Strength in Numbers

The Batlokwa Boo Kgosi traditional community, looking to escape harsh imperialist taxation, left their ancestral lands in 1886 and migrated to the eastern bank of the Marico River, in what is now known as the village of Molatedi. Over the following generations, the community flourished, eventually gaining recognition from the government. Committed to his people’s prosperity, Kgosi (tribal chief) Bafshoe Frans Mogalenyana Matlapeng established the Sebolao Development Trust, which led to the creation of Thakadu River Camp, a wholly-owned, community-based ecotourism safari camp within the Madikwe Game Reserve. The Thakadu River Camp, inaugurated in August 2006, stands as a collaborative venture between Molatedi and North West Province’s Parks and Tourism Board. Under a 45-year lease, the community owns and operates this commercial lodge, enjoying traversing rights across the game reserve. Crucially, all economic benefits from the development flow directly back to the community.

The camp itself consists of twelve luxury tents overlooking the Marico River. Each tent was carefully constructed to fit into the surroundings, with the use of natural materials such as wood and stone, while also paying homage to the region’s rich heritage, with textiles and traditional artifacts decorating the property. The riverine forest setting boasts a tremendous diversity of fauna and flora, and the hospitality and service at the Thakadu River Camp will only leave you wanting for one thing: more time there.