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
  • 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 (327)
  • Very good (30)
  • Average (4)
  • Poor (1)
  • Terrible (0)
Image of the Tripadvisor rating A luxurious game reserve experience

Feb 28, 2026 JD-Moon Toronto, Canada

Everything about this lodge was wonderful, from the food to the amenities and the game drives. First class.
Image of the Tripadvisor rating Unforgettable experience

Feb 21, 2026 GCClowes Stoke-on-Trent, United Kingdom

Audley Travel recommended Kariega Game Reserve for our group of eight friends. This was my first Safari and it’s going to be a very hard one to beat. We stayed in the Ukhozi Lodge. Our accommodation was a semi detached log cabin. We had a huge bed a, lovely sitting area, and great bathroom with free standing bath and shower cubicle. Outside we… Read more
Audley Travel recommended Kariega Game Reserve for our group of eight friends. This was my first Safari and it’s going to be a very hard one to beat. We stayed in the Ukhozi Lodge. Our accommodation was a semi detached log cabin. We had a huge bed a, lovely sitting area, and great bathroom with free standing bath and shower cubicle. Outside we had a great decked area with plunge pool. The cabin had fabulous views down the hillside looking over the reserve. Giraffes, rhinos and many types of antelope in our back garden. All guests shared the main Ukhozi Lodge, where we sat down to dine or relax with a glass of wine or what ever you fancied, it was all inclusive. No over crowding probably no more than twenty- thirty guests. Food was delicious and abundant. Our group was allocated Nic as our guide for the four days of our stay. This included two drives a day. We would meet at 5.30am and again at 4.00pm He was brilliant, each drive was like a new adventure and we couldn’t wait to go out with him. I’m not going to give too much information as I think it will spoil your own experience, but we loved it and we weren’t disappointed Tip- take appropriate clothing, it’s cold in the mornings and very warm in the afternoons Overall this was one of the best experiences of my life Thank you to all the team at Kariega Game Reserve Read less
Image of the Tripadvisor rating Elegance Meets Adventure: Girls’ Trip at Ukhozi Lodge

Feb 20, 2026 Kinga K

Our stay at Ukhozi Lodge was the ultimate luxury girls’ trip — truly unforgettable! The stunning views, serene atmosphere, and impeccable hospitality made every moment special. Megan, our driver and guide, was exceptional — her knowledge, passion, and warm personality made every game drive exciting and memorable. From elephants to lions, each… Read more
Our stay at Ukhozi Lodge was the ultimate luxury girls’ trip — truly unforgettable! The stunning views, serene atmosphere, and impeccable hospitality made every moment special. Megan, our driver and guide, was exceptional — her knowledge, passion, and warm personality made every game drive exciting and memorable. From elephants to lions, each safari felt like a private, once-in-a-lifetime experience. The lodge itself is beautiful and luxurious, with cozy, elegant rooms and relaxing common areas perfect for unwinding with friends. The meals were exquisite, and the staff went above and beyond to make us feel pampered. Thank you to the entire team for creating such wonderful memories. We can’t wait to return for another luxurious girls’ adventure! 🌿🦒💖 Read less
Image of the Tripadvisor rating Peace and luxury. Oh, and plenty of great sightings too - although never guaranteed

Feb 8, 2026 JupitusWilson Edenbridge, United Kingdom

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… Read more
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. Read less
Image of the Tripadvisor rating Safari Stay

Sep 18, 2025 Peter B Mellor, United Kingdom

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