Lodge
Samara Karoo Reserve
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Samara Karoo Reserve
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Samara Karoo Reserve
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About the lodge
An overview of Samara Karoo Reserve.
Samara Karoo Reserve in the Eastern Cape is a magnificent destination known for its breathtaking landscapes and rich biodiversity. Situated in the heart of the Great Karoo, the reserve offers a unique blend of rugged mountains, vast plains, and a diversity of flora and fauna. Closed Annually: 1 Jun - 31 August
Highlights
- Exclusivity and Privacy
- Family-Friendly Activities
- Rich in Cultural History
- Exceptional Stargazing Destination
- Close Encounters with Wildlife
- Luxurious Accommodation
- Magical Sleep-Out Experience
You Should Know
Child Policy
Karoo Lodge
Karoo Lodge welcomes guests of all ages. However, for those under 8 years old, scheduled game drives with other guests are not an option. Instead, families with younger children can enjoy shorter, mid-morning "bumble" drives, which are arranged once the regular game drives have concluded. Additionally, a children's program and access to the Cubs' Den are available for kids of all ages. For families desiring a more personalized experience, a private vehicle can be arranged in advance, subject to availability and at an additional cost.
The Manor
At The Manor, families with children of any age are welcome to stay when the entire villa is booked exclusively. In this case, a personalized program of activities will be tailored for you by your private guide.
If you book a Manor Suite on a shared-use basis, children under the age of 12 are not allowed to stay. Additionally, the policy does not allow for three or more adults to share a single room.
Plains Camp
Due to the unique setup of Plains Camp as an unfenced, explorer-style camp concentrating on bush walks and wildlife tracking in an area with the Big Five, it is not suitable for children under 16 years of age. Additionally, the tents at Plains Camp cannot accommodate more than two adults, as sharing with three or more adults is not permitted.
The Details
Samara Karoo Reserve offers three distinct accommodation types, each offering a unique experience in the heart of the South African wilderness.
Karoo Lodge
Set amidst a natural mountain amphitheater, this beautifully restored farmstead merges seamlessly with the serene, wild landscape. Karoo Lodge offers 10 suites capable of accommodating up to 24 guests. It's an ideal choice for those seeking a tranquil and authentic Karoo experience.
Closed during the high season (1 November - 14 December).
The Manor
As a striking oasis in the semi-desert terrain of the Karoo, The Manor presents an elegant villa that combines contemporary Karoo style with luxury. It comprises 4 suites, accommodating up to 8 guests, and requires a minimum stay of two nights. The Manor is perfect for guests looking for an exclusive and upscale retreat in the wilderness.
Plains Camp
In search of adventure closer to nature? Plains Camp offers an explorer-style experience reminiscent of mobile safaris, where 'wildness as luxury' is the theme. This off-grid safari camp focuses on walking safaris and reconnecting with nature. It offers 4 tented suites for up to 8 guests, also with a minimum stay of two nights. Plains Camp is ideal for guests eager to immerse themselves in the raw beauty of the Karoo while enjoying elegant simplicity.
Price Includes
Access to 67,000 acres of exclusive born-again wilderness; luxury en-suite accommodation as specified; twice daily game drives with an experienced guide and tracker; Spekboom planting experience; guided bush walks and wildlife tracking; and transfers between lodges and Samara's airstrip.
The same as booking direct
Rates and pricing.
Per person sharing, per night, in ZAR. Final pricing depends on dates, room category and party size.
Valid until 31 Dec 2026
Why book through us
You pay the lodge's rate, never a markup. What you get on top is a specialist who knows Samara Karoo Reserve personally, looks after every detail of the trip, and stays reachable on WhatsApp from the moment you enquire to the day you come home.
By season
Green season
1 Mar 2026 – 31 May 2026
All-Inclusive - All meals including picnics, all beverages, 1 game drive daily, exciting activities, internal round-trip transfer from Samara airstrip
Special offer
ZAR 11,800
Normally ZAR 17,800
Peak / migration
1 Sept 2026 – 31 Dec 2026
All-Inclusive - All meals including picnics, all beverages, 1 game drive daily, exciting activities, internal round-trip transfer from Samara airstrip
Special offer
ZAR 11,800
Normally ZAR 17,800
Rates are per person sharing, per night. A single supplement may apply for solo travellers. We offer a price match guarantee, just ask your safari specialist.
Exclusive offer
Already reflected in the rates above.
The reduced rates shown in the table apply for the periods listed. Here is what is running and why.
Stay & Pay
Stay 3, Pay 2 at Plains Camp: Guests staying for 3 nights at Plains Camp enjoy one complimentary night. | Stay 4 Nights Including Flights & Transfers: Guests staying for 4 nights at Samara enjoy two complimentary flights on a commercial airline between Cape Town or Johannesburg and Port Elizabeth (now Gqeberha) and a complimentary round-trip road transfer from Port Elizabeth Airport to Samara. | Stay 7, Pay 6 Including Flights & Transfers: Guests staying for 7 nights at Samara enjoy one complimentary night and two complimentary flights on a commercial airline between Cape Town or Johannesburg and Port Elizabeth (now Gqeberha) and a complimentary round-trip road transfer from Port Elizabeth Airport to Samara
Speak to a safari specialist
Plan Your Dream Safari.
From your first enquiry to the day you come home, one named safari specialist looks after every detail. A safari specialist will be in touch within as little as 15 minutes during working hours.
Ready when you are
Let's design your stay.
Your specialist will be in touch within as little as 15 minutes during working hours with availability, exact pricing, and suggestions for what to combine it with.