Kariega Game Reserve - Main Lodge

Eastern Cape, South Africa

Kariega Main Lodge
Kariega Main Lodge, Kariega Private Game Reserve, South Africa
Kariega Main Lodge
Kariega Main Lodge
Ukhozi Lodge
Ukhozi Lodge
Ukhozi Lodge
Ukhozi Lodge
Guided Bush Walk
River Lodge
River Lodge Suite
River Lodge
River Lodge
River Lodge
River Lodge
River Lodge
River Lodge
River Lodge
River cruise
River Lodge
Settler's Drift
Tented Suite at Settlers Drift
Settlers Drift Bathroom
Settlers Drift
Settlers Drift
Settlers Drift
Dining area at Settlers Drift
Deck with Fire Pit, Settler's Drift, Kariega Private Game Reserve, South Africa
Settlers Drift
Settlers Drift
Kariega Main Lodge
Kariega Main Lodge, Kariega Private Game Reserve, South Africa
Kariega Main Lodge
Kariega Main Lodge
Ukhozi Lodge
Ukhozi Lodge
Ukhozi Lodge
Ukhozi Lodge
Guided Bush Walk
River Lodge
River Lodge Suite
River Lodge
River Lodge
River Lodge
River Lodge
River Lodge
River Lodge
River Lodge
River cruise
River Lodge
Settler's Drift
Tented Suite at Settlers Drift
Settlers Drift Bathroom
Settlers Drift
Settlers Drift
Settlers Drift
Dining area at Settlers Drift
Deck with Fire Pit, Settler's Drift, Kariega Private Game Reserve, South Africa
Settlers Drift
Settlers Drift

The hotel

Family owned and managed, it would be accurate to say that the gradual growth and development of the now expansive 10,000 hectare malaria-free 'Big Five' reserve is one of the most accomplished conservation projects in the Eastern Cape to date. Kariega’s landscape spans across five different eco-systems, offering an exceptional game viewing and birding experience. Having two major rivers incorporated into the reserve (the Kariega and Bushmans rivers) adds enormous beauty and value.

Amenities

Where is it

On 10,000 hectares of natural bushveld in the Eastern Cape. Transfer time from Port Elizabeth Airport: 1 hour 30 minutes.

Hotel information

There are 5 different lodges: Main Lodge – has been expertly integrated with the surrounding bush offering stunning views of the reserve. The 24 log chalets enjoy complete privacy with large private viewing decks (some with private pools) and stunning views of the Kariega River valley. All chalets with air-conditioning, en-suite bedrooms, fire place and satellite TV, tea/coffee-making facilities and hairdryer. Sleeping maximum 3 adults or 2 adults and 1 child.

All Inclusive of: all meals and selected beverages (bottled water, soft drinks, local beers, wines brandy, whiskey, gin etc). Two game-drives per day, river cruises, guided bush walks and canoeing. 

All Inclusive basis for the Main Lodge is exclusive to Virgin Holidays guests.


Newly rebuilt Ukhozi Lodge – truly captures the romance and intimacy of Africa and offers 10 luxury suites crafted from log, each with a private plunge pool and deck offering panoramic views of the valley. Sleeping maximum 3 adults or 2 adults and 1 child (over 10 years old).

The River Lodge – is uniquely situated on the banks of the Bushmans River and comprises 10 luxury thatched suites. Special activities include daily boat trips to the Kenton beaches and river fishing. Sleeping maximum 3 adults or 2 adults and 1 child (over 10 years old).

Settlers Drift – is a 5-star luxury tented lodge, located in an untouched part of the Kariega wilderness, featuring 9 luxurious tented suites.

  • 2020 Honeymooners: Couples recieve a bottle of sparkling wine in their room on arrival. Couples staying 3 nights or more also receive a spa treatment to the value of ZAR500.00 per person. 

At each lodge – indoor and outdoor (boma) dining, lounges and bar, swimming pool, spacious decks, curio shop and spa treatments. Wine cellar (Settlers Drift and Ukhozi Lodge only). Activities include morning and evening game-drives, guided bush walks, river cruises, canoeing and fishing*. Activity programme for kids. Wellness Centre* at the Main Lodge and Ukhozi Lodge. Sala's at Settlers Drift and River Lodge. Complimentary WiFi is available at all lodges. Private laundry facilities.

