Highlights
- Safari Lodge, Amakhala Private Game Reserve
- Late afternoon and early evening game drives
- Boat cruise along the Bushman's River
- Excursions to neighbouring Addo National Elephant Park
- Tours to the Born Free Foundation
- Bird and wildlife photography
- Perfect Eastern Cape African safari experience
- "Big 5" game drives and safaris
Information
- Lodge Type: Safari Lodge
- Location: Amakhala Private Game Reserve, South Africa
- Lodge Size: 11 Safari Rooms
- Recommended Stay: 3-5 nights
The Ultimate Safari At Amakhala Safari Lodge - Your Gateway To The Eastern Cape's Majestic Wildlife
Safari Lodge is nestled in a picturesque valley of indigenous bushveld at the northern boundary of the expansive 7500-hectare Amakhala Game Reserve. Surrounded by the natural beauty of the Shamwari Game Reserve and Addo Elephant National Park, this lodge enjoys an enviable location that promises the ultimate wildlife viewing experience South Africa has to offer.
The lodge's design, inspired by the magnificent landscape and elements of African tribal art, is a testament to the vision of its owners and artists, Mike and Justine Weeks. Every detail has been carefully crafted to create a genuinely immersive and holistic safari experience.
Step into this intimate thatched lodge and be greeted by the unique charm of its air-conditioned safari huts. Combining the comforts of a luxury 5-star lodge with the authentic ambience of an African retreat, Amakhala Safari Lodge offers a tranquil sanctuary where you can rejuvenate your soul and immerse yourself in the symphony of nature's sounds.
Reserve Information
Situated in South Africa's Eastern Cape province, the Amakhala Game Reserve is a privately owned wildlife sanctuary that presents visitors with an extraordinary opportunity to witness the majestic "Big Five" - lion, elephant, rhino, buffalo, and leopard. But that's not all! The Amakhala also boasts a rich variety of wildlife, including cheetah, giraffe, zebra, wildebeest, and an assortment of antelope species.
What sets this place apart is its diverse collection of South Africa's seven biomes, ranging from lush bushveld to expansive savannah. For those seeking a change of pace, a leisurely boat cruise along the Bushman's River offers a serene retreat. The Amakhala Game Reserve is truly a remarkable gem within the country, and it's worth noting that it shares its border with the Shamwari Game Reserve, only separated by the N2, South Africa's national road.
Rooms And Suites
Amakhala Safari Lodge, nestled in the heart of the wilderness, offers a truly immersive experience for its guests. With a capacity to accommodate up to 22 people, this enchanting retreat boasts 11 meticulously designed thatched suites. In addition to the four original safari huts, the lodge now features two new luxurious suites thoughtfully adorned with private plunge pools and separate lounge areas.
Indulge in the ultimate relaxation as you soak away the heat in a sumptuous double bath, allowing the sights and sounds of nature to envelop you in tranquillity. Alternatively, refresh yourself under the open sky with a double outdoor shower, washing away the dust of your adventures.
The spacious beds, elegantly draped with delicate mosquito nets, provide a sanctuary of comfort and serenity. To enhance your romantic getaway, a bottle of sparkling wine awaits you on ice, perfectly paired with a double bath filled with beautifully scented bubbles, creating an ambience that will captivate honeymooners and those with a romantic spirit.
Cuisine And Wine
Amakhala Safari Lodge takes you on a culinary odyssey celebrating South Africa's rich heritage. A talented resident chef uses only the freshest local ingredients to create a symphony of flavours that dance on your palate. Dishes are a loving tribute to traditional African cuisine, reinvented with an innovative twist.
This gastronomic journey is paired with a handpicked selection of award-winning South African wines chosen to complement every mouthful. The lodge's extensive wine cellar boasts a variety of wines from renowned local vineyards, ensuring a unique tasting experience under the starlit African sky. Whether you prefer a bold red or a crisp white, the wine selection caters to the tastes of every oenophile.
Indulge yourself in this epicurean adventure and end your perfect day at Amakhala with a memorable dining experience.
