Wildlife and game reserves near Cape Town

Cape Town Game Reserves

A Luxurious Safari Experience With A Difference Awaits At These Game Reserves Near Cape Town

A unique and luxurious experience for safari lovers looking for a wildlife experience close to Cape Town. These private game reserve options, large and small, are for those who are limited on time and are only staying within the Western Cape region of South Africa, a collection of wildlife and game reserves that offer up a fantastic wildlife conservation experience all within a few hours' drive northwest and west of Cape Town.

From the desert plains of the Tankwa Karoo Nation Park to the lush wetlands of the De Hoop Nature Reserve all the way through to the Sanbona Wildlife Reserve and her "Big 5" safaris near Cape Town, there is something for everyone, this area of South Africa for safari might just surprise all that visit.

With magnificent Karoo landscapes as the backdrop, these game reserves near Cape Town offer guests the chance to spot the "Big 5" (elephants, rhinos, lions, Cape buffalo and leopards) as well as plains game, including springbok, giraffe, riverine rabbit, red hartebeest, wildebeest zebra, and hartebeests to name just a few. Not all game reserves offer the "Big Five"; a few will offer up at least three of them, and some even offer whale watching.

Birdlife in these areas is particularly interesting to birders as quite a few species are found nowhere else on the planet, a fantastic destination for licking off lists.

All private game reserves near Cape Town offer a malaria-free experience, making them the perfect destinations for families, those that are pregnant and those that simply do not want to be anywhere near female Anopheles mosquitos.

Accommodation is varied and luxurious, with options to suit all budgets and styles. Whether you are looking for a small and intimate luxury lodge or a more rustic tented camp with private views out over the Surrounding Karoo, there is something to suit everyone in our below portfolio of game reserves near Cape Town.

If you are looking for a "Big 5", a Karoo experience or safaris near cape town all within an easy drive of the Cape Peninsula, look no further than our selection of only the best options below.

With its beautiful landscapes, unique flora and exceptional wildlife sightings, the wildlife and game reserves will undoubtedly leave one with lasting memories of their time spent in this magnificent part of South Africa. The portfolio below is not suited to a day trip but more for a least one night in the reserves themselves.

Private Wildlife And Game Reserves Close To Cape Town

  • Sanbona Tilney Manor

    Rates from R10 100.00 per person

    Sanbona Tilney Manor is the perfect getaway destination for couples, romantics, honeymooners or a family group looking to escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

    Nestled far away from humanity in a remote corner of the 54,000-ha Sanbona Game Reserve, Tilney Manor offers exclusive accommodation for no more than twelve guests at any one time.

    "Big 5" game drives in the Great Karoo region, all within a few hour's drive of Cape Town.

    With its tranquil setting, exquisite views and world-class amenities, Sanbona Tilney Manor is an ideal place to relax and enjoy quality time with your special someone.

  • Bartholomeus Klip Farmhouse

    Rates from R5 715.00 per person

    Nestled in the rolling hills of South Africa's Western Cape, Bartholomeus Klip Farmhouse, not more than 90 minutes from Cape Town, is a serene and one-of-a-kind destination for travellers seeking an escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

    With only five rooms, guests will find peace and relaxation on this private estate nestled between a working wheat and sheep farm and a private nature reserve surrounded by stunning mountain views.

    Attractions include horseback riding, game viewing, bird watching, or simply enjoying breathtaking sunsets over dinner; Bartholomeus Klip Farmhouse is genuinely something special.

  • Bushmans Kloof Lodge

    Rates from R9 045.00 per person

    Escape to Bushmans Kloof Lodge and experience the luxury of a Relais & Chateaux lodge in an incredible mountainous landscape surrounded by fynbos in every direction.

    Located 270 kilometres or two and a half hours drive from Cape Town, this luxurious retreat offers guests over 130 Bushman rock art sites to explore, nature drives, walking trails, and so much more.

    In addition to its luxurious amenities, Bushmans Kloof Lodge is also committed to conservation and sustainability. The reserve is home to over 130 species of birds and 35 species of mammals, including rare and endangered species such as the Cape mountain zebra and the riverine rabbit.

  • Bushmans Kloof Koro Lodge

    Rates from R49 190.00 per night

    Bushmans Kloof Koro Lodge is a luxurious villa getaway nestled in the stunning Cederberg Mountains of the Western Cape of South Africa—the perfect safari lodge and destination for those looking for the utmost in privacy and luxury.

    With awe-inspiring views of the Cederberg Mountains and a stunning array of outdoor activities, one will be left with no doubt that Koro Lodge is one of the most exquisite options in South Africa.

    Sleeping a maximum of six people, Koro is perfect for families or a small group of close friends.

    An unforgettable Cape Town getaway with modern amenities and warm hospitality, all set against the backdrop of jaw-dropping natural scenery.

  • Grootbos Villa

    Rates from R128 800.00 per night

    Grootbos Villa 1 and Villa 2 offer a unique and luxurious experience for the discerning traveller looking for an elegant and private getaway not far from Cape Town.

    Perfect for families or a small group of close friends, these two villas are positioned in a secluded and private setting. The unsurpassed quality of service complements this luxurious home-away-from-home atmosphere.

    With your own personal chef, butler and nature guide to attend to your every need, you can enjoy your safari at your own pace, surrounded by some of the Western Cape's most beautiful scenery.

  • Grootbos Forest Lodge

    Rates from R12 500.00 per person

    Grootbos Forest Lodge is a tranquil retreat nestled in the heart of the Grootbos Game Reserve. Surrounded by a 100-year-old milkwood forest and breathtaking views out over the reserve, the Atlantic Ocean and Walker Bay.

