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.

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 Riverdene Family 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.
Amakhala Woodbury Lodge
Kariega Settlers Drift

Rates from R14 600.00 per person

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 Settlers Drift
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 Ukhozi Lodge
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.
Kwandwe Fort House
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 River Lodge
Shamwari Sindile

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.
Shamwari Sindile
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 Homestead

Shamwari Riverdene Family Lodge

Amakhala Woodbury Lodge

Kariega Settlers Drift

Kariega Ukhozi Lodge

Kwandwe Fort House

Kariega River Lodge

Shamwari Sindile

Kariega Homestead