*Denotes local charge
*Denotes local charge
River Lodge
4.5
Sitting right on the banks of the Bushman's river, the air-conditioned thatched suites of the homely Kariega Game Reserve River Lodge offer guests a truly intimate and immersive experience. Reflecting the tranquillity of the river beyond, the lodge is a cosy and intimate space to sit back and relax, as well as explore the wondrous natural world beyond. Its superb location makes it a great spot to head out on a canoe and there's a spa on-site for soothing treatments after long days out in the bush. Curl up with a book from the lodge's library in one of the lounges, take a refreshing dip in the pool, or bask in the sensational views afforded by either the large deck which overhangs the river, or your own private patio. Connecting the vast plains of the game reserve to the sea, the river on which the lodge sits makes this a truly unique experience. Try your hand at river fishing, or perhaps embark on one of the lodge's daily boat cruises and try to spot the verdant wildlife of the river as you travel through the quaint village of Kenton-on-sea and on to the picturesque beaches of the coast.
In a remote valley overlooking the Bushman’s River, Settlers Drift is heavenly retreat. Reached by boat or by the winding road that was carefully cleared with the aim of removing the fewest number of trees possible, this secluded pocket of the wildlife-rich Eastern Cape is as exclusive as it gets. There are just nine luxury tented suites, each with a beautiful modern design in a stunning setting, and game drives are more intimate. There are just six seats per vehicle, and you'll have binoculars to share as well as blankets and ponchos to keep you warm on chilly morning drives. The lodge has spacious lounges, a bar and an outdoor fire pit on the viewing deck, offering plenty of opportunities to get to know your small number of fellow guests. At meals, the wine is free-flowing and you can expect an exceptional level of service that's both attentive and relaxed. If you can peel yourself away from your luxurious tented suite, there's an infinity pool for afternoon laps, a wine cellar and a sala for decadent spa treatments. Each opulent tented suite is completely private; they've been spaced out at around 100 metres from one another so you'll feel like you have the place to yourself. They have a large bedroom, living area and en suite under its billowing tented roof. There's an open-plan bathroom with a bath and semi-outdoor rain shower and a a well-stocked minibar and a log burner for cosy nights in. With the tented sides easily lifted, you can enjoy the wonders of the African bush from the indulgent surrounds of your room. As the sun sets and the nocturnal wildlife of the plains begin to stir, step out on deck to listen to the sounds of the Kariega Game Reserve by night.
Ukhozi Lodge
4.5
Ukhozi Lodge captures the modern romance of safari. This former rustic lodge has recently been rebuilt with a stunning new rim-flow pool for gazing out to the valley from its half-moon edge. The lodge has the charm of a modern farmhouse with exposed wooden beams and stone walls, but has the inescapable feeling of being on safari thanks to the floor-to-ceiling windows that let in the outdoors. Cosy up on a sofa by the lounge fireplace after exhilarating game drives trying to spot the Big Five or take a trip to the new wellness centre for a rejuvenating massage. Or take advantage of Ukhozi Lodge's location close to the Kariega River and go on a river cruise. With only ten luxury log suites, this intimate lodge is ideal for honeymooners. The main lodge area and its restaurant, bar, lounges, library and boma make it easy to mingle with your fellow guests, and yet privacy can also be easily found. Each suite has a private pool and a deck to drink in the panoramic views out across the valley.
Settlers Drift
