Highlights
- Twice daily game drives in the Kwandwe Private Game Reserve
- Afternoon tea and sundowner drink
- Evening game drive and bush walking options
- Viewing and photographing the "Big Five"
- Family suites, family activities and child friendly meal options
- Private and intimate deck and plunge pool
Information
- Lodge Type: Safari Lodge
- Location: Kwandwe Private Game Reserve, South Africa
- Lodge Size: 6 Luxury Suites
- Recommended Stay: 3-5 nights
Unveil The Magic Of The Eastern Cape Bushveld With A Safari At Kwandwe Ecca Lodge
Nestled within lush vegetation, Kwandwe Ecca Lodge offers a mesmerising panorama of a verdant valley and towering shale cliffs. Its expansive wooden decks provide the perfect vantage point to immerse yourself in the enchanting ambience of the bushveld while enjoying a leisurely lunch or a refreshing sundowner.
The lodge's pagoda-style corrugated iron roofs and walls adorned with wood panelling seamlessly blend into the majestic landscape, creating a harmonious fusion of architecture and nature.
Featuring three double suites and three family suites, each with its own private swimming pool, Kwandwe Ecca Lodge ensures a genuinely exclusive experience. In addition, a rim-flow lap pool beckons at the central guest area, inviting guests to indulge in a refreshing swim.
Delight your palate in the indoor dining room, unwind in the inviting lounge area, or explore the library and shop for unique treasures.
Experience the epitome of refined luxury amidst the breathtaking beauty of Kwandwe Ecca Lodge.
Reserve Information
Kwandwe Private Game Reserve stands as a remarkable tale of conservation and community triumph. Nestled in the picturesque Eastern Cape province of South Africa, this vast 22,000-hectare/54,000-acre sanctuary is not only home to the iconic "Big Five" (rhino, elephant, lion, buffalo, and leopard) but also houses a diverse collection of smaller, more unique species.
From cheetahs, kudus, and springboks to elands, red hartebeests, giraffes, black wildebeests, and gemsboks, the reserve offers a true haven for wildlife enthusiasts and avid birdwatchers alike.
Moreover, the reserve offers captivating encounters with nocturnal creatures like aardwolves, aardvarks, and porcupines, further enhancing the extraordinary wildlife viewing experiences that await at Kwandwe.
Rooms And Suites
With just six thoughtfully designed suites, three of which are dedicated to families, Kwandwe Ecca Lodge offers an intimate, relaxed, and stylish experience.
The decor draws inspiration from the natural textures and vibrant colours of the African bush, creating a harmonious blend that immerses guests in the beauty of their surroundings. Each double suite is meticulously crafted to provide comfort and tranquillity for two adults. In comparison, family suites go the extra mile by accommodating two adults and two children (under 16 years) on day beds in the spacious lounge area.
As you retreat to your sanctuary after an adventurous day, you'll find yourself embraced by the serenity of your private plunge pool and the refreshing touch of nature in the outdoor shower. These exquisite features invite all guests to fully immerse themselves in the untamed beauty and tranquillity of the African wilderness.
Cuisine And Wine
Indulge in the mouthwatering experience of scrumptious farm-to-table dishes meticulously crafted in a contemporary, open-plan kitchen. Immerse yourself in the interactive culinary space, where vibrant palettes of colours and alluring aromas dance in harmony, captivating your senses.
Take a seat in the comfortable chairs of the expansive dining areas, and allow yourself to savour every delectable flavour and tantalising texture. Let the ambience embrace you as you embark on a culinary journey that will leave an everlasting impression.
As you indulge in this remarkable dining experience, prepare to create unforgettable memories.
Lodge Facilities
At Kwandwe Ecca Lodge, the décor and fittings are meticulously designed with funky touches that never cease to surprise and delight. With every step you take, prepare to be captivated by a kaleidoscope of vivid colours and whimsical details. The lodge boasts life-sized animal photographs, exquisitely tinted in psychedelic hues, injecting a playful and fantastical element that sparks the imagination.
