Whether you’re curled up on your private deck overlooking the waterhole or unwinding beside the fire after an exhilarating game drive, there’s something magical about reading on safari. At Madikwe Hills, we believe the best journeys continue off the page too. That’s why we’ve curated a safari reading list filled with African-inspired novels, memoirs, and field guides to enrich your stay in Madikwe Game Reserve. From timeless classics to contemporary page-turners, these books will deepen your connection to the land, the people, and the wildlife that make this destination so unforgettable.

Classic African Novels

Timeless works of fiction that capture the essence of Africa’s landscapes, cultures, and history.

The Power of One by Bryce Courtenay – A stirring coming-of-age story set in apartheid-era South Africa, following a young boy’s journey to empowerment through boxing.

Jock of the Bushveld by Sir Percy Fitzpatrick – The true tale of a brave Staffordshire Bull Terrier and his adventures through the untamed bushveld of 19th-century South Africa.

A Grain of Wheat by Ngũgĩ wa Thiong’o – A powerful novel exploring loyalty, betrayal, and freedom during Kenya’s Mau Mau uprising.

Things Fall Apart by Chinua Achebe – Achebe’s groundbreaking novel about pre-colonial Nigeria and the impact of British colonialism on Igbo society.

A Bend in the River by V.S. Naipaul – A richly layered narrative about post-colonial turmoil in central Africa, told through the eyes of an Indian trader.

Contemporary Fiction & Series

Immerse yourself in vivid, character-driven stories set across the African continent.

The No.1 Ladies’ Detective Agency series by Alexander McCall Smith – A charming mystery series set in Botswana, featuring the wise and witty detective Mma Ramotswe.

A Sunday at the Pool in Kigali by Gil Courtemanche – A haunting novel that humanises the Rwandan genocide through a love story set in Kigali.

We Need New Names by NoViolet Bulawayo – A bold and brilliant coming-of-age tale tracing a Zimbabwean girl’s move to America and her struggle to find belonging.

Homegoing by Yaa Gyasi – An epic multigenerational saga following two Ghanaian half-sisters and their descendants across Africa and America.

Half of a Yellow Sun by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie – A deeply moving novel that personalises the Nigerian Civil War through the eyes of three intertwined lives.

Memoirs & Biographies

Personal tales of resilience, conservation, and cross-cultural connection.

Out of Africa by Isak Dinesen (Karen Blixen) – Karen Blixen’s lyrical memoir recounting her life on a coffee farm in colonial Kenya and her love for the land and its people.

Cry of the Kalahari by Mark and Delia Owens – A riveting account of two young American zoologists who studied wildlife in the remote Kalahari Desert. The same author who wrote Where The Crawdads Sing.

Cathedral of the Wild by Boyd Varty – Boyd Varty’s soulful memoir about growing up at Londolozi Game Reserve and lessons learned in the African wilderness.

The Elephant Whisperer by Lawrence Anthony – The touching story of conservationist Lawrence Anthony’s relationship with a herd of wild, rogue elephants.

A Game Ranger Remembers by Bruce Bryden – Anecdotes and behind-the-scenes stories from the life of a veteran Kruger game ranger.

Dark Star Safari: Overland from Cairo to Cape Town by Paul Theroux: A travelogue that chronicles a journey through Africa.

Sand Rivers by Peter Matthiessen and Hugo van Lawick – A poetic account of a walking safari through Tanzania’s Selous Reserve, blending storytelling with natural history.

African History, Culture & Politics

Uncover the complexities of Africa’s past and present through these compelling reads.

The Scramble for Africa by Thomas Pakenham – A gripping history of the ruthless colonial conquest of Africa in the late 19th century.

Africa: A Biography of the Continent by John Reader – A sweeping, accessible look at the geological, anthropological, and political evolution of Africa.

The Old Way: A Story of the First People by Elizabeth Marshall Thomas – A reflection on the disappearing lifestyle of the Ju/’hoansi people of the Kalahari and their ancient wisdom.

The Healing Land: The Bushmen and the Kalahari Desert by Rupert Isaacson – A moving exploration of the San Bushmen’s spiritual connection to the land and their struggle for survival.

Born a Crime by Trevor Noah – Noah’s hilarious and poignant memoir of growing up mixed-race in apartheid and post-apartheid South Africa.

Field Guides & Nature Writing

Perfect companions for your safari experience—both educational and inspirational.

Sasol Birds of Southern Africa by Ian Sinclair and Phil Hockey – An essential field guide with detailed illustrations and birding tips for Southern Africa.

Roberts Bird Guide by Greg Davies, Ingrid Weiersbye, Hugh Chittenden – A comprehensive and trusted guide to the region’s bird species with maps, call descriptions, and ID notes.

The Safari Companion by Richard D. Estes – A must-have reference for understanding African mammal behaviour while on game drives.

The Kingdon Field Guide to African Mammals by Jonathan Kingdon – A richly illustrated guide covering all African land mammals, ideal for both beginners and experts.

Beat About the Bush by Trevor Carnaby – A fascinating and readable guide that answers curious safari-goers’ most frequently asked questions.

Your African adventure starts here

At Madikwe Hills, the stories you live are as vivid as those you read. Whether you’re tracking wild dogs with your guide or learning about elephant family dynamics in a field guide by the fire, our hope is that these books inspire reflection, awe, and wonder—both during your safari and long after you return home.

So pack a few titles from the list or pick one up while here, and let your next great story unfold against the backdrop of Madikwe’s untamed beauty.

Your African adventure starts here—book your stay at Madikwe Hills today.