Samara Game Reserve Review

Samara Game Reserve Review

About three hours drive northwest of Addo Elephant Park (see Tuesday's blog) lies a different country. If Addo enjoys a lush and verdant environment, Samara Game Reserve is the opposite. Its semi-desert environment is more akin to Namibia. Here we are in the middle of the Great Karoo near the historic farming town of Graaff Reinet.

Over a dozen years ago, a far-sighted British investor started buying up farms, lots of them. I don't know whether he has stopped, but at 70,000 acres, this private reserve is an impressive spread. Part of the reason for buying up so much agricultural land and then letting it return to nature was to reintroduce the traditional migration route of many mammals. Up until the end of the nineteenth century, literally, millions of springbok would traverse this area. Indeed, part of the great scheme is to connect Samara and other private reserves with the Camdeboo and Mountain Zebra National Parks to recreate some of that migratory path.

The adjectives of haunting beauty and serenity are apt to describe the character of this experience. You do not come here to see an abundance of wildlife but to relax in a pristine natural environment with a clarity of light and freshness of air few of us encounter in our daily lives. The pleasure here is to sit on the verandah of one of the several old, restored farmhouses and listen to absolutely nothing in this great vastness. You have a choice of accommodation: the old farmhouse Karoo Lodge, the slightly more contemporary Manor House and the far-removed Mountain Retreat. The latter two are exclusive use accommodation, but all share a similar ambience and character.

The game drives here are relaxed affairs dictated by your time and interest. It is worth mentioning that Samara reintroduced cheetah to an area where it had been all but wiped out 125 years ago, and this is an example of the great importance attached to conservation and the environment. You are not restricted to the vehicle with walking and night walks as well as a variety of different scenic drives. One of the most impressive sights is driving up to certain vantage points and the plains of Camdeboo spread out before you. It is an entirely visceral experience where you will perhaps wander into a safari of the mind

There is a subdued luxury to this place. The luxury of time and space in a pristine natural environment. There are all the bells and whistles of course: excellent food, silver service, spa treatments, and special programmes for children. But you will appreciate this magical place more like a retreat and thank the farsighted owners for sharing it with us for generations to come.

Samara Game Reserve
Samara Game Reserve
Samara Game Reserve
Samara Game Reserve
Samara Game Reserve
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.