Traversing over the 9000 hectares of supreme African bushveld, the Karongwe Reserve is home to the Big Five (Lion, Leopard, Buffalo, Rhino and Elephant) as well as a wealth of other creatures.
At Karongwe River Lodge, a delightful dining experience awaits you. Dining under the stars has never been as romantic as when you enjoy our Pan-African cuisine in a rustic outdoor boma or, on alternate evenings, in the beautifully appointed dining room. To complement your meal, choose from our extensive selection of top South African and imported beers and wines, alongside a variety of spirits and soft drinks.
Spend the afternoon relaxing beside the pool or watching the game from your private deck before being whisked away on a late-afternoon safari in an open game drive vehicle. The enchanting view over the Makhutsi River is a natural treasure, offering insight into the secret life of the river. The spacious lounge area leading onto a vast deck provides endless opportunities to view elephants as well as grazing antelope.
Settle in at your leisure in one of our 11 spacious and air-conditioned suites, each featuring en-suite bathrooms. River Lodge offers guests a choice of five luxury suites, two family suites, and two executive suites, with the two presidential suites enjoying their own private plunge pools.
Traversing over 9,000 hectares of supreme African bushveld, the Karongwe Reserve is home to the Big Five (lion, leopard, buffalo, rhino, and elephant) as well as a wealth of other incredible creatures. Our open vehicle game drives are perfect for wildlife viewing, and you can enjoy a sundowner as the sun sets over the magnificent Drakensberg Mountains.
The spectacular game viewing provides perfect photographic opportunities. Take in the breathtaking views of the Lowveld from a “kopje” surrounded by lush vegetation, a huge variety of trees, and over 365 different bird species. Game drives are conducted by our qualified game rangers and Shangaan trackers, who will share their deep knowledge of the African bush, including an opportunity to view cheetahs on foot.
Time is luxury. We streamline your choices for the perfect safari.
✅ Free travel insurance before 31 Jul 2025
✅ An expert will reach out to you within 24 hours
✅ SAFARI.COM voted Africa's Leading Safari Company in the World Travel Awards 2024 + 2025
✅ Same price as booking direct, with expert care included
✅ With you before, during and after your safari
✅ We handle it all. Flights, transfers, lodging & activities
June 26, 2025
Very smooth planning and booking!
Leigh-Ann Croeser has been very helpful with the entire planning and booking process, it has all gone very smoothly! Thanks Leigh-Ann.
June 18, 2025
The Best Trip
My Trip was the Best the Hotels were at the Top of the List, first Class all the Way!! Its was all planned By Leigh Ann From Safari.com she was the Best to Work with I recommend her!!
June 8, 2025
Leigh-Ann Croeser was fantastic to deal…
Leigh-Ann Croeser was fantastic to deal with. She was very prompt in returning my emails. She gave very useful advice and recommendations. She made the booking with Shalati go smoothly.