Lodge Facilities
Immerse yourself in the tranquil ambience of this charming thatched lodge, boasting unique safari suites and signature stone-capped rooftops. Indulge in the comforts of a luxurious retreat as you rejuvenate your soul and reconnect with nature's symphony.
From the safari suites and lounge area, delight in the mesmerizing view of the waterhole, where playful monkeys frolic and antelope and zebra quench their thirst.
Experience pure bliss with the spa and wellness area, take a refreshing dip in the swimming pool and stay connected with complimentary Wi-Fi throughout your stay.
Safari Activities
Our daily rates cover morning and afternoon game drives led by experienced guides in 4x4 safari vehicles. At the Amakhala Game Reserve, you can enjoy other activities such as family safaris, boat safaris, night drives, star gazing, birding, bush walks, archery, fishing, and visiting nearby historical sites. Immerse yourself in the wonders of the Amakhala Private Game Reserve when at Amakhala Safari Lodge and make the most of your stay with these exciting options.
In Conclusion
Amakhala Safari Lodge offers an unparalleled gateway to the captivating magic of the African wilderness. Combining comfort, luxury, and adventure, the lodge provides an extraordinary blend of experiences that will enrich your journey.
From exhilarating game drives to tranquil boat cruises, from gourmet cuisine to serene spa treatments, every moment at Amakhala is meticulously crafted to delight your senses and deepen your connection with the natural world.
Whether you are seeking a romantic escape or a thrilling family adventure, immerse yourself in the unique charm of Amakhala Safari Lodge - your intimate retreat in the heart of the Eastern Cape's majestic wildlife.
Rates from R6 080.00 per person
- Amakhala Safari Lodge Rates
- Per person per night sharing (pp)
- Rates are in South African Rands
- *Rates may vary according to season
- Accommodation
- Meals
- Selected house beverages
- 2 game drive activities
- Premium branded beverages
- Transfers
- Telephone calls
- Laundry
- Items of personal nature
- Insurance
Kwandwe Game Reserve Review
My husband and I were fortunate enough to visit the Kwandwe Private Game Reserve in the Eastern Cape of South Africa. It had been many years since I had been on safari in the Eastern Cape and I was eager to see how the experience had changed.
We flew from Cape Town to Port Elizabeth where we picked up our rental car and drove the 2 hours to Kwandwe Private Game Reserve. From the moment we arrived at the reception, we experienced the service that this Relais and Chateaux property is famous for.
We were met with a welcome drink, a cold towel and fresh homemade cookies accompanied by our check-in.
Addo Elephant Back Safari
I have been travelling in Africa for over three decades. In that time, I have been on countless safaris; by Land Rover, on foot, by canoe and horseback, up and down mountains and valleys.
The sense of wonder and appreciation of natural beauty has never left me.
There are, of course, individual animals which I prefer above all others. Some are large, very large and some small but all, for some reason or other, have endeared themselves towards me. I will start with the very large.
Eastern Cape Travel Bucket List
Embark on an unforgettable journey through South Africa's Eastern Cape. Discover diverse landscapes, rich culture, and thrilling adventures. From wild coastlines to wildlife encounters, explore hidden gems and must-visit attractions.
Create your own Eastern Cape travel bucket list and make memories to last a lifetime.
Pack your bags and let’s explore the Eastern Cape’s hidden gems and must-visit attractions that promise lifelong memories - your very own Eastern Cape travel bucket list.
Samara Game Reserve Review
About three hours' drive northwest of Addo Elephant National Park (see Tuesday's blog) lies a different country.
If the Addo Elephant National Park enjoys a lush and verdant environment, Samara Game Reserve (close to Camdeboo National Park) is the opposite. Its semi-desert environment is more akin to Namibia.
Yet here we are in the middle of the Great Karoo near the historic farming town of Graaff Reinet.
Death of a Cheetah
When you live in Africa, love the smell of nature and its strong call, and perhaps even more importantly, understand the natural cycles; you see the death of wildlife as part of the natural order.
The strong conquer the weak, and the old give space to the young.
When you look at a magnificent animal and predator die in an area which is desperately (and successfully) trying to rehabilitate natural corridors of flora and fauna over a previously devastated land, no one would think less of you for shedding a tear.