*Denotes local charge
*Denotes local charge
Perched high above the sweeping plains of the Kariega Game Reserve and the rivers that majestically carve their way through them, Kariega Main Lodge has unrivalled views that sweep across the spectacular valley. Its communal feel makes it ideal for groups, and it's a great place to add to your self-drive holiday as each of the log cabins has its own parking space. There are plenty of opportunities to socialise with your fellow guests, with traditional meals served in the restaurant or boma, drinks available at the bar, and a swimming pool for a refreshing dip. The authentic log cabins are designed and built to blend in with the surrounding natural environment. Each chalet is fully air-conditioned and features en-suite bedrooms, a spacious lounge with a fireplace and a private viewing deck from which you can admire the Kariega River Valley and the tranquil African bush below. Some cabins even feature their own private plunge pool, the perfect place to relax after a long day of discovery.
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.
Kariega Main Lodge
Settlers Drift
