Thanks for an amazing time here at Jaci’s Tree Lodge. We saw a lot of wonderful animals. One of the best moments was to drive through the rain with Salomon, our guide. We will come back one day!
Philemon & Patrick (Switzerland) – October 2012
Introduction
Back in 1990 the site where Jaci's Lodges stand today were dusty North West province mealie fields, and the only animals around were of the domestic variety...
However, as soon as the Bophuthatswana government declared that the land could be put to better use as a wildlife sanctuary and tourist destination, Jan and Jaci van Heteren’s vision for a authentic, friendly african safari lodge was born.
Jan and Jaci van Heteren
In 1991, the Madikwe Game Reserve was formally declared. Over the next three years more than 8 000 animals were moved to Madikwe as part of the world’s biggest wildlife relocation project - Operation Phoenix. The mammoth transfer of a variety of 8000 diferent game species included, for the first time, relocating entire family herds of elephants, as well as introduction of the highly endangered Wild Dogs, Spotted Hyaena, Hippo and Lions - to mention a few of the "famous" arrivals.
Jaci and Jan moved to Madikwe, built and opened the first lodge in the reserve, Madikwe River Lodge, in the mid ’90s. They later sold their interest in the lodge, but the couple soon realised they missed Madikwe and wanted to be back in the reserve. They returned to Madikwe and opened Jaci's Safari Lodge.
the van heteren children - bush wise!
Jaci’s Tree Lodge followed three years later, fulfilling Jan's dream of building a lodge on stilts, with both venues benefiting from the individual yet complementary talents of the owners. While Jan focuses on the cuisine, hospitality and the financial side of the business, Jaci has applied her creative flair to the unique colourful décor, as well as the marketing & reservations.
The ongoing success of both lodges some 20 years later is testament to the Van Heterens’ insight into the needs of couples, groups and families looking for a relaxing, upmarket safari getaway, set amid the arid beauty of the African bushveld.
From Twitter
- Fauna & Flora: (Fireflies) A chemical reaction within the firefly’s light organ produces the light—oxygen... http://t.co/MLYcV3jRpZ – 6 hours, 51 minutes ago.
- Congratulations to Jaci's Tree Lodge on receiving a certificate of Excellence from Trip Advisor!! A very big... http://t.co/9dDQwMaBrF – 23 hours, 38 minutes ago.
Discover the serenity and beauty that makes Jaci’s Lodges a unique wildlife destination where the Big Five are just one of many spectacular attractions.
