Big Five Safari Experience
Kariega is a malaria-free, family-owned game reserve where you can see the Big Five—lion, elephant, rhino, buffalo, and leopard. The reserve provides a more intimate and personalized safari experience compared to larger, more commercial reserves. Beyond the Big Five, Kariega is home to an abundance of wildlife, including giraffes, zebras, hippos, and over 280 bird species. The reserve's diverse landscapes range from grassy plains to dense thickets and riverine forests, providing varied habitats for different species.
Exclusive and Intimate Accommodation and Experiences
With a limited number of guests at any time, Kariega provides an exclusive and uncrowded experience, allowing for more personal interactions with nature and wildlife. The reserve provides luxurious accommodations in several lodges, each offering stunning views and comfort. For a family-friendly lodge or a more exclusive, romantic setting.
Variety of Activities
Kariega offers a wide range of activities, including guided game drives, bush walks, river cruises, and canoeing. The reserve also has a wellness center where you can relax with a massage or other treatments after a day of exploration.
Conservation Efforts
The reserve is committed to conservation and wildlife protection, actively involved in several projects like rhino anti-poaching initiatives and community upliftment programs. By visiting, you support these vital conservation efforts.
Winter (May to August)
Winter is the dry season, when the vegetation is less dense and animals congregate around water sources, making wildlife easier to spot. The cooler temperatures (ranging from 7°C to 22°C) are also more comfortable for game drives. This is typically a quieter time with fewer tourists, providing a more intimate experience.
Spring (September to November)
Spring is a fantastic time for birdwatching, as migratory birds return and the bush is alive with activity. Temperatures begin to warm up, and the landscape is lush and green after the winter rains, offering beautiful scenery.
Summer (December to February)
The summer months are the rainy season, leading to lush vegetation and vibrant landscapes. This period can be particularly beautiful for photography. Summer coincides with school holidays, making it a popular time for family vacations. Temperatures can range from 16°C to 30°C, so be prepared for warm days. Many animals give birth during the summer, so you may have the chance to see young animals and their mothers.
Autumn (March to April)
Autumn offers pleasant, mild temperatures and less rainfall, making it an excellent time for game drives and outdoor activities. With fewer tourists compared to the summer months, autumn can provide a quieter and more relaxed experience.
Kariega Game Reserve is located in the Eastern Cape province of South Africa. The reserve is situated near the towns of Kenton-on-Sea and Port Alfred, approximately 140 kilometers (87 miles) northeast of Port Elizabeth, along South Africa’s Sunshine Coast.
A family-friendly, safari lodge, spacious log chalets with en-suite bedrooms, some with private pools.
The Main Lodge is ideal for families or groups, offering a relaxed and social atmosphere with amenities like a swimming pool, restaurant, and a wellness center. The chalets provide stunning views of the surrounding bushveld.
Romantic, adult-oriented and exclusive suites with private plunge pools.
Designed for couples or those seeking a more intimate experience, Ukhozi Lodge offers seclusion and luxury with its contemporary suites. The lodge features panoramic views, a central lounge, a dining area, and a large pool deck.
Tranquil, a riverside retreat, consists of 10 luxury thatched suites along the Bushman’s River.
Set on the banks of the Bushman’s River, River Lodge offers a serene setting where guests can enjoy river cruises, canoeing, and fishing. The lodge has an open-plan design, a central dining area, and a bar overlooking the river.
Luxury tented camp with 9 spacious tented suites with panoramic views.
Settlers Drift provides a blend of luxury and adventure, with beautifully appointed tented suites that offer stunning views of the Bushman’s River and surrounding valleys. The lodge has a large deck, a pool, a boma, and an elegant dining area.
Oct 23, 2024
Shann @ Safari.com is fantastic!
We worked with Shann Shaw and she was amazing! As someone who usually books my own travel I was a little bit skeptical at first... But safaris are not like a typical vacation and there are just SO many different options. Shann was incredibly patient in answering all of my questions, and eventually found the perfect safari lodge for me and my family. I really don't think I could have done it without her help. Highly recommend working with her!
Oct 23, 2024
Service was excellent
Service was excellent, and I was sent a reminder when the balance was due.
Oct 23, 2024
Booking with Leigh-Ann Croeser
Thank you for this fantastic booking experience. Leigh-Ann Croeser did everything to let my wishes become reality. I wasn’t an easy customer, but he never let me feel that. She answered very fast to all my questions and helped me with everything so that we have the most of our trip. Thank you very much for organizing our dream Safari. I can only recommend it.
Oct 23, 2024
Sara
Sara, bent over backwards to give us what we wanted as we changed our minds more than once
Oct 23, 2024
Very Responsive and Patient w/ Our Needs!
Anja has been great in making our travel reservations! She is very quick and responsive (at all hours, I'm not sure when she sleeps)! We went back and forth on 39 emails. Yes, 39 emails for a couple of weeks. She made several different itineraries in ranging prices, types of accommodations, and locations. She was patient through the whole process and provided so much information. We finally decided on our perfect trip!
Oct 21, 2024
Friendliness
Friendliness, quick response to my request and understanding of my needs It was only a pleasure dealing with Tanya Lomas.
Oct 21, 2024
Excellent, fast, helpful service
The service from Leigh-Ann has been exceptional. No matter the difference in time zone, her responses and suggestions are always fast and helpful. When we’ve asked for changes to the itinerary, there has never been a problem. Highly recommended.
Oct 18, 2024
Cannot recommend enough
Cannot recommend enough! Contacted at 6pm night before and Dorothy was helpful friendly and managed to book a safari trip with transport for 6 people! She was contactable on the day too and very very helpful!
Oct 17, 2024
Aquilia Safari trip
Re: Safari from Cape Town to Aquilia. Fadiel was very helpful and organised our trip for us. We were picked up by Joe, who was our driver for the day. Joe is born and raised in Cape Town. He was prompt and was very friendly and informative. There was a good choice of food at Aquilia and had choices for my husband too who is Coeliac.