ABOUT THE LODGE

Buffalo Ridge is unique for many reasons, none more so than the fact it is one of only a few of its kind in South Africa. A lodge wholly owned by a local rural community. Known as Balete, the owners of Buffalo Ridge live in the village of Lekgophung, just west of Madikwe. Their story is one of endurance and hardship, but also of joy and triumph. Like many such places, Lekgophung was shaped by the history of our country. Its people have deep roots in the North West.

They are members of the Botswana, the great tribe that has lived in and around the fringes of the Kalahari for many centuries. Their graves are scattered across the landscape, including Madikwe itself. They speak Setswana, the common language of the Batswana, they have their own chief and their own totem, the buffalo. And as a clan they have their own traditions and way of life.

Buffalo Ridge Safari Lodge is the product of an opportunity presented by North-West Parks, for the Balete Ba Lekgophung to develop a lodge business that offers economic and social benefits to the community. The lodge, operated by Nightjar Collection, is managed by a dedicated team from within the community offering our guests a very special lodge and safari experience.

Buffalo Ridge Safari Lodge is situated at a prime site in the west of the Madikwe Game Reserve and opened in November 2004.

Straddling the Tweedepoort Ridge with expansive views across the northern plains and Inselbergs. The central lodge sits on the slopes of a hill across a ravine, separating it from the chalets.

Summer – October to March

• This is the rainy season with hot days and warm nights. Temperatures range from 25°C – 40°C.

Winter – April to September

• This is the dry season with generally warm days and cold nights. Temperatures range from 0°C – 25°C.