Written by Elka Schaimberg
Monday, 11 July 2011 12:41

Well known for its beautiful natural surroundings and modern luxurious settings, Tau Game Lodge in the Madikwe district, North West, boasts a variety of exceptional services for the discerning traveller – a once-in-a-lifetime experience to be enjoyed with family.

Tau Game Lodge, situated just short of the Botswana border in the Madikwe Private Game Reserve, is well worth the four-hour drive from Johannesburg. How great it was to exchange the smog of the big city for nature’s fresh air and leave the bright lights behind us for a big blanket of African stars. There’s nothing quite as exhilarating as experiencing wild Africa, and Tau Game Lodge, as the name suggests, is a place made especially for kings!
Deep in the heart of South Africa’s fourth-largest game reserve, you are simply surrounded by beauty. The Groot Marico not only boasts the rolling hills of the Tshwene-Tshwene but also offer the dramatic ridge of the Dwarsberg Mountains. The whole area is alive with the sweet scent of Mother Nature and teeming with an abundance of wildlife. Before even reaching the Tau gates we were met by a majestic pair of giraffe who almost seemed to usher us in.

The lodge manager, his wife and our very own lodge liaison were all awaiting our arrival with warm smiles. Our luggage was instantly whisked away and a valet made our car disappear out of site for the duration of our stay.
The space and elegance of the lobby – no expenses were spared on the décor front – certainly made a wonderful first impression.

Shortly after checking in, we were drawn to the deck overlooking a natural watering hole and took a few moments to absorb the breathtaking views. On the other side of the lobby, a sparkling pool with sun loungers naturally shaded by established trees beckoned. And just like that, we were ready to make Tau Game Lodge our home for the next few days.

Our private chalet was one of only 30. All of them are located within pristine, indigenous gardens and each embraces the spirit of Africa with modern luxury. Our very own private deck alongside the watering hole ensured endless hours of relaxation and pleasure as approaching animals came to our doorstep to cool off. A special treat was seeing a large herd of elephant enjoying a mud bath while their calves played in the water beside them.
There was also a friendly family of monkeys that kept us highly entertained. The chalet itself is fit for a king with a big bed, en suite bathroom, mosquito nets, air con, a bar fridge and all the added extras a royal heart may desire. The pièce de résistance was indeed the outdoor shower, where experiencing the million wonders of the Milky Way is just that easy. It’s really no surprise that Tau Game Lodge has hosted many international tourist and celebrities. So sorry we missed you, Kate Hudson!

Then just as we started to feel the stress slipping away, we went off to the Tau Spa Oasis, just to make sure that the good feeling stayed. We’d recommend taking yourself for an afternoon of pampering in the beautifully equipped treatment rooms that also offer great views. A varied menu of treatment options is available – from totally tranquil to entirely rejuvenating. The choice is yours!

Tau Game Lodge is recognised for its contribution to eco-conscious tourism, while also being actively involved in community development, including the education and wellbeing of its people. The Tau Tree Fund has proved popular with guests as each tree planted contributes to retaining and strengthening the ecology of the area. The ranger team also remains active in research and conservation projects within the reserve.
The game drives taken at dawn and dusk are led by experienced and knowledgeable rangers. We were lucky to witness a pride of lions lazing in the sun, a baby rhino being coached by his mother and a herd of buck enjoying the shade as they grazed in the shadows of thorn bushes. A great benefit is that you are able to share your once-in-a-lifetime experience at Tau with the whole family! Yes, children are welcome. In fact, the Tau Cubz Club is a delight for children – not to mention parents wishing for some private time during their stay.

After enjoying the wonders of the wild at the luxurious Tau Game Lodge, it must be said that this is a place that is certainly worth roaring about.

Special Offer for Afropolitans Only:
R2 175 per person per night sharing. This rate includes three meals and two safaris as well as a Tau Safari guide book. Special offer valid from 1 May to 31 July 2011.
Quote “Afropolitan” when making the booking. This rate only applies when booking directly with the Tau Reservations office (011 314 4350) and cannot be booked through a third party (travel agent or booking office). Terms and conditions apply
www.taugamelodge.co.za.