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

  • 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.

  • Kariega Main Lodge

    Kariega Main Lodge

    Rates from R7 300.00 per person

    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.

  • 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 Bush Lodge

    Amakhala Bush Lodge

    Rates from R6 750.00 per person

    Experience the majestic wildlife of Amakhala Private Game Reserve at Bush Lodge. Relax on your private deck or take a dip in your private plunge pool while immersing yourself in the beauty of the Eastern Cape and South Africa bushveld.

    Embark on thrilling game drives in open 4x4 safari vehicles and gather around the fire pit in the evening to share stories and witness the stunning sunset over the reserve from this stunning safari lodge.

  • 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.

  • Shamwari Lobengula Lodge

    Shamwari Lobengula Lodge

    Rates from R11 265.00 per person

    Lobengula Lodge in Shamwari Private Game Reserve is an enchanting relaxation retreat surrounded by untouched beauty. Immerse yourself in supreme peace and comfort, experiencing the vibrant spirit of authentic Africa.

    Book the entire lodge for an intimate and personalised stay. Indulge in the captivating sights and sounds of the African wilderness with luxurious accommodations and unforgettable experiences.

  • Amakhala Safari Lodge

    Amakhala Safari Lodge

    Rates from R6 080.00 per person

    Amakhala Safari Lodge, situated in the scenic Amakhala Game Reserve, is a breathtaking sanctuary that offers an immersive and holistic safari experience. With its impeccable design and meticulous attention to detail, this safari lodge provides a perfect haven for rejuvenating your soul and immersing yourself in the magnificent wildlife of the Eastern Cape.

    From the air-conditioned safari huts to the serene surroundings, every aspect of this retreat is crafted to ensure an unforgettable stay.

  • 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.