New Biosecurity Measures at Madikwe Game Reserve Amid South Africa’s Foot and Mouth Disease Outbreak
Travellers planning a visit to Madikwe Game Reserve, one of South Africa’s premier malaria-free safari destinations, should prepare for newly introduced entry protocols aimed at strengthening biosecurity. The North West Parks and Tourism Board (NWPTB) has implemented mandatory health and safety procedures at the reserve’s entrance to combat the ongoing Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD) outbreak affecting multiple provinces across South Africa.
Effective from February 2026, these enhanced entry requirements apply to all visitors, regardless of whether they arrive by road transfer, self-drive, or chartered flight. The initiative forms part of a broader national effort to curb the spread of FMD—a highly contagious viral disease that affects cloven-hoofed animals such as cattle, antelope, and buffalo, including the native African buffalo population within Madikwe.
Upon arrival at Madikwe, guests will undergo several additional procedures designed to protect the reserve’s delicate ecosystem. All visitors must complete registration with NWPTB officials, presenting valid identification such as a passport or South African ID. Following this, vehicles will be subjected to tyre disinfection at the gate, while guests are required to pass through disinfectant footbaths before entering the reserve grounds. These measures also extend to all staff and service providers operating within Madikwe.
The introduction of these biosecurity protocols reflects the vital need to safeguard wildlife populations during this significant animal health crisis. African buffalo, which are natural carriers of the FMD virus, reside in Madikwe, making the reserve especially vulnerable to disease transmission. By enforcing strict sanitation and verification steps, Madikwe aims to maintain its ecological integrity and prevent further outbreaks that could impact the region’s biodiversity and tourism appeal.
From a visitor’s perspective, these changes are largely precautionary and will not disrupt the quality or enjoyment of the safari experience inside the reserve. However, travellers should anticipate slightly longer arrival times due to the necessary formalities. It is advisable for guests to allow extra time when entering the reserve, keep identification documents handy, and comply with all instructions regarding vehicle and personal sanitation.
Importantly, it is worth noting that Foot and Mouth Disease does not pose any health risk to humans, and there are no restrictions on any tourism activities within Madikwe. These biosecurity efforts are focused exclusively on protecting animal populations that are integral to the reserve’s ecosystem and the broader health of South Africa’s wildlife sector.
For the African travel industry, Madikwe’s proactive approach underscores the importance of integrating health security into wildlife tourism management, especially as emerging animal diseases pose ongoing challenges. Safeguarding natural assets like Madikwe not only preserves biodiversity but also supports the continent’s reputation as a world-class safari destination.
Ultimately, visitors to Madikwe should view these new entry requirements as a small but essential step to ensure their safaris remain safe, sustainable, and uninterrupted. With these measures in place, Madikwe Game Reserve continues to offer an exceptional wildlife experience while protecting its unique environment amid South Africa’s current animal health challenges.
