By the time those longer, lazy days of summer arrive, game born in spring are more sure-footed and confident, often displaying their new-found attitude. Flora that flourishes in summer, now also attracts migrating birds that follow the sun. To date, some 250-plus bird species have been recorded in this natural haven.

The African bush is bursting with wildlife, which is a magical time to visit five-star Tau Game Lodge in the Madikwe Game Reserve, close to the Botswana border. Here, conservation is key.

Sustainable, eco-friendly, prolific wildlife, malaria-free, the Big Five and all the smaller game in-between, with some 27 major wild species roaming free in this natural habitat safeguarding nature for future generations, contribute to making Tau a bucket-list safari destination.

In the heat of the day, animals, like humans, must slake their thirst and all you need to do is dine on the delicious food, sip your preferred summer mid-day liquid refreshment, and watch the pecking order at the waterhole from the safety of the dining deck…

Recent returning guests have reported some of the many reasons why Tau remains their preferred safari destination, which include the luxurious, yet understated, relaxing ambience and décor, sublime game viewing, caring staff, and delicious food. The tented lounge, which also faces the waterhole, is a place of sublime conviviality, yet also offering private nooks for guests simply wishing to reflect on a day well spent. Here, many a new friendship has been formed when guests converse about their sightings of the day.

Game stir after their afternoon siesta, as do humans, which is an ideal time for the final game drive of the day, when the wildlife either has a final frolic before dusk, or, in the case of the nocturnal big cats, start to prepare for their big night ahead. This is also a time for those wild creatures to communicate with each other, sizing each other up, deciding where the hunt should take place, whilst the hunted become watchful…

Before heading back to the lodge to refresh for dinner, you will stop at a perfect spot for sundowners and refreshments, always under the watchful eye of a ranger driver.

One of the many drawcards of the region is the endangered African wild dog, respected for its community-oriented spirit, and which has been breeding successfully in the Reserve for many years.

All the chalets and hospitality facilities have panoramic vistas of the waterhole, which envelopes the lodge. The Tau Spa Oasis offers tranquil views of the verdant bush.

All safaris are conducted by highly skilled game rangers, who respect every aspect of the flora and fauna of this natural habitat, where man is a mere visitor, and the wild things rule.

For 29 years five-star Tau has hosted visitors from around the world with its authentic, warm hospitality.

The Tau Summer 2024 packages start fromR30,155- for two people for 2 nights when quoting SUMMER24 when making the booking,

including:

• Accommodation for 2 nights in a Luxury Standard Chalet
• 3 meals per day
• 2 game drives per day
• Drinks and snacks on safari drives
• All rates exclude:

Park Entrance fees, Rhino Conservation Levy, Tourism Levy, Bar, Mini Bar, Laundry and all extras.

The 24/7 Tau live webcam is armchair safari heaven at: http://taugamelodge.co.za/main-lodge/live-webcam/

Tau Game Lodge offers 30 rooms, from updated Luxury, and Standard Chalets, to Family Suites. Family-friendly, a Tau Spa Oasis, and a Conference & Events Centre. Malaria-free.