Luxury Meets Wilderness
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Planning a safari can be an exciting yet overwhelming experience, especially when it comes to choosing the perfect accommodation. Spanning more than 11,500 hectares of African wilderness, Kariega Game Reserve offers a tapestry of beauty, biodiversity, and luxury safari accommodations that provide something for every traveller who comes to experience the unique charm of our reserve.
Whether you're seeking adventure, relaxation, or a special celebration, we are here to ensure that your time with us is nothing short of unforgettable, creating memories that will last a lifetime
Kariega offers five distinct lodges, each with its own unique charm and character. Since everyone has different tastes, you're sure to find one that perfectly suits your preferences. The three featured in this blog are where wilderness meets luxury, offering an unforgettable blend of comfort and natural beauty.
Here's a look at what you can expect while on safari at Kariega Game Reserve staying at our beautiful Ukhozi Lodge, River Lodge or Settlers Drift.
Ukhozi Lodge: Intimate and Romantic
Embrace the romance of the African bush when you book your stay at Ukhozi Lodge. This four-star lodge exudes romance and warmth, making it the perfect option for honeymooners or couples searching for a romantic escape in the African wilderness. Meandering bush paths connect 10 luxury suits, each with its own breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape and private plunge pool.
However, the intimacy of Ukhozi extends beyond couples looking for a romantic escape - it’s also perfect for families with older children or small groups seeking a safari experience with breathtaking panoramic views of the river and wildlife-rich vegetation.
Key Features
Private Plunge Pool: Have you ever spent an afternoon escaping the South African heat in a plunge pool, surrounded by the symphony of birdlife? At Ukhozi Lodge, every suite features its own private plunge pool, offering breathtaking views of the Kariega Valley. This exclusivity is perfect for couples looking to enjoy privacy and tranquility in the heart of the bush.
Communal Rim-Flow Pool: If you’re still up for taking a dip but feel like mingling with your fellow guests, the lodge’s beautiful rim-flow pool is the perfect location. Nestled on the valley edge, it’s simply iconic - offering panoramic views of the plains teaming with wildlife. Take full advantage of your holiday by grabbing a drink from Kariega and unwinding with a cocktail by the pool. Stretch out on a sun lounger, soak up the surroundings, and let the relaxation begin.
Activities:
Our guided bush walks are a truly unique way to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the Eastern Cape, leaving our guests with a deep sense of connection to nature as they discover the intricate details of the ecosystem.
For a chance to spot abundant bird and animal life while gliding along the Kariega River, chat to your field guide for a chance to join this exciting Kariega activity. This unforgettable experience offers a unique perspective of the African bush, immersing you in the serenity of the dramatic river valley. After a day of adventure, unwind and rejuvenate at our tranquil Wellness Centre—the perfect ending to your safari explorations.
Atmosphere:
Ukhozi Lodge seamlessly blends luxury with nature, offering intimate, suites with private plunge pools, panoramic views of the Kariega valley and plains, and an iconic rim-flow pool that captures the essence of African romance and serenity.
River Lodge: Riverside Retreat
Nestled on the banks of the Bushman’s River, our River Lodge feels like a hidden treasure waiting to be discovered. With its thatched roofs peeking out from a lush canopy of vegetation, it offers a safari experience unlike any other. Here, we’ve combined the best of luxury, nature, and the tranquil beauty of the river to create a truly unforgettable escape.
Key Features
Intimate Lodge Facilities: River Lodge offers 10 spacious, air-conditioned suites that provide guests with an exclusive and serene experience. Spend your mornings embracing the beauty of your surroundings from your private patio, or find a quiet spot in one of the lodge’s lounges.
Riverside Views: Find a seat on the lodge’s expansive deck where you’ll be treated to uninterrupted views of the river as it winds through the landscape. This peaceful setting allows you to fully embrace the serenity of the Kariega Valley, making it the perfect retreat for relaxation and rejuvenation.
Connection to The Coast: Going on safari, soaking up the sun, and serenity may be on your bucket list when visiting Kariega, but our River Lodge offers a unique connection to the coast that allows you to experience both the thrill of the bush and the tranquility of the beach. With boat cruises along the Bushman’s River and access to the pristine shores Kenton-on-Sea , you can enjoy the best of both worlds, all while surrounded by the natural beauty of our private game reserve.
Activities:
There’s something magical about gliding along the water, where the riverbanks come alive with the sights and sounds of wildlife. Birdwatchers, in particular, will love this part of the reserve, where a variety of bird species call Kariega home.
Our optional daily boat cruises ferry guests through the charming village of Kenton-on-Sea to its picturesque beaches. These trips always offer a unique contrast to the bush experience, but it’s a wonderful way for you to get a taste of what the diverse Eastern Cape has to offer. Avid fishermen will also love this location, as it offers the perfect spot for fishing—even if you're just starting out. Canoeing on the river, guided bush walks and a trip to our Wellness Centre are just a few other activities you can enjoy when staying at River Lodge.
Atmosphere
Whether it’s adventure or tranquility you’re after, River Lodge offers a bit of both, creating the perfect balance for an unforgettable stay.
Settlers Drift: Ultimate Luxury in the Wilderness
Settlers Drift is our five star safari lodge nestled in a remote and untouched part of the Kariega wilderness. The lodge offers nine spacious tented suites that seamlessly blend modern sophistication with the rugged beauty of the African wilderness.
Tented Suites: Each tented suite provides an opulent bedroom and living room area, indoor and outdoor shower and a private viewing deck that offers stunning and secluded views of the surrounding area.
Elegant Design: We have gone above and beyond to ensure this safari lodge epitomises modern elegance while still ensuring a deep respect for its natural surroundings. The design seamlessly integrates contemporary luxury with the untamed beauty of the African wilderness, with each tented suite offering uninterrupted views of the bushveld.
Exceptional Service: Nothing brings us more joy than creating unforgettable moments for our guests. From the smallest details to the grandest gestures, we want to ensure you’re walking away with only the best memories.
Activities
During your stay, guests at Settlers Drift can request a delicious breakfast in the bush while surrounded by the sights and sounds of the wilderness. which is a truly authentic African experience. You might even be lucky enough to have an elephant wander by!
Once you have the necessary fuel, make sure you take advantage of our guided bush walks or explore the Bushmans River with our boat cruise. If you feel like spending the day unwinding, our Wellness Centre is a must!
Atmosphere
Sophisticated, secluded, and a perfect blend of modern luxury and bushveld charm, Settlers Drift offers an incredible retreat for those searching for those extraordinary moments.
Book Your Stay
Our reservations team would love to accommodate your unique needs and make your Kariega safari a reality! Don’t hesitate to contact us at reservations@kariega.co.za or call +27 (0) 46 636 7904.
Every visit to Kariega is a safari with purpose through our partnership with the Kariega Foundation.
Contact our friendly reservations team today!
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