Mafikeng Game Reserve

Mafikeng Game Reserve is a protected area in South Africa.

Mafikeng Game Reserve at a Glance

Location
North West & Central Bushveld, South Africa, Southern Africa
Coordinates
-25.866768, 25.722440
IUCN Category
II
Crowds
Moderate
Malaria Risk
None
Best Time to Visit
May to September (dry winter) for big game viewing. October to March for birdwatching and lush landscapes.

Getting to Mafikeng Game Reserve

Nearest airport: Unknown Airport, 17 km away.

Nearest international airport: Mahikeng International Airport (MBD), 19 km away.

Big Five in Mafikeng Game Reserve

2 of the Big Five can be found here: Leopard Tortoise, African Buffalo.

Weather & Climate in Mafikeng Game Reserve

The warmest temperatures in Mafikeng Game Reserve occur in December, averaging 23.1°C (up to 29.3°C). The coolest conditions are in July at 11.8°C.

The driest weather conditions are typically in July with average rainfall of 0.4mm. Average humidity: 39.6%.

Monthly Temperatures

  • January: 22.9°C (rainfall: 70.3mm)
  • February: 22.5°C (rainfall: 63.8mm)
  • March: 21.2°C (rainfall: 40.3mm)
  • April: 17.8°C (rainfall: 44.7mm)
  • May: 15.1°C (rainfall: 10.7mm)
  • June: 11.8°C (rainfall: 10.6mm)
  • July: 11.8°C (rainfall: 0.4mm)
  • August: 15.2°C (rainfall: 1.8mm)
  • September: 19.9°C (rainfall: 4.1mm)
  • October: 21.9°C (rainfall: 37.0mm)
  • November: 22.9°C (rainfall: 57.4mm)
  • December: 23.1°C (rainfall: 87.3mm)

Best Time to Visit Mafikeng Game Reserve

The best months to visit Mafikeng Game Reserve are September, October, January, based on temperature, rainfall, weather conditions, and wildlife viewing opportunities.

Month-by-Month Safari Conditions

  • January: Great, temperature 22.86°C, rainfall 70.3mm, sunshine 12 hrs, humidity 60.3%
  • February: Great, temperature 22.53°C, rainfall 63.8mm, sunshine 11.4 hrs, humidity 61.2%
  • March: Great, temperature 21.22°C, rainfall 40.3mm, sunshine 10.8 hrs, humidity 58.6%
  • April: Great, temperature 17.83°C, rainfall 44.7mm, sunshine 10.4 hrs, humidity 58.5%
  • May: Great, temperature 15.12°C, rainfall 10.7mm, sunshine 10.3 hrs, humidity 49.9%
  • June: Great, temperature 11.82°C, rainfall 10.6mm, sunshine 10 hrs, humidity 47.9%
  • July: Great, temperature 11.76°C, rainfall 0.4mm, sunshine 10.4 hrs, humidity 39.6%
  • August: Great, temperature 15.16°C, rainfall 1.8mm, sunshine 10.7 hrs, humidity 34.7%
  • September: Great, temperature 19.85°C, rainfall 4.1mm, sunshine 11.4 hrs, humidity 31.7%
  • October: Great, temperature 21.85°C, rainfall 37mm, sunshine 11.3 hrs, humidity 38%
  • November: Great, temperature 22.87°C, rainfall 57.4mm, sunshine 11.9 hrs, humidity 47.6%
  • December: Great, temperature 23.09°C, rainfall 87.3mm, sunshine 12.2 hrs, humidity 56.4%

Wildlife in Mafikeng Game Reserve

Home to 16 recorded species including 4 birds of prey, 4 big herbivores, 3 iconic birds, 2 antelope & gazelle, 1 reptiles, 1 big five.

Recommended Packing List for Mafikeng Game Reserve

Based on average temperature of 18.8°C, typical conditions, humidity 49%.

  • Light layers - comfortable for 19°C weather
  • Binoculars - essential for every game drive
  • Sun hat & sunscreen - protection from the African sun
  • Sturdy walking shoes - for bush walks and uneven terrain
  • Neutral-coloured clothing - khaki, olive, and tan blend with the bush
  • Insect repellent - essential in most safari regions
  • First aid kit - basic medical supplies for remote areas
  • Torch / headlamp - useful for evenings at camp
  • Camera with telephoto lens - capture your safari memories

Notable Species

Safari Lodges in Mafikeng Game Reserve

12 safari lodges available.

