Kariega Game Reserve

Port Elizabeth, Eastern Cape

Star rating

Kariega Main Lodge
Kariega Main Lodge
Kariega Main Lodge
Kariega Main Lodge
Ukhozi Lodge
Ukhozi Lodge
Ukhozi Lodge Pool
Ukhozi Lodge
Ukhozi Lodge
Ukhozi Lodge
Guided Bush Walk
River Lodge
River Lodge
River Lodge
River Lodge
Settlers Drift
Settlers Drift
Tented Suite at Settlers Drift
A video preview image
Kariega Main Lodge
Kariega Main Lodge
Kariega Main Lodge
Kariega Main Lodge
Ukhozi Lodge
Ukhozi Lodge
Ukhozi Lodge Pool
Ukhozi Lodge
Ukhozi Lodge
Ukhozi Lodge
Guided Bush Walk
River Lodge
River Lodge
River Lodge
River Lodge
Settlers Drift
Settlers Drift
Tented Suite at Settlers Drift

The hotel

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

Where is it

On 12,000 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, 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

Ukhozi Lodge – truly captures the romance and intimacy of Africa, offering10 luxury suites crafted from log, each with a private plunge pool and deck offering panoramic views of the river plains. 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 that offer a spacious living area and bedroom, full bathroom, indoor/outdoor shower, and a private deck with unrivalled panoramic views over valley plains, sleeping maximum 3 adults or 2 adults and 1 child (over 10 years old).

The Homestead – the Homestead is a private lodge set in a remote and private part of the reserve. With 7 bedrooms, all en suite, a bar, swimming pool, satellite TV, lounge, large garden, boma and spectacular views, it is a great choice for a group or family.

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, Settlers Drift, and Ukhozi Lodge.

Rating summary

  • Location Image of the Tripadvisor rating
  • Sleep Quality Image of the Tripadvisor rating
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Traveller rating

  • Excellent (320)
  • Very good (30)
  • Average (4)
  • Poor (1)
  • Terrible (0)
Image of the Tripadvisor rating Out of this world!!!

Sep 12, 2025 Marie W

Words almost fail me trying to write this review because there are just too many good things to say! From the moment we arrived until the moment we left, everything was… well, not just perfect, but more than perfect. The staff were incredible – every single one of them so thoughtful and kind. Our guide Melissa was an absolute star. She went above… Read more
Words almost fail me trying to write this review because there are just too many good things to say! From the moment we arrived until the moment we left, everything was… well, not just perfect, but more than perfect. The staff were incredible – every single one of them so thoughtful and kind. Our guide Melissa was an absolute star. She went above and beyond to make sure we saw everything we hoped for and that we were comfortable every step of the way. Most of our drives had just four of us, but for our last afternoon and morning we were the only guests in the lodge – and that meant we had Melissa all to ourselves! Honestly, who gets that?! I’d have totally understood if they’d combined us with another group since we were just a couple, but no – we had our very own private drive, which felt unbelievably special. Melissa was fab: knowledgeable, fun, considerate (she even made sure the snacks and drinks suited us), and just an all-round wonderful person. We can’t thank her enough. And it wasn’t just Melissa – everyone else was amazing too. I’ll admit, I was a little worried before going that I might have to ‘make do’ as a vegetarian. How wrong I was! The food was absolutely fantastic – I honestly don’t think I’ve ever eaten so well on a holiday. They even made me a birthday cake, and on our last night, despite us being the only guests, they put on a proper Boma with singing, dancing, and an explanation of the songs. It was magical and we felt so spoiled. They even helped patch up a broken suitcase so we could travel onwards without worry – just another example of how nothing was too much trouble. And of course, the animals! That’s why you go on safari, right? This was our very first one and I knew there was a chance we might not see everything… but wow, were we lucky. Within hours of landing in Port Elizabeth we were already face-to-face with lions. Then came zebras, giraffes, rhinos, elephants, wildebeest , antelope galore, and even wallowing hippos. We ticked off everything we’d hoped to see (okay, except for the lion cubs – but that just gives us the perfect excuse to come back!). Honestly, if you’re hesitating about whether to book this safari – don’t. Just go. It was magical from start to finish, and I couldn’t fault a single thing. Huge thanks to Melissa and the whole team – you gave us memories we’ll treasure forever, and we really hope to see you again. Read less
Image of the Tripadvisor rating Honeymoon

Aug 16, 2025 Rhydian M

Trip of a lifetime. Amazing place! Margoux was an incredible game driver. Food and staff were amazing. Super friendly!
Image of the Tripadvisor rating Kariega FANTASTIC P

Jul 17, 2025 DayTrip19422922333

The best Reserve 4th time and can't wait to go again.Staff friendly and nothing is a problem. Brendon our game ranger was AMAZING, knew his stuff and really went the extra mile.Foix and accommodation highly recommended. Thank you Kariega for a amazing 3 days
Image of the Tripadvisor rating Top Notch Place

Jul 14, 2025 Gina W

This place was amazing. They have wonderful staff, top notch food, amazing Safari and a beautiful room. We had never done a Safari before and Kariega is the place to do one. We didn’t want to leave! My wife and I had such a wonderful time, we would love to go back!
Image of the Tripadvisor rating Worth the money and more!

Jul 14, 2025 Sophie G

Most amazing experience ever. We booked this for our honeymoon as it had been a life time dream of my husband’s and it did not disappoint. I would recommend it to everyone. The food was delicious, the service was brilliant, you couldn’t ask for more. We couldn’t have been looked after better. The managers were so lovely, and often made us laugh… Read more
Most amazing experience ever. We booked this for our honeymoon as it had been a life time dream of my husband’s and it did not disappoint. I would recommend it to everyone. The food was delicious, the service was brilliant, you couldn’t ask for more. We couldn’t have been looked after better. The managers were so lovely, and often made us laugh too. Megan, our guide, was the complete highlight of the trip. Megan was outstanding, not only incredibly knowledgeable but also very personable! If Megan said she was going to try to see an animal she did everything she possibly could to make that happen. Her driving is incredible and she was determined to get you as close as possible while still being incredibly respectful to the animals. I have a million more compliments I could give her. Best experience ever. Read less