Kariega Game Reserve : Life-Changing Moments

Discover the transformative experiences of our guests in Kariega Game Reserve. Click on the images to explore their authentic stories.

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All Safaris in Kariega Game Reserve

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Kariega Game Reserve

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WHY

Big Five Safari Experience

Kariega is a malaria-free, family-owned game reserve where you can see the Big Five—lion, elephant, rhino, buffalo, and leopard. The reserve provides a more intimate and personalized safari experience compared to larger, more commercial reserves. Beyond the Big Five, Kariega is home to an abundance of wildlife, including giraffes, zebras, hippos, and over 280 bird species. The reserve's diverse landscapes range from grassy plains to dense thickets and riverine forests, providing varied habitats for different species.

Exclusive and Intimate Accommodation and Experiences

With a limited number of guests at any time, Kariega provides an exclusive and uncrowded experience, allowing for more personal interactions with nature and wildlife. The reserve provides luxurious accommodations in several lodges, each offering stunning views and comfort. For a family-friendly lodge or a more exclusive, romantic setting.

Variety of Activities

Kariega offers a wide range of activities, including guided game drives, bush walks, river cruises, and canoeing. The reserve also has a wellness center where you can relax with a massage or other treatments after a day of exploration.

Conservation Efforts

The reserve is committed to conservation and wildlife protection, actively involved in several projects like rhino anti-poaching initiatives and community upliftment programs. By visiting, you support these vital conservation efforts.

WHEN

Winter (May to August)

Winter is the dry season, when the vegetation is less dense and animals congregate around water sources, making wildlife easier to spot. The cooler temperatures (ranging from 7°C to 22°C) are also more comfortable for game drives. This is typically a quieter time with fewer tourists, providing a more intimate experience.

Spring (September to November)

Spring is a fantastic time for birdwatching, as migratory birds return and the bush is alive with activity. Temperatures begin to warm up, and the landscape is lush and green after the winter rains, offering beautiful scenery.

Summer (December to February)

The summer months are the rainy season, leading to lush vegetation and vibrant landscapes. This period can be particularly beautiful for photography. Summer coincides with school holidays, making it a popular time for family vacations. Temperatures can range from 16°C to 30°C, so be prepared for warm days. Many animals give birth during the summer, so you may have the chance to see young animals and their mothers.

Autumn (March to April)

Autumn offers pleasant, mild temperatures and less rainfall, making it an excellent time for game drives and outdoor activities. With fewer tourists compared to the summer months, autumn can provide a quieter and more relaxed experience.

WHERE

Kariega Game Reserve is located in the Eastern Cape province of South Africa. The reserve is situated near the towns of Kenton-on-Sea and Port Alfred, approximately 140 kilometers (87 miles) northeast of Port Elizabeth, along South Africa’s Sunshine Coast.

Where To Stay

Kariega Main Lodge

A family-friendly, safari lodge, spacious log chalets with en-suite bedrooms, some with private pools.

The Main Lodge is ideal for families or groups, offering a relaxed and social atmosphere with amenities like a swimming pool, restaurant, and a wellness center. The chalets provide stunning views of the surrounding bushveld.

   

Kariega Ukhozi Lodge

Romantic, adult-oriented and exclusive suites with private plunge pools.

Designed for couples or those seeking a more intimate experience, Ukhozi Lodge offers seclusion and luxury with its contemporary suites. The lodge features panoramic views, a central lounge, a dining area, and a large pool deck.

   

Kariega River Lodge

Tranquil, a riverside retreat, consists of 10 luxury thatched suites along the Bushman’s River.

Set on the banks of the Bushman’s River, River Lodge offers a serene setting where guests can enjoy river cruises, canoeing, and fishing. The lodge has an open-plan design, a central dining area, and a bar overlooking the river.

Kariega Settlers Drift

Luxury tented camp with 9 spacious tented suites with panoramic views.

Settlers Drift provides a blend of luxury and adventure, with beautifully appointed tented suites that offer stunning views of the Bushman’s River and surrounding valleys. The lodge has a large deck, a pool, a boma, and an elegant dining area.

Customer Testimonials

4.9
out of 5 based on
Dec 12, 2024
Anja Is A Fabulous Travel Consultant
Anja Mayer was extremely knowledgeable, patient, prompt with her responses to questions, and always very helpful. She was also a pleasure to work with. I would highly recommend to anyone that asks that Anja is the right person to contact if they are interested in travelling to South Africa or Botswana.
Lewis Warren
,
US
Dec 12, 2024
Anja did a fabulous job!
Anja was knowledgeble, patient prompt with her responses to questions and always very helpful. In addition, it was a pleasure working with her. I would recommend her to anyone without any reservation.
Lewis Warren
,
US
Dec 10, 2024
Mel du Toit was the perfect person to…
Mel du Toit was the perfect person to arrange and organize our trip!! She was on the ball, made sure everything was in place and travel arrangements secured! I highly recommend her!!
JUDITH ANN
,
US
Dec 9, 2024
Great support from Shann
Shann made the booking experience seamless - provided very helpful information to ensure we fully understood what the experience would be like and made sure we felt safe with experiences we have booked.
SUE And Bryson STEIN
,
AU
Dec 9, 2024
Quick & efficient
Very fast response, polite - impressive
Eduardo Rocha
,
BR
Dec 7, 2024
Went through Newmarket travel and Hays…
Went through Newmarket travel and Hays travel ..information about flight changes hard to get..but on arrival the holiday was taken over Safari.com..amazing ..experience everything was fine tuned and the staff ..guides drivers fabulous and friendly ..lots of knowledge..lots of fun and the surprises they did was so lovely ...loved every minute ..Paris our guide was amazing..10/10 and Eric driver ..the waiters and waitress every and everyone in the hotels .smiling and friendly..Best holiday of my life
Gillian Dodsworth
,
GB
Dec 7, 2024
Anja at Safari.com was a great partner to work with!
Working with Anja at Safari.com was great. She was able to work some magic and got us a few nights at the safari lodge we really wanted, Ngoma. Unfortunately, our flight from the USA to South Africa was canceled and we were rebooked a day later but Anja was great about making sure our lodge and the transports knew about the change in plans and made sure we got to our trip as soon as we could. She was a great partner to have and communicated quickly whenever we reached out. I would highly recommend using her when planning a trip to Africa!
Joanna
,
US
Dec 4, 2024
Prompt & knowledgeable
Prompt & knowledgeable
Scott Millar
,
ZA
Dec 4, 2024
Great service from Denise at Safari.com
Denise from Safari.com was extremely helpful. She responded promptly, provided good advice on safari lodgings options and worked up a couple of itinerary options to suit our budget. Denise also organised flights and transfers very quickly so that we could finalize our booking in a short time. Much appreciated.
Noelene Hosking
,
AU
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