Kariega Game Reserve — panoramic view of the reserve

Kariega Game Reserve

Where Rivers Meet the Wild

Kenton-on-Sea, Eastern Cape145 km (1.5 hour drive) from PE11,500 hectares
Big Five Malaria-Free Family-Friendly
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4.9/ 5 — 1,050 reviews
From R7,200/ person / night

About Kariega Game Reserve

Kariega Game Reserve is a family-owned and operated treasure in the Eastern Cape, spanning 11,500 hectares of magnificent hills, dramatic river valleys, and indigenous bush. Two rivers — the Kariega and Bushman's — wind through the reserve, creating a unique combination of land and water-based safari experiences.

The reserve's five lodges each offer a distinct character: from the tented luxury of Settlers Drift perched above the river, to the intimate Main Lodge with its family-friendly atmosphere. Kariega is renowned for its incredible rhino conservation story — Thandi, a rhino who survived a brutal poaching attack, became a global symbol of hope.

With five biomes converging on the property, the biodiversity is extraordinary. Game drives regularly encounter the Big Five alongside hippo, giraffe, zebra, and over 280 bird species. River cruises offer a completely different perspective on the bush.

Highlights

Family-owned for generationsTwo rivers run through the reserveThandi the rhino — conservation iconLand & water-based safarisFive distinct biomesKariega Foundation community projects

Gallery

Wildlife You'll See

LionLeopardElephantRhinoBuffaloHippoGiraffeZebraAfrican Fish EagleEland

Activities

Game drivesRiver cruisesCanoeingBush walksFishingSpa treatmentsChildren's programme

Lodges & 2026 Rates

All rates per person per night, fully all-inclusive unless stated otherwise.

Settlers Drift — Kariega Game Reserve

Settlers Drift

Ultra-luxury tented lodge suspended above the Bushman's River. Glass-fronted suites, private decks, and infinity pool overlooking the bush.

18 guests in 9 tented suites Min age: 10
Tented luxuryRiver viewsInfinity poolGlass frontagePrivate deck
Low Season — May–Aug 2026R12,800/ pp / night
~$679
Ukhozi Lodge — Kariega Game Reserve

Ukhozi Lodge

Intimate hilltop lodge with panoramic views, open-plan suites, and an atmosphere of refined bush luxury.

20 guests in 10 suites Min age: 10
Hilltop positionPanoramic viewsFully inclusiveOpen-plan suitesBoma dining
Low Season — May–Aug 2026R9,000/ pp / night
~$478
River Lodge — Kariega Game Reserve

River Lodge

Set on the banks of the Bushman's River with spacious suites, a swimming pool, and gentle river sounds as your soundtrack.

20 guests in 10 suites Min age: 10
RiverfrontSwimming poolSpacious suitesFully inclusivePeaceful setting
Low Season — May–Aug 2026R9,000/ pp / night
~$478
Main Lodge — Kariega Game Reserve

Main Lodge

Family-friendly log chalets with air conditioning, en-suite bathrooms, and private viewing decks. Children of all ages welcome.

24 guests in 12 chalets0
Family-friendlyAll ages welcomeLog chaletsViewing decksPool & bar
Low Season — May–Aug 2026R7,200/ pp / night
~$382

What's Included

  • Accommodation
  • All meals
  • Selected beverages (select lodges)
  • Two game drives daily
  • River cruise
  • VAT

Not Included

  • Conservation levy (R250/adult/night)
  • Premium beverages
  • Spa treatments
  • Transfers

Ready to Experience Kariega Game Reserve?

Let us plan your perfect safari — best rates guaranteed, complimentary transfers, and a bespoke itinerary tailored to you.