Kariega
Main Lodge

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Main Lodge is a 4-star lodge at Kariega Game Reserve and offers a relaxed African atmosphere is the bush. Main Lodge is a family friendly lodge and is the ideal safari lodge for families as well as couples and groups of friends. Kariega Main Lodge is made up of air conditioned log chalets with large private viewing decks surrounding the main lodge. The lodge nestled in the landscapes of the bush creating a natural environment in the game reserve. At the lodge guests can enjoy the viewing decks, large swimming pool, restaurant and traditional outdoor Boma.

Kariega Game Reserve is a family-owned private game reserve located in the Eastern Cape. The game reserve covers 5260 hectares of African wilderness and spans across five different eco-systems. Kariega Game Reserve is ranked as one of the best Eastern Cape Safari destinations and offers exceptional game viewing all year round and is set between two beautiful rivers, the Kariega and Bushman’s rivers. The diverse landscape and lush environment make the reserve a haven for varied flora and wildlife species. The rivers at Kariega Game Reserve connect the rolling African landscapes to the ocean making it ideal for water-based wildlife spotting, cruises, and adventure activities. Lead by energetic game rangers with an incredible passion for the African wild, daily game drives at Kariega River Lodge are taken in specialized 8-seater 4×4 safari vehicles. With the assistance of your expert ranger, you will enjoy close-up sightings of the Big 5 (lion, elephant, rhino, buffalo and leopard) as well as hippo, hyena, giraffe, zebra, eland, kudu, and fish eagles. This remarkable malaria-free reserve also offers safari cruises and kayaking excursions. Witnessing the incredible birdlife along the riverbeds is nothing short of magnificent on this unique safari experience. Kariega offers a selection of 4-star lodges as well as the 5-star lodges.

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Wildlife

Kariega is a Big-5 reserve and is home to the lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo and rhino.
Other wildlife includes zebra, giraffe, hippo, a variety of antelope species, lynx, hyena, jackal, and more.
A large bird colony is particularly draw to the rivers.
Leopard sightings are rare in any Eastern Cape game reserve.

Game Drives

Game drives take place twice a day in the early mornings and afternoons for a duration of 3-4 hours.
Game drives are led by an experienced guide.
Night drives and guided bush walk are permitted.
River cruises are available at selected lodges.
8-seater vehicles.

Activities & Facilities

Game drives
Guided bushwalks
Stargazing
Birdwatching
River cruises
Swimming Pool
Restaurant
Open-air African Boma
Bar & lounge
Viewing deck
Kids centre
Children’s program

Highlights

Family-friendly lodge nestled in a prime position the heart of the reserve.
Stunning views of the Kariega River valley from the main lodge and accommodation.
Outdoor dinning experiences in the traditional open-air African Boma
Accommodation is offered in 24 log chalets, with options for 1, 2, and 3 bedrooms.
Each chalet includes a spacious lounge, bedrooms, bathrooms, and a private viewing deck.
Children’s activities take place between 11:00 – 14:00 with a dedicated coordinator.
Exciting Big-5 game drives with close up sightings.

Location

Located in the Eastern Cape, along South Africa’s east coast.

Getting There

The closest commercial airport is Port Elizabeth (PLZ).
Kariega Game Reserve is a 80 minute drive from Port Elizabeth.
Flight time from Cape Town to Port Elizabeth: 1 hour 10 minutes.
Flight time from Johannesburg to Port Elizabeth: 1 hour 35 minutes.

Child Policy

Kariega Main Lodge welcomes children of all ages.
Children 0 – 3 years stay free of charge.
Children 3 – 12 years pay 50% of the adult rates.
3rd Person sharing in 2/3 bedroomed chalet pays sharing rate.
For children under 5 years it is the guide’s discretion as to whether they can be taken to sightings on the game drives of the more dangerous “Big-5” animals, for safety reasons.

Inclusions & Exclusions

Included: 2 x Game drives per day, guided bushwalks (age restricted), and all meals.
Excluded: Drinks, conservation levies, airport transfers, and anything of personal nature.

Special Offers

Stay 3 nights and save 15% on the accommodation (valid 01 May to 31 July)
SA resident rates are bookable 01 May to August only.

Rates

The updated rates are displayed for each room category below.
Rates are charged per person, per night.
Single supplement of 50% applicable.
Rates displayed are valid until 10 January 2027.

Seasons

Peak season: 18 December – 10 January & 01 February – 28 February
High season: 11 January – 30 April & 01 September – 19 December
Low season: 01 May – 31 August

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Chalets

24 Log chalets, with large private viewing decks (some with private pools) offering privacy and stunning views of the Kariega river valley. All the log chalets Read moreare air conditioned (bedrooms only) with en-suite bedrooms.1, 2 and 3 bedroom options are available. Only dedicated 3-bedroom units have private pools. Read Less