As you step out onto the wooden decks of each suite, you are greeted by inviting plunge pools adorned with vibrant mosaic tiles, their solar heating providing a refreshing escape. These stunning swimming pools offer a moment of relaxation and a vibrant splash of colour, perfectly harmonising with the lodge's lively atmosphere.
Safari Activities
Kwandwe Ecca Lodge, all guests can immerse themselves in the pure pleasure of twice daily game drives, where they will have the opportunity to witness the untamed beauty of the wildlife up close. They can also embark on nature walks, guided by experienced trackers, to discover the hidden wonders of the surrounding wilderness. For those seeking an extra thrill, exhilarating big game walking safaris are available, allowing guests to feel the heartbeat of the African bush with every step they take.
Families staying in the luxurious suites will enjoy the dedicated services of a private guide and vehicle, ensuring personalised and unforgettable experiences. To cater to the little ones, the lodge features "The Den", a haven thoughtfully designed to captivate and entertain children with many exciting activities. Meanwhile, a delightful shared lodge pool offers a perfect spot for communal play and refreshing dips, creating family joy and connection. In addition to the captivating wildlife experiences, an array of family-friendly activities awaits, promising endless fun and laughter. From kite building and board games to exhilarating scavenger hunts and much more, there is something for everyone to enjoy and create unforgettable memories together.
Kwandwe Ecca Lodge is suitable for single travellers, couples, honeymooners, and families.
Family Friendly
Kwandwe Ecca Lodge is an exceptional destination for families travelling with children. Situated amidst the breathtaking beauty of nature, this lodge offers a wide array of child-friendly activities and menus to ensure an unforgettable experience for everyone.
The dedicated play centre is thoughtfully designed to keep little ones entertained for hours, with engaging games and delightful surprises around every corner. Additionally, the shared lodge pool provides a perfect spot for communal splashing and relaxation, creating cherished moments of togetherness.
Spa And Wellness
Indulge in a range of exquisite wellness treatments within the exclusivity of your suite. TheraNaka prides itself on utilising the finest natural ingredients sourced from a curated selection of African plant extracts, ensuring organic certification, sustainability, and Fair Trade principles.
TheraNaka products are free from harmful alcohol, artificial fragrances, and colourants. Instead, they embrace the beauty of nature, harnessing the richness of Marula fruit oil, Mongongo nut oil, nourishing Shea butter, luscious Baobab tree oil, soothing African sausage tree ointment, and luxurious Mafura butter, among others.
Every treatment and ritual is meticulously crafted, drawing inspiration from Africa's cultural heritage and designed to honour the profound connection between Mother Earth and all living beings.
In Conclusion
Kwandwe Ecca Lodge stands as a shining beacon of luxury amidst the untamed beauty of the African wilderness. Whether you're seeking an adventurous safari, a tranquil retreat, or a family holiday filled with fun and laughter, this lodge caters to every whim and desire.
With its unmatched comfort, exquisite cuisine, playful décor, and a wide array of activities, Kwandwe Ecca Lodge offers an experience that is as diverse and captivating as the African continent. Indulge in the ultimate luxury of private plunge pools, embark on exciting game drives, or revel in the tranquillity of your natural surroundings.
Each moment spent here is a cherished memory in the making, promising an unforgettable journey that will leave you longing for your return.
Rates from R15 200.00 per person
- Kwandwe Ecca Lodge Rates
- Per person per night sharing (pp)
- Rates are in South African Rands
- *Rates may vary according to season
- Accommodation
- Twice daily game drives
- Nature and Big game walking safaris
- 3 meals daily
- Soft drinks, house wines, local brand spirits, beers
- Laundry
- VAT
- Transfers to & from the reserve’s airstrip
- Community & conservation levy
- In-room massage treatments
- Telephone calls
- Safari shop purchases
- Gratuities
- All items of a personal nature
- Champagne, fine wines, cigars
- Additional specialized safari activities
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.