Kariega

Kariega Game Reserve is a family-owned and operated Big 5 private safari reserve located in South Africa's Eastern Cape. The reserve is situated along the Garden Route, making it the perfect South African safari destination to compliment a Cape Town visit and a trip along the country’s beautiful coast.

This malaria-free game reserve incorporates 10,000 hectares of pristine African wilderness, as well as two abundant rivers - the Kariega and the Bushmans rivers. The reserve offers five safari lodges to suit all needs. Experience close up game viewing of the Big 5 - lion, elephant, rhino, buffalo and leopard - as well as multitudes of other South African wildlife from the comfort of an open game drive vehicle.

Each day begins with a morning safari as the sun brings the bush to life. During evening game drives you may be lucky enough to witness the thrill of a lion hunt, be surrounded by a herd of elephant, or watch as a family of hippo emerge from the water for a night of grazing. As nocturnal life begins to stir, return safely to the lodge for a hearty dinner.

Two beautiful rivers and access to the sea by boat from some lodges make this game reserve unique. Complement your safari experience with a boat cruise, guided bush walk, relaxing spa or take a canoe onto the river for a quiet paddle. In the evenings, sit back with a sundowner to simply enjoy the tranquil sights and sounds of bush life within this unique game reserve.

Kariega Game Reserve is ideally situated in the subtropical Eastern Cape coastal region and easily accessible by road and air.

Inclusive Activities

Game Drives

Guests are taken out twice daily in open safari vehicles, usually in the early morning and late afternoon, although times are dependent on the season and weather. Enjoy the sights and sounds of the African bush, while your skilled ranger provides hidden details and fascinating facts about the surrounding wildlife. Game drives are the center of the Kariega safari experience and guests will be thrilled by close-up encounters with the likes of lion, elephant and an abundance of other African wildlife.

River Cruises

An abundance of bird and animal life makes for exciting game viewing whilst enjoying the peace and tranquility of the dramatic river valley. During one of the morning game drives, guests at Main Lodge, Ukhozi Lodge and The Homestead can enjoy a majestic cruise down the Kariega river. At River Lodge, an optional daily boat cruise takes guests down the Bushmans river, through the quaint village of Kenton-on-Sea and to its picturesque beaches. Settlers Drift guests can also enjoy boat cruises on the Bushmans river.

Guided Bush Walks

Kariega offers guided bush walks with our experienced rangers. This provides our guests with the opportunity of walking amongst more than 25 species of game and abundant birdlife.

Canoeing

Take one the canoes for a leisurely paddle down either the Kariega or the Bushmans rivers and watch in blissful silence as the river birds and animals go about their daily business.

Fishing

Guests at all lodges can enjoy river fishing on either the Kariega or Bushmans rivers. River Lodge and Settlers Drift are perfectly situated for keen fisherman, where guests can fish in the Bushmans river from a boat or canoe.