suite bedrooms, with outdoor showers, all the rooms lead on to the private deck with plunge pool. The bedrooms have air-conditioning and Morso fireplaces. The extra-large bedrooms can accommodate 2 comfortable stretcher beds for children or the lounge can be converted into 2 single beds. Massage treatments in the privacy of your room or on your private deck. Wireless internet connection free of charge is available in each chalet.

General Information
  • No pets allowed
  • All firearms need to be declared at the Main Gate
  • Gates open at 6.00am and close at 6.00pm
  • It is important to drive carefully and be aware of village pedestrians, domestic animals and children.
  • Speed limit in the park is 40km per hour
Tipping recommendations

Any gratuities are much appreciated. Cash tips are normally given in South African Rand or American dollars. We allow tipping by credit card. The figures bellow represent suggested minimum amounts -- if you receive exceptional service, a greater tip is always appreciated!

Rangers: R125 ($10 U.S. dollars) per guest per day in a shared vehicle. Therefore, if you are with 5 people in your party and stay at the lodge for 3 nights, you would tip the individual R1,875 ($150 U.S. dollars). Please tip your ranger separately, as we have a “staff pool” for any other staff.

Other staff: R125 ($10 U.S. dollars) per guest per day.
Activities included during your stay
Game viewing
Experience the sensational game viewing opportunities that await you at Rhulani, whether it is from an open Land Cruiser, on foot with your experienced game ranger, or from the front of the lodge at the nearby waterhole.

Birdwatching
Discover some of the 350 bird species Madikwe boasts.

Dining
Try the exquisite dining experience under the magnificent African night sky, warmed by a roaring fire. In addition, a variety of indoor and outdoor dining locations are also available. For those special occasions, enjoy a romantic dinner on your own private deck.

Our traditional Southern African cuisine is complemented by a selection of world-class South African wines.

Star gazing
Learn why mother Earth sent Scorpion to kill Orion during star gazing session. According to World Travel Market Global Trends report 2010, 50% of the world's population can no longer see the stars so few places remain in the world where people can enjoy the skies pollution-free. So don’t miss this opportunity to experience the grandeur of the heavens under a South African sky, weather permitting.

Swimming pool
Enjoy a cocktail around the swimming pool that overlooks the Madikwe Game Reserve. Lie on loungers on our wooden sun-deck to enjoy the warmth of Africa.

Children's activities
Let your children have fun in the playroom equipped with toys, art supplies and DVDs. We also have babysitters who will keep an eye on them while they are in the playroom, or while they take time off to hunt for bugs together.

Curio shop
Treat yourself to some fine souvenirs from our well-stocked curio shop that offers a wide range of South African artistic creations as well as safari clothes and curios.

Activities you can add when at Rhulani

Massages & Treatments
Indulge in a variety of massages in the privacy of your own room or on your private deck. See our current Massage & Treatment program here.

Bush walks
Feel the butterflies in your stomach and experience the African bush by going on a guided bush walk with our qualified ranger.

Excursions to Botswana
Visit the city of Gaborone, capital of Botswana, only 40km away from Rhulani. Learn about the rich cultural traditions of the Tswana people, or explore settings for The No. 1 Ladies' Detective Agency – popular mystery novels by Alexander McCall Smith – now televised.

Activities subject to prior arrangement

Bush wedding
If you’re a bush fanatic at heart, or simply love the peace and quiet that being in the middle of nature has to offer, then why not choose to have your wedding with us?
Read here about the bush-wedding from Sara and Francisco

Conservation activities
Do you want to give support to Madikwe Game Reserve’s conservation activities? Are you interested in learning more about rhino protection measures and organise a rhino-notching event for your group of travelers during your stay at Rhulani? Or are you interested in participating in lion contraception or buffalo collaring?

Conferencing
Our beautiful conference centre accommodates up to 30 delegates around our unique leadwood conference table. Conferences can be organised through our Reservations department and will be designed to suit your itinerary.
We have nine rooms available at Rhulani, however, overflow can be arranged at our neighbouring five-star lodge. 

Need Assistance ?

South Africa RSA  +27 87 820 0021

Business Hours

Mon – Fri: (09:00 - 17:00)
Sat: (09:00 - 13:00)
Time Zone UTC/GMT +2 hours

E-mail: safaris@madikwe.net

 
        

About Madikwe

What sets us Apart!

• MALARIA FREE
• Ideal for family or small groups
• Rich biodiversity of game
• Large elephant population
• Over 350 bird species
• Effortless road and air access

Why Book With Us?

• Personal inter-action
• Lodges with high standards
• Stay in control of your booking
• Most special deals by far
• Secure payment process (SSL)
• South African based
• Superior knowledge
• Expert advice
• No booking fees

Entry Fees

•Once-off payment
• Paid directly by clients
• Park fees
  - R180 per Adults per STAY
  - R105 Child per  STAY
• Guest Conservation Contribution
  - R150 per Adults per DAY
   - R75 per Child (under 12 years) per DAY
• SUBJECT to change without notice
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• Once-off payment
•Paid directly by clients
•Flight landing fee
  - R240 per Adult
  - R150 per Child (under 12 years)
• SUBJECT to change without notice