Samara Game Reserve Review
Experience the Haunting Beauty, Conservation Legacy, and Serene Luxury of Samara Game Reserve in the Vast Great Karoo
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 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.