Luxury Eastern Cape Reserve Safaris

While each reserve has its own charm and attraction, we do have some personal favorites based on our game viewing experience, and the accommodation on offer. Amakhala and Shamwari Game Reserves border one another, and both offer a fantastic safari experience. Kariega Game Reserve is a family-owned and operated game reserve, which is a draw to many people, especially families. There are five lodges within the reserve, and range from breathtaking spacious tented suites, to a private house, perfect for multi-generational families. Although there is no guarantee of sightings on safari, each reserve each homes the Big Five species.

Again, this completely depends on what experience you are looking for and who you are traveling with. The Kruger National Park is much more known in terms of safari destinations, compared to the Eastern Cape Reserves, but that isn’t to say that it’s a better experience. The main differences are that the Kruger National Park is unfenced and is a much larger area, so there is a much higher density of animals here. The Eastern Cape Reserves however are perfect for a first-time safari, or a family safari because of its manageable size and malaria-free landscape.

There are a number of private reserves along the Eastern Cape, each offering a similar safari experience but different accommodation options. Our recommendations of which safari lodges to stay in on the Eastern Cape depends on what sort of budget and accommodation you like. There are more basic choices, with canvassed exteriors and well-appointed en-suite bathrooms. These include lodges like Hillsnek and Bukela Lodge in the Amakhala Reserve. If you are looking for something more luxurious, then somewhere like Long Lee Manor offers more amenities like private verandas, free-standing baths, and swimming pools.