Other

budget

luxury

Similar Parks in North West & Central Bushveld

Health & Travel Info

Health & vaccination info for South Africa

Travel advisory for South Africa

Mafikeng Game Reserve FAQs

When is the best time of year to visit Mafikeng Game Reserve for optimal wildlife viewing?

The dry winter months, from May to September, are ideal for visiting Mafikeng Game Reserve. During this period, vegetation is sparse and animals congregate around water sources, making them easier to spot. The cooler temperatures also enhance comfort for game drives.

Can I self-drive through Mafikeng Game Reserve, and what are the typical entry costs?

Yes, Mafikeng Game Reserve is well-suited for self-drive safaris, offering an accessible and independent experience. Entry fees are generally affordable compared to larger national parks, typically ranging from R50-R100 per person for day visitors, with specific rates available on the North West Parks and Tourism Board website. This makes it a budget-friendly option for exploring at your own pace.

What unique wildlife can I expect to see at Mafikeng Game Reserve, particularly regarding its rhino population?

Mafikeng Game Reserve is particularly renowned for its successful white rhino breeding program, offering excellent opportunities to observe these magnificent animals. Beyond rhino, you can frequently spot buffalo, giraffe, zebra, wildebeest, and various antelope species like eland and red hartebeest, making for diverse game viewing. While predators like lion and leopard are present, sightings are less common than in some larger reserves.

What safety precautions should I be aware of when visiting Mafikeng Game Reserve, beyond the absence of malaria risk?

While Mafikeng Game Reserve is malaria-free, standard safari safety rules apply: remain in your vehicle during game drives unless in designated areas, maintain a safe distance from all wildlife, and never feed animals. Always follow park regulations and be aware of your surroundings, especially when walking in permitted areas, to ensure a safe and enjoyable visit.

How does the moderate crowding level (3/5) at Mafikeng Game Reserve impact the visitor experience compared to more popular parks?

The moderate crowding level at Mafikeng Game Reserve means you can generally enjoy a more tranquil and less congested safari experience compared to South Africa's larger, more famous parks. While you won't have the park entirely to yourself, you'll find fewer vehicles at sightings, allowing for a more intimate connection with nature and better photographic opportunities without feeling rushed. This balance offers a good blend of accessibility and wilderness immersion.

