Kariega Game Reserve

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Kariega Game Reserve | Port Elizabeth, Eastern Cape | Virgin Atlantic Holidays

Port Elizabeth, Eastern Cape

4 stars

Family owned and managed, it would be accurate to say that the gradual growth and development of the now expansive 12,000 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. With a choice of lodges; Ukhozi and River Lodge offer a more intimate atmosphere, and the Main lodge is ideal for families; so whatever the occasion, Kariega Game reserve has something to suit your needs and create lasting memories.

Amenities

Families
Honeymoon
Safari
Bar
Swimming Pool

Explore the local area

On 12,000 hectares of natural bushveld in the Eastern Cape. Transfer time from Port Elizabeth Airport: 1 hour 30 minutes.

Hotel Information

Room Information
Room Upgrade 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, tea/coffee-making facilities and hairdryer. Sleeping maximum 6 adults or 4 adults and 2 children or 2 adults and 4 children.

All Inclusive of: All Kariega’s other lodges namely Ukhozi Lodge, River Lodge,Settlers Drift and The Homestead are on a Fully Inclusive basis ie. allmeals, all selected beverages, two game-drives per day, river cruises andguided bush walks.

Full Board: All meals, two game-drives per day, river cruises and guided bush walks (excludingbeverages).

Please note that Full Board is only applicable to Main Lodge

Hotel details

Facilities

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.

Additional Information

* Denotes local charge.

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

Trip advisor rating

4.9/5

359 reviews

Location
Sleep Quality
Rooms
Service
Value
Cleanliness

Excellent

90%

Very Good

Average

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Terrible

“Peace and luxury. Oh, and plenty of great sightings too - although never guaranteed”

Feb 08, 2026JupitusWilson

A very slick operation - from welcome drinks on arrival to cold flannels ready and waiting at the end of each game drive. Food is of a high quality and there are daily menu changes. Catered very well for me with a gluten free diet. We were also lucky enough to be there for one of the Bomas and it was lovely to hear the ladies singing. Thanks to our guide, JJ, for searching high and low for some of our spots; although the rangers work together to try and find the elephants and lions, they all have their own methods and we had some thrilling rides along the way, along with some stunning views when we stopped for a break. They don't overcrowd the animals - no more than 3 jeeps are allowed at a sighting at any one time - and consequently it never felt commercialised and, most importantly, the animals didn't appear to feel threatened. The lodges were stunning and the wellness centre offered a good value range of treatments - would advise booking on arrival if you want a particular time slot.

“Safari Stay”

Sep 18, 2025Peter B

Simply excellent from JJ the guide to the service/ food & accommodation way beyond expectations, in the great big scheme of things a small game reserve but just perfect & we saw everything

“Fantastic staff, food, accommodation and animals. Trip of a lifetime.”

Sep 14, 2025MoonstoneJimbob

Visited Kariega and stayed at Ukhozi Lodge as part of a birthday celebration with our friends. We could not have picked a more perfect place to celebrate. All the staff have been amazing and what can I say about the food; it’s five star grub, morning, noon and evening. We experienced the wonders of the park with Megan, our guide, she is a font of knowledge and a credit to the reserve. We went on five drives and each one provided wonderful new experiences. Please look after Leonard and Alfred, as we expect to see them on our return trip here

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Protection for your Package Holiday

Some of the flights and flight-inclusive holidays on this website are financially protected by the ATOL scheme. However, ATOL protection does not apply to all holiday and travel services listed on this website. Please ask us to confirm what protection may apply to your booking. If you do not receive an ATOL Certificate then the booking will not be ATOL protected. If you do receive an ATOL Certificate but all the parts of your trip are not listed on it, those parts will not be ATOL protected. Please see our booking conditions for information, or for more information about financial protection and the ATOL Certificate go to: https://www.atol.org/about-atol/atol-certificates.

This product offers you combinations of a hotel and flights at an inclusive price. This product enjoys the protection of the Package Travel, Package Travel and Linked Arrangements Regulations 2018.

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