Highlights
- Exclusive-use Kwandwe Uplands House
- Perfect for families and small groups of friends
- Game drives in the morning, afternoon and evening
- "Big 5" safari with private guide and safari vehicle
- Dining room and outdoor boma area
- Air conditioning throughout Uplands Homestead
Information
- Lodge Type: Exclusive-Use Safari Villa
- Location: Kwandwe Private Game Reserve, South Africa
- Lodge Size: 3 Luxury Suites
- Recommended Stay: 3-5 nights
Experience the Pinnacle of Luxury Amidst Wild Africa at Kwandwe Uplands House
Nestled amidst the rugged hills of Kwandwe Private Game Reserve, Kwandwe Uplands House offers a captivating blend of refinement and untamed wilderness. The grandeur of the rolling lawns and the majestic residence that graces the valley create a picturesque setting.
Step inside and be enchanted by the elegant interiors adorned with damask linens, antique silver, and delicate porcelain. These exquisite touches serve as a perfect contrast to the untamed beauty of the surrounding bush and its vibrant wildlife. The high ceilings, reminiscent of the spaciousness of the Cape, and the wooden floors exude the comforting warmth of Africa.
Each suite boasts a private veranda that opens to the slopes adorned with hundreds of aloes, inviting you to soak in the breathtaking views.
Reserve Information
Kwandwe Private Game Reserve is a renowned triumph in conservation and community involvement. Nestled in South Africa's picturesque Eastern Cape province, this vast expanse of 22,000 hectares/54,000 acres boasts pristine wilderness. It serves as a sanctuary for the iconic "Big Five" alongside many other captivating species.
Within this game-rich terrain, one can marvel at the regal presence of black and white rhinos, elephants, lions, buffalos, and leopards while also encountering an astonishing array of predators and general wildlife, including cheetahs, kudus, springboks, elands, red hartebeests, giraffes, black wildebeests, and gemsboks.
The Kwandwe Reserve is a true haven for avid birdwatchers, with abundant avian treasures such as the majestic Fish Eagle and the endangered Blue Crane. Moreover, the Reserve offers exceptional opportunities for nocturnal viewing, where one might catch sight of fascinating creatures like the aardwolf, aardvark, and porcupine.
Rooms And Suites
Only three suites at Kwandwe Uplands House are available, each with its own private bathrooms, provide a cosy sanctuary for moments of personal indulgence. Combining contemporary comforts with traditional accents, this intimate haven offers a seamless blend of modernity and nostalgia.
Antique mirrors and claw-foot tubs grace the bathrooms, while yellowwood chests and wardrobes adorn the bedrooms. These charming features harmonize effortlessly with modern amenities such as air-conditioning, in-room safes, and hairdryers.
Cuisine And Wine
The kitchen serves as the heart of Kwandwe Uplands House, a farmhouse that exudes charm and warmth. With its quaint wrought iron chandeliers and pristine tiled walls, it sets the perfect ambience. Behind the traditional cooking range, a skilled chef masterfully operates modern catering equipment, resulting in a delightful fusion of beloved family classics and innovative dishes. The dining area becomes a gathering spot for loved ones, where they share delectable meals and recount the day's adventures.
In the sitting room, clusters of comfortable chairs invite hours of relaxation. Outside, expansive lush green lawns and a sparkling pool offer a perfect outlet for youthful energy. Kwandwe Uplands House captures the essence of a farmhouse retreat, seamlessly blending tradition with modernity to create an inviting and timeless atmosphere.
Lodge Facilities
There is also a luxurious full-size swimming pool, perfect for a refreshing dip on a sunny day. Adjacent to the swimming pool, a charming gazebo awaits, nestled amongst meticulously manicured rolling lawns.
Surrounding the area are sweeping slopes adorned with hundreds of vibrant aloes, adding a touch of natural beauty to the landscape.
Safari Activities
Experience the ultimate wildlife adventure with a private safari vehicle at Kwandwe Uplands House, accompanied by a knowledgeable ranger and tracker. This exclusive setup provides a fully customizable itinerary, allowing you to embark on daily game drives, immerse in nature walks, and even participate in thrilling big game walking safaris where you track white rhino, black rhino, elephant, and buffalo on foot.
Additionally, you can enjoy interpretive bush walks, gaining deeper insights into the surrounding ecosystem, and engage in fishing activities.
Embrace the freedom to explore and discover the wonders of the wilderness, creating unforgettable memories at every turn.
Family Friendly
Kwandwe Uplands House is the perfect destination for families travelling with children. With a wide range of child-friendly activities to choose from, there is never a dull moment. From exciting outdoor adventures to engaging indoor games, there's something to entertain every little one. And don't worry about mealtime, as specially crafted menus cater to even the pickiest eaters.
For some well-deserved relaxation, please take advantage of the optional child-minding service, allowing parents to unwind and enjoy their time while knowing their children are in safe hands.
Spa And Wellness
A wide range of luxurious wellness treatments is readily available for you to indulge in the comfort and privacy of your exquisite suite. Immerse yourself in a world of tranquillity and rejuvenation as expert therapists pamper you with personalized massages, invigorating facials, soothing body treatments, and much more.
In Conclusion
Kwandwe Uplands House is a perfect blend of traditional elegance and modern comfort, nestled in the heart of a vibrant and diverse ecosystem. Its luxurious suites, delectable cuisine, and a wide array of activities offer guests an unforgettable safari experience.
Whether you are a wildlife enthusiast yearning for thrilling encounters with the Big Five, a family seeking an adventurous getaway, or a solo traveller looking for a serene retreat, Kwandwe Uplands House caters to every desire.
Immerse yourself in the beauty and wonder of the wilderness, and relish the warmth and comfort of this exceptional farmhouse retreat.
Rates from R63 600.00 exclusive use
- Kwandwe Uplands House Rates
- Per Lodge per night sharing (exclusive use)
- Rates apply to groups of up to 5 people
- Rates are in South African Rands
- *Rates may vary according to season
- Accommodation
- Twice daily game drives
- Nature walks accompanied by an armed ranger
- Big game walking safari
- 3 meals daily
- Soft drinks, house wines, local & premium brand spirits, beers, teas & coffees
- Laundry
- Emergency medical evacuation insurance
- VAT
- Transfers to & from the reserve’s airstrip
- Complimentary child-minding
- 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 not mentioned above
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.