    Whether you are looking for an escape from the city life of Cape Town or just a romantic weekend away with your special someone, Forest Lodge is the perfect getaway.

    A luxurious lodge that offers a tranquil and intimate atmosphere to guests seeking an escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

  • Grootbos Garden Lodge

    Rates from R12 250.00 per person

    Grootbos Garden Lodge is a luxurious and eco-friendly lodge located in the Grootbos Game Reserve in the Western Cape Province with 2.5 hours from Cape Town.

    Garden Lodge offers visitors an exclusive, serene escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life surrounded by exceptional beauty, fynbos and vistas.

    Lodge facilities include a swimming pool, spa treatments, nature drives and whale spotting in Walker Bay, with many more options available.

    Perfect for families, couples, small groups of friends and honeymooners alike.

  • Sanbona Gondwana Family Lodge

    Rates from R10 110.00 per person

    Sanbona Gondwana Family Lodge is a unique wildlife experience in the breathtaking and private "Big 5" Sanbona Game Reserve, only three hours from Cape Town.

    Gondwana Family Lodge offers twelve beautifully appointed safari suites designed for families, friends and small groups.

    Whether you are looking for an escape with your family or want to explore the beauty of the Karoo wilderness, the Sanbona wildlife Reserve provides everything you will need for a memorable safari!

  • Sanbona Dwyka Tented Lodge

    Rates from R10 665.00 per person

    Experience the ultimate luxury tented safari suite experience with a few nights at Sanbona Dwyka Tented Lodge.

    Nestled within the breathtakingly beautiful "Big 5" "Sanbona Game Reserve, this unique accommodation offers nine large tented suites that provide all the comforts that one would expect and more when on safari.

    Enjoy breathtaking views from each suite's private balcony, indulge in exquisite cuisine prepared by experienced chefs, and go on safari game drives to explore the incredible wildlife of the surrounding Karoo, all of this within a few hours drive of Cape Town.

Map of Game Reserves Close To Cape Town
Cape Town Travel Topics

  • Cape Town Sightseeing Bus

    Explore the stunning city of Cape Town in a budget-friendly and time-efficient way - The City Sightseer Bus.

    This double-decker 'topless' red bus offers travellers several routes to take in all the attractions, including Blue Route from the City to Hout Bay, Red Route for Table Mountain Cable Car and Purple Route through Constantia Vineyards.

    With the guided tour commentated in 15 different languages, this is a great day out for both kids and adults alike!

  • Muizenberg Beach Cape Town

    Muizenberg Beach in Cape Town, South Africa, is a beautiful seaside town that has experienced both decline and resurgence.

    From the late 19th century until the 1960s, it was one of the most popular resort areas in South Africa.

    In recent years, however, Muizenberg has undergone a transformation as law-abiding citizens have reclaimed the area and invested heavily in its revitalization.

  • Constantia Valley Wine Route

    The Constantia Valley Wine Route is a stunning destination for wine lovers in South Africa. It offers an array of estates, each with its own special selection of wines and unique experiences to enjoy.

    From the upgraded wine-tasting venue at Uitkyk Estate to Klein Constantia's "Beyond Restaurant", there are plenty of opportunities to sample some excellent local vintages. For those looking for something special, Groot Constantia is home to Cape Ruby port and Eagles Nest has partnered with the Western Cape Raptor Research Programme.

  • Constantia Winelands, What to Do?

    Escape from the hustle of Cape Town and immerse yourself in South Africa's famous wine culture by visiting Constantia Valley - only a quick journey away!

    For centuries, Constantia Valley has been the home of some of South Africa's oldest and most renowned vineyards and wine farms.

    Among these renowned wineries are Groot Constantia, Klein Constantia, Constantia Uitsig and Buitenverwachting – each with its own unparalleled atmosphere and exquisite wines.

  • 10 best things about Cape Town

    Cape Town, South Africa is a vibrant and beautiful city that offers something for everyone.

    From its stunning beaches to its majestic Table Mountain, from its world-famous Constantia vineyards to the stunning Kirstenbosch Garden, Robben Island and a great number of 5-star restaurants on offer - Cape Town truly is an unforgettable destination.

    Here are 10 of the best things about this incredible city that make it such a fantastic place to visit or live in.

  • Horse Riding in Cape Town

    Experience an unforgettable adventure and explore the beauty of Cape Town by horseback.

    Just a short drive from the centre of town, you will find Noordhoek – a sleepy community known for its stunning beach that stretches for over eight kilometres and is bordered by wetlands, Chapmans Peak and Kommetjie lighthouse.

    Sleepy Hollow Horse Riding offers outrides on this beach where you can ride through dunes, trot across pools of water and even visit the skeletal remains of an old steamship wreck!

  • Climbing Table Mountain

    Table Mountain is one of the most iconic landmarks in Cape Town, and with the Aerial Cableway closed for a few weeks, now is the perfect time to explore its many paths.

    A hike up Skeleton Gorge provides an opportunity to experience nature's beauty while gathering breathtaking views along the way.

    With record numbers of visitors coming to Cape Town due to its designation as World Design Capital 2014, and inclusion as one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World, it is no wonder why this city has been gaining so much attention.

  • Shark Cage Diving Cape Town

    Experience the majesty of one of nature's most magnificent creatures with shark cage diving in Cape Town. With "Shark Diving", you can get up close and personal with great white sharks as they swim around the boat looking for bait.

    Whether you want to dive yourself or just observe from the deck, this thrilling activity offers a unique opportunity to appreciate these powerful animals in their natural habitat.

    You will also learn more about how humans are affecting their environment and why conservation efforts are essential for protecting them.