This malaria-free “Big-5” family owned and operated private Game Reserve comprises nearly 9000 hectares of pristine wilderness that spans across 5 different eco-systems (riverine forest, valley bushveld, savannah grasslands, fynbos and acacia woodlands). The reserve is home to more than 25 species of game including Lion, Elephant, Leopard, Buffalo, Rhino, Hippo, Hyena, Giraffe, Zebra, Wildebeest, Waterbuck, Nyala, Kudu, Warthog and a variety of other Antelope and more than 280 species of birds amongst which are the high soaring Martial, Crowned and Fish Eagles which nest on the Reserve. Kariega prides itself in the abundance of general game and birdlife supplementing the “Big-5”. A unique feature is the ability to walk freely and safely amongst the game in an area of the reserve which excludes the dangerous “Big 5” animals.

Location

Situated in the Eastern Cape province of South Africa, at the end of South Africa’s famous Garden Route. The Reserve incorporates the Kariega and Bushman’s Rivers, is 14km from Kenton-on-Sea and 141km from Port Elizabeth.

Accommodation

Kariega Main Lodge

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Kariega Main Lodge offers families, friends and couples a relaxed and friendly environment to enjoy the African bush. All the log chalets are air conditioned, with en-suite bedrooms, and large private viewing decks. Each has a spacious lounge and living area which is great for socializing before retreating to the privacy and comfort of your bedroom. The lodge has been expertly integrated with the surrounding bush to create a natural environment where the guests can enjoy traditional meals in the restaurant or boma, a drink at the bar or a quiet a swim in the pool.

Ukhozi Lodge

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Ukhozi Lodge truly captures the romance and intimacy of Africa. Nestled in the bush you will discover 10 superbly appointed air-conditioned luxury suites crafted from log, each with a private plunge pool and deck offering panoramic views of the valley. The Lodge boasts unique African-style lounges, restaurant and boma with an outdoor pool. Here, guests can unwind in front of warm log fires, enjoy sumptuous cuisine or simply share experiences of the African bush.

River Lodge

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River Lodge is one-of-a-kind. 10 spacious, air conditioned and tastefully appointed thatched suites meander along the banks of the Bushman’s River, offering the most discerning of guests luxurious peace and tranquillity. Inside the Lodge, guests can find a quiet spot in one of the lounges, page through a book in the library, relax at the pool or take in the view from the magnificent deck which overhangs the river. Unique features include excellent river fishing and crabbing.

Nestled on the banks of the Bushman’s River, this Lodge is unique in that it connects a Big-5 game reserve to the sea. Our optional daily boat cruises ferry our guests through the quaint village of Kenton-on-sea to its picturesque and user friendly beaches.

Activities

Game Drives

Guests are taken out twice daily in open safari vehicles, usually in the early morning and late afternoon, although times are dependent on the season and weather. Enjoy the sights and sounds of the African bush, while your skilled ranger provides hidden details and fascinating facts about the surrounding wildlife. Game drives are the center of the Kariega safari experience and guests will be thrilled by close-up encounters with lion, elephant and an abundance of other African wildlife.

Safari Walks

Kariega offers a variety of well marked hiking trails on the predator-free, eastern section of the reserve. This provides our guests with the opportunity of walking safely amongst more than 25 species of game and an abundance of birdlife.

River Cruise

An abundance of bird and animal life makes for exciting game viewing whilst enjoying the peace and tranquility of the dramatic river valley. During one of the morning game drives, guests at Main Lodge, Ukhozi Lodge and the Homestead will enjoy a majestic cruise down the Kariega River on the “Kariega Queen”. At River Lodge, optional daily boat cruises ferry guests down the Bushman’s River, through the quaint village of Kenton-on-Sea and to its picturesque beaches.

Canoeing

Take one of the canoes for a leisurely paddle down either the Kariega or the Bushman’s rivers and watch in blissful silence as the river birds and animals go about their daily business.

Fishing

Guests at Main Lodge and Ukhozi Lodge are welcome to bring their own fishing equipment for fishing in the magnificent Kariega River. River Lodge is equipped with rods and is perfectly situated for the keen fisherman. Here, guests can fish from the Bushman’s River bank or from a canoe or boat.

Getting There

From Cape Town

By Car

You can hire a car and drive the Garden Route to Kariega.  The Garden Route is aptly named as it is one of the most beautiful coastal routes in the world. Famous stops include Gansbaai, Mossel Bay, Wilderness, Knysna  and Jeffreys Bay.  We could tailor make an itinerary to suit your requirements.

From Cape Town or Johannesburg

By Air

Flights are available from Cape Town International or Johannesburg’s O.R Tambo into Port Elizabeth. Flying time is +- 2 hours and rates start from R 1000.00 one way. The reserve is 141 kilometres (1 ½ hours) from the airport and road transfers to the lodge can be arranged.

Rates

From R 2’500.00 per person per night sharing fully inclusive (all meals, selected beverages and activities). Guests enjoy morning and evening game drives / river cruises in our quoted inclusive rates. Hiking trails and canoeing are also free of charge. Additional free activities at River Lodge include boating, fishing and crabbing.