* Denotes local charge.

Please note: all children are welcome at the Main Lodge. Children under 10 years are not permitted at River Lodge and Ukhozi Lodge.

Rating summary

  • Location Image of the Tripadvisor rating
  • Sleep Quality Image of the Tripadvisor rating
  • Rooms Image of the Tripadvisor rating
  • Service Image of the Tripadvisor rating
  • Value Image of the Tripadvisor rating
  • Cleanliness Image of the Tripadvisor rating

Traveller rating

  • Excellent (179)
  • Very good (30)
  • Average (3)
  • Poor (1)
  • Terrible (0)
Image of the Tripadvisor rating Wonderful 1st Safari experience

Mar 20, 2020 RiojaRebel North Yorkshire

As Safari virgins, my wife and I chose Ukhozi lodge through our trusted travel agents, Kuoni. The facilities are truly first class with little touches like a cool face towel and refreshing drink when you arrive back from your game drive. Highly recommended.
Image of the Tripadvisor rating Great game experience, but all inclusive was poor

Mar 1, 2020 janineB440 Rochdale, United Kingdom

We stayed in the Ukhozi lodges and these were of a good standard, large, well equipped and great views. However, the mini bar choice was limited and restocked daily only. The game drives were excellent and the ranger was very informative, we managed to awe all the animals we expected and more, this included a river cruise and the offer of a walk… Read more
We stayed in the Ukhozi lodges and these were of a good standard, large, well equipped and great views. However, the mini bar choice was limited and restocked daily only. The game drives were excellent and the ranger was very informative, we managed to awe all the animals we expected and more, this included a river cruise and the offer of a walk around the reserve with the ranger. He facilitated great opportunities to be amongst som of the animals and stopped frequently for photo opportunities. The negative side was the choice of food at lunchtime and evening, this was limited in choice, particularly lunchtime as this was more of a snack. It did not meet the standards od a 4* superior standard unfortunately. The majority of staff were friendly and professional. However, we would return but would not upgrade the accommodation as not to be disappointed Read less
Image of the Tripadvisor rating Wonderful second visit to Kariega

Feb 27, 2020 Mike D Port Alfred, South Africa

Remodeling done after the fire last year makes for a much more expansive and cleaner feeling to the lodge. Beautiful stonework on the wall. Loved the food and sitting by the warm fire at night. We will definitely return.
Image of the Tripadvisor rating Fantastic stay!

Feb 25, 2020 PiaKupka Lund, Sweden

The best service ever and the rooms were fantastic. We stayed at the Ukhozi lodge. Wonderful tours in the safari park with the guide where we saw lions, rhinos, giraffs, elephants, water buffalos, hippos, pumbas, ostridges, zebras and a lot more. Very good food and wine as well.
Image of the Tripadvisor rating Stunning

Feb 14, 2020 martinrmn wales

What an experience! Words fail me but will do my best. My wife and I thoroughly enjoyed our time here from the moment we arrived, in a rainstorm, to the time we left. Our suite was exceptional with a private dip pool, mini bar and a huge bed. When we arrived in the rain, our guide for the duration, Allen came out in the rain to introduce himself.… Read more
What an experience! Words fail me but will do my best. My wife and I thoroughly enjoyed our time here from the moment we arrived, in a rainstorm, to the time we left. Our suite was exceptional with a private dip pool, mini bar and a huge bed. When we arrived in the rain, our guide for the duration, Allen came out in the rain to introduce himself. What a wonderful man. Throughout our game drives he was able to answer all our questions and, more importantly, he was a genuinely nice young man. He helped make the experience that much more enjoyable but that is not meant to detract from the other staff. The staff we met were all a credit to the Lodge, a welcome smile and nothing too much trouble. The food was fantastic and I especially liked our breaks on the game dives for coffee in the morning and beer/wine in the afternoon. We met other guests and were sat for meals according to our specific ranger. The lodge itself is an experience. The theming is so authentic, not that I am an expert, and very relaxing. Would we return? Most definitely and are currently saving for next year Read less