Kwandwe Game Reserve Review
Discover the Unparalleled Luxury and Breathtaking Wildlife Encounters at Kwandwe Private Game Reserve in South Africa’s Eastern Cape
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 by Uyaphi.com
Travel To The Eastern Cape Now
Map of Lodges in and around The Eastern Cape
Lodges And Camps In The Eastern Cape
The Elephant House
Experience the magic of The Elephant House Guesthouse, nestled in the picturesque Sundays River Valley. This charming retreat offers a timeless elegance with its colonial-style lodge and enchanting atmosphere. Conveniently located near the Addo Elephant National Park, The Elephant House, a hidden gem, provides a sanctuary of tranquillity to reconnect with nature and yourself.
Kariega River Lodge
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.
Kariega Ukhozi Lodge
Experience the wild luxury of Kariega Ukhozi Lodge, a secluded Eastern Cape getaway where romance and adventure meet. Perched high on a hill, this exclusive safari destination offers stunning panoramic views of the Kariega Game Reserve. Embark on thrilling game drives, indulge in gourmet dining, and immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the Eastern Cape. Escape into the heart of the wild at Ukhozi Lodge.
Kariega Main Lodge
Located on a scenic hilltop on the eastern side of Kariega Reserve, Kariega Main Lodge offers a serene and welcoming environment to immerse yourself in the beauty of the African bush. With stunning views, harmonious blending with nature, abundant birdlife, and renowned "Big Five" safaris, this malaria-free sanctuary promises an unforgettable adventure for families and nature enthusiasts.
Kariega Settlers Drift
Experience Settlers Drift, a luxurious 5-star safari lodge nestled in the heart of the Kariega Game Reserve. With elegantly spacious tented suites and breathtaking panoramic views, this exclusive haven offers the ultimate blend of luxury and tranquillity. Escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and immerse yourself in the untamed beauty of Africa's wildlife. Surrender to the allure of the African wilderness and let nature's captivating beauty envelop your senses at Kariega Settlers Drift.
Kariega Homestead
Experience unbeatable privacy, exceptional service, and unforgettable wildlife encounters at Kariega Homestead. This luxurious exclusive-use lodge offers ultimate comfort, convenience, and tranquillity with dedicated hosts, knowledgeable game rangers, and skilled cooks. Enjoy an intimate and personalized experience in this idyllic haven of luxury and natural beauty, perfect for small groups or families.
Sibuya Forest Camp
Experience authentic safari adventures and luxurious tented suites at Sibuya Forest Camp. Nestled along the scenic Kariega River Estuary, this hidden gem offers a tranquil retreat in the lush indigenous bush. Immerse yourself in the sub-tropical paradise, surrounded by abundant wildlife, from graceful impala to majestic elephants. Embark on unforgettable game-viewing experiences and create cherished memories that will last a lifetime.
Sibuya Bush Lodge
Experience the ultimate safari getaway at Sibuya Bush Lodge, nestled in a picturesque valley within the Malaria-Free Sibuya Game Reserve. Immerse yourself in this enchanting Lodge's natural beauty, luxury, and exceptional wildlife encounters. Discover the magic of Sibuya Bush Lodge and create cherished memories that will last a lifetime.