Kwandwe Game Reserve Review

Kwandwe Game Reserve Review

My husband and I were fortunate enough to visit the Kwandwe Private Game Reserve in the Eastern Cape of South Africa. It had been many years since I had been on safari in the Eastern Cape and I was eager to see how the experience had changed. We flew from Cape Town to Port Elizabeth where we picked up our rental car and drove the 2 hours to Kwandwe Private Game Reserve. From the moment we arrived at reception, we experienced the service that this Relais and Chateaux property is famous for. We were met with a welcome drink, a cold towel and fresh homemade cookies accompanied our check-in.

There are 4 properties on this 22,000-hectare reserve:

Kwandwe Ecca Lodge; This is a great child-friendly-lodge. They welcome kids older than six years old (6 – 11 can go on game drives at ranges discretion.) They provide special kids meals, a kids activities room and nannies are also available. There is a nice communal pool area for the kids to play in. This lodge is in a more contemporary style with six individual suites with a plunge pool and outdoor shower. If you have children with you, the lounge area of your suite would be converted to a kids room.

Kwandwe Great Fish River Lodge; This is the more traditional African Safari Lodge, located overlooking the river. This lodge is aimed more at adults (no under 12s). They have nine beautiful private suites with an outdoor shower, private plunge pool and patio area.

Kwandwe Melton Manor; This is a separate 4 bedroom house with a large communal pool and patio area.
It is a very relaxed and beautiful lodge, and you feel very at home here. You can also rent the whole house out just for your family.

Kwandwe Uplands Homestead; This is a 3 bedroom house that can only be rented by a family taking it for sole use.

My experience at Kwandwe was excellent. The staff were exceptional, every single person I met could not have been more helpful. What made an impression on me was how passionate they all were about the Reserve. The staff did go out of their way to give me an enjoyable experience. Unique details like pancakes cooked in the bush, champagne and pre-dinner snacks in the bush, welcome notes in my room and the guides going out of their way to accommodate guests wish to see a certain animal was great.

The food and service were excellent, and my room beautiful. The design and layout of the rooms and public areas are well thought out and flows nicely. The private outdoor areas for each suite and large bathrooms with big windows out into the bush brings the outside into the room.

The game viewing was excellent and as well as all the animals you would expect to see, lion, cheetah, elephant and rhino, I saw some of the less recognised creatures, I saw a porcupine, a caracal, aardwolf and a jackal. The guides are able to get close to the animals, and they also offer the opportunity to go on a walking safari. The guides are well trained and passionate about the wildlife.

The Eastern Cape has become a real alternative to the more famous areas like Kruger. It is very accessible and is much less crowded than other reserves. Kwandwe is a 5-star Private Game Reserve and well worth a visit!

Kwandwe Game Reserve Review;

Kwandwe Game Reserve Review
Kwandwe Game Reserve Review
Kwandwe Game Reserve Review
Kwandwe Game Reserve Review
Kwandwe Game Reserve Review
Kwandwe Game Reserve Review
Kwandwe Game Reserve Review
Travel To The Eastern Cape
Map Of Eastern Cape Safari Lodges And Boutique Hotels
Popular Accommodation Options In The Eastern Cape

  • Amakhala Quatermain's Camp

    Amakhala Quatermain's Camp

    Rates from R3 830.00 per person

    Experience the true spirit of adventure at Quatermain's 1920s Camp in the heart of the Amakhala Game Reserve. This rustic and charming 3-star tented camp offers thoughtfully designed suites for a tranquil stay.

    Immerse yourself in an authentic safari encounter with exceptional game-viewing and thrilling safari drives guided by experienced rangers. Explore the wonders of the African wilderness and get up close to majestic creatures.

  • Amakhala Woodbury Lodge

    Amakhala Woodbury Lodge

    Rates from R5 440.00 per person

    Experience the call of the wild at Amakhala Woodbury Lodge, your gateway to an unforgettable Eastern Cape safari. Nestled within the breathtaking Amakhala Game Reserve, this captivating destination spans 7500 hectares and offers the chance to encounter the "Big 5".

    With its rich history and four-star grading, Woodbury Lodge promises a remarkable journey through this captivating Reserve.

  • Kariega River Lodge

    Kariega River Lodge

    Rates from R9 200.00 per person

    Experience the magic of the Eastern Cape Wilderness at Kariega River Lodge. Nestled along the serene banks of the Bushman's River, this enchanting destination offers tranquillity and luxury.

    Immerse yourself in the captivating beauty of the reserve, embark on thrilling game drives, and indulge in exquisite culinary delights while enjoying panoramic views of the river and wilderness.

  • Kwandwe Melton Manor

    Kwandwe Melton Manor

    Rates from R79 800.00 exclusive use

    Kwandwe family-friendly "Melton Manor" with sweeping views of the river and mountains in three different directions, Melton Manor is a whimsical mix of old and new, a contemporary frontier farmhouse with a modern touch.

    Kwandwe Private Game Reserve offers guests a luxurious "Big 5" safari experience.

  • Amakhala Hillsnek Lodge

    Amakhala Hillsnek Lodge

    Rates from R6 080.00 per person

    Hillsnek Lodge is a secluded and picturesque safari retreat in the Amakhala Game Reserve. Surrounded by stunning natural beauty, this exclusive safari lodge offers a private and intimate experience for guests to immerse themselves in the tranquillity of the African wilderness.

    Guests can create cherished memories that will last a lifetime with luxurious accommodations, attentive service, and various activities, including unforgettable safari adventures.

  • Kwandwe Ecca Lodge

    Kwandwe Ecca Lodge

    Rates from R15 200.00 per person

    Kwandwe Ecca Lodge, nestled amidst lush vegetation, offers a mesmerising panorama of a verdant valley and towering shale cliffs. With its harmonious fusion of architecture and nature, Ecca Lodge provides a truly exclusive experience.

    Delight your palate, unwind in inviting spaces, and explore unique treasures in this epitome of refined luxury; it's the perfect escape for experiencing nature's beauty.

  • Shamwari Riverdene Family Lodge

    Shamwari Riverdene Family Lodge

    Rates from R11 995.00 per person

    Experience the ultimate African safari at Shamwari Riverdene Family Lodge. Nestled in the stunning Shamwari Private Game Reserve, this family-friendly lodge offers luxury accommodations and a range of exciting activities for all ages.

    With warm hospitality and a malaria-free location, Shamwari Riverdene is the perfect base for an unforgettable adventure in the South African wilderness.

  • Shamwari Sindile

    Shamwari Sindile Safari Lodge

    Rates from R16 260.00 per person

    Shamwari Sindile: A luxurious retreat in the heart of the private Shamwari Game Reserve. Immerse yourself in untouched wilderness, surrounded by breathtaking views of the Bushman's River and the vast plains of the Eastern Cape.

    Disconnect from the outside world and reconnect with nature. Embark on thrilling game drives, indulge in spa treatments, and create cherished memories at Sindile Safari Lodge.