Recommended Books

  • The Handbook of Bird Photography by Markus Varesvuo, Jari Peltomäki & Bence Máté - Excellent for birding photographers on safari - covers technique, equipment, fieldcraft, and post-processing with stunning example images.
  • Photographing Wildlife in Africa by Paolo Torchio - Practical guide specifically for African safari photography - camera settings, lens choices, composition techniques, and how to make the most of game drives.
  • Fodor's The Complete Guide to African Safaris by Fodor's Travel - Country-by-country planning guide with lodge reviews, practical logistics, packing lists, and insider tips. Often cited as the best all-in-one safari planning resource.
  • Lonely Planet Botswana & Namibia by Lonely Planet - Covers the Okavango Delta, Chobe, Etosha, Sossusvlei, and the Skeleton Coast. Essential for self-drive safaris through two of southern Africa's wildest destinations.
  • Lonely Planet Zambia & Mozambique by Lonely Planet - From Victoria Falls and South Luangwa to Mozambique's pristine coastline. Practical advice for two of Africa's most rewarding off-the-beaten-path destinations.
  • National Geographic Kids: Safari by National Geographic - Age-appropriate wildlife facts with stunning photographs. Great for getting children excited about the animals they'll see on safari.
  • Lonely Planet Southern Africa by Lonely Planet - Covers South Africa, Botswana, Namibia, Zambia, Zimbabwe, and Mozambique. Practical planning information with detailed park and city guides.
  • Lonely Planet South Africa, Lesotho & Eswatini by Lonely Planet - Comprehensive guide to South Africa including Kruger, Garden Route, Cape Town, and the Drakensberg. Essential for self-drive safari planning.
  • The Elephant Whisperer by Lawrence Anthony - Incredible true story of saving a herd of rogue elephants in Zululand, South Africa. A massive bestseller that will change how you see elephants forever.
  • The Last Elephants by Don Pinnock & Colin Bell - Conservation-focused book combining beautiful photography with urgent storytelling about the threats facing Africa's elephant populations.
  • Here Is the African Savanna by Madeleine Dunphy - Beautifully illustrated picture book about the savanna ecosystem. Teaches children about the interconnected web of life on an African plain.
  • Safari: A Photographic Journey by Art Wolfe - Large-format coffee-table book from one of the world's most celebrated nature photographers. Stunning images from across the African continent.
  • The Kingdon Field Guide to African Mammals by Jonathan Kingdon - The definitive mammal field guide for Africa covering over 1,150 species with detailed illustrations. Considered the gold standard for safari-goers and researchers alike.
  • The Behavior Guide to African Mammals by Richard Despard Estes - Goes beyond identification to explain why animals behave as they do. Essential reading for safari-goers who want to understand the wildlife they observe.
  • Roberts Bird Guide by Hugh Chittenden, Greg Davies & Ingrid Weiersbye - Comprehensive southern African bird guide covering 960+ species with detailed range maps and illustrations. The birder's bible for safaris in South Africa, Botswana, and Namibia.
  • Remembering Lions by Various Photographers - Part of the acclaimed Remembering Wildlife conservation book series. Features contributions from world-class wildlife photographers, with proceeds supporting lion conservation.
  • African Animals ABC by Stella Blackstone & Petr Horacek - Simple alphabet book with bold, colourful animal illustrations. Perfect for toddlers and young children preparing for their first safari. Ages 2–5.
  • Beat About the Bush: Mammals by Trevor Carnaby - The single best book for understanding animal behaviour on safari. Explains why animals do what they do - feeding, mating, territory, predator-prey dynamics. Makes every game drive infinitely more rewarding.
  • Sasol Birds of Southern Africa by Ian Sinclair, Phil Hockey & Warwick Tarboton - The southern Africa birding bible. Covers over 950 species with detailed illustrations, distribution maps, and habitat notes. The most trusted bird field guide for South Africa, Botswana, Namibia, Zimbabwe, Zambia, and Mozambique.
  • Africa's Top Wildlife Countries by Mark W. Nolting - The most respected safari planning book in print. Detailed country-by-country guide covering parks, lodges, best times to visit, and what wildlife to expect. Updated regularly. The first book every safari planner should read.
  • The Safari Companion: A Guide to Watching African Mammals by Richard D. Estes - Part field guide, part planning tool. Explains mammal behaviour in a way that transforms game drives. Covers tracks, signs, social structures, and habitat preferences. A must-pack for serious safari-goers.
  • The Shadow of the Sun by Ryszard Kapuscinski - Widely considered the greatest book ever written about Africa. Kapuscinski spent 40 years reporting from across the continent. Vivid, poetic, and deeply insightful. Essential pre-safari reading for understanding the continent.
  • Elephant Company by Vicki Constantine Croke - The extraordinary true story of James Howard Williams and the elephants who helped him build bridges, extract teak, and ultimately rescue refugees across the Burmese jungle during WWII. Gripping and moving.
  • When the Last Lion Roars by Sara Evans - An urgent, accessible account of the African lion's decline from 200,000 to under 20,000 in a century. Covers the science, politics, and human stories behind lion conservation. Eye-opening pre-safari reading.
  • An Elephant in My Kitchen by Francoise Malby-Anthony - The moving sequel to The Elephant Whisperer, written by Lawrence Anthony's wife. Continues the story of the Thula Thula elephants after his death. A beautiful account of the bond between humans and elephants.
  • Ivory, Horn and Blood by Ronald Orenstein - The definitive book on the poaching crisis devastating African elephants and rhinos. Covers the criminal networks, the rangers fighting back, and what travellers can do. Important context for any safari visitor.
  • Last Chance to See by Douglas Adams & Mark Carwardine - Witty and heartbreaking tour of endangered species by the Hitchhiker's Guide author. Combines humour with urgent conservation messaging.
  • Owen and Mzee by Isabella Hatkoff, Craig Hatkoff & Paula Kahumbu - True story of an orphaned hippo befriending a 130-year-old tortoise in Kenya. A heartwarming tale of unlikely friendship that teaches empathy.
  • Remembering Elephants by Various Photographers - Stunning coffee-table book from the Remembering Wildlife series. All proceeds go to elephant conservation - beautiful photography with a purpose.
  • Whatever You Do, Don't Run by Peter Allison - Hilarious memoir from a Botswana safari guide - true stories from the bush that will have you laughing out loud. A favourite among safari enthusiasts.
  • Poached by Rachel Love Nuwer - Gripping investigation into the illegal wildlife trade - from African poaching networks to Asian markets. Essential reading for understanding the threats to safari wildlife.
  • Safari Nation by Jacob S. T. Dlamini - Fascinating history of South Africa's national parks and their complex colonial legacy. Academic but accessible - changes how you think about safari tourism.
  • Safari: A Photicular Book by Dan Kainen & Carol Kaufmann - Mesmerising book with moving photographic images of African animals. Kids and adults love the magical moving pictures - perfect pre-trip gift.