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

  • Kwandwe Fort House

    Kwandwe Fort House

    Rates from R106 400.00 exclusive use

    Kwandwe Fort House, an exquisite private villa, offers four beautifully appointed en-suite bedrooms, a private pool, an interactive kitchen, and spacious indoor living areas. Enjoy stunning views of the African wilderness from the veranda while the boma and firepit provide exceptional game-viewing opportunities.

    With complete privacy and abundant space, Kwandwe Fort House in the Kwandwe Game Reserve combines the elements of a safari lodge and a luxury home.

  • Shamwari Eagles Crag Lodge

    Shamwari Eagles Crag Lodge

    Rates from R14 875.00 per person

    Discover Eagles Crag, a luxurious and private retreat nestled within the Shamwari Private Game Reserve. Immerse yourself in breathtaking natural scenery and experience unparalleled serenity. With its timeless elegance and seamless blend of glass and stone, this hidden gem offers a profound connection with the natural world.

    Escape the ordinary and indulge in an unforgettable experience that will leave you longing to return.

  • 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.

  • Kariega Homestead

    Kariega Homestead

    Rates from R64 000.00 exclusive use

    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.

  • 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.

  • Kariega Ukhozi Lodge

    Kariega Ukhozi Lodge

    Rates from R9 100.00 per person

    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.

  • 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.

  • 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.