Positioned in a secluded corner of Amakhala Game Reserve in the malaria-free Eastern Cape of South Africa, lies 4 star rated HillsNek Safari Camp. This intimate family-run lodge, set on the banks of the Bushman’s River with a breath-taking vista of rolling African plains, offers an unprecedented safari experience where privacy and personalized attention is the hallmark of every stay. The main lodge and four luxury safari tents are elevated on expansive wooden decks that command panoramic views of the open plains. Discreetly positioned to ensure privacy and tranquillity, all are complete with an en-suite bathroom and romantic outside shower.
The Amakhala Game Reserve is a malaria-free, private game reserve spanning over 8500 hectares of African landscape in the Eastern Cape. The family-run game reserve is home to a variety of lodges and is known for its magnificent fauna, breath-taking views, and unforgettable wildlife encounters. With preservation of the natural environment and conservation of wildlife high on their priority list, Amakhala’s game rangers are experts in their field and incredibly passionate about providing quality safari experiences to all guests. Their knowledge and enthusiasm for nature shine through as they guide, educate, and entertain you through Big 5 territory. The reserve hosts five of South Africa’s eight biomes making it ideal for a diverse selection of wildlife and indigenous flora. Besides lion, leopard, elephant, rhino, and buffalo, you will also see an abundance of other wildlife such as giraffe, cheetah, zebra, wildebeest, and various antelope species. The Bushman’s River runs through the reserve attracting a bright variety of remarkable bird species. Here, you can enjoy cruises along the Bushman’s River on a boat safari, viewing birds and wildlife from the water.
Gallery
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.
Wildlife
- Amakhala is a Big-5 reserve and is home to the lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo and rhino.
- Other wildlife includes zebra, giraffe, hippo, cheetah, hyena a variety of antelope species and more.
- A large bird colony is found in the reserve.
- Leopard sightings are rare in any Eastern Cape game reserve.
Activities & Facilities
- Game drives
- Guided bushwalks
- Stargazing
- Birdwatching
- Swimming Pool
- Restaurant
- Viewing deck
- Bar & lounge
Highlights
- Unique and intimate tented safari lodge.
- Set along the Bushman’s River, offering scenic views of the reserve’s landscapes.
- Renowned for its welcoming atmosphere and attentive service.
- The main lodge features a raised deck with a pool and lounge areas overlooking the reserve.
- 4 Luxury safari tents on wooden decks with panoramic plains views.
- A two-bedroom tented suite is available for families.
- Exciting Big-5 game drives.
Location
- Located in the Eastern Cape, along South Africa’s east coast.
Getting There
- The closest commercial airport is Port Elizabeth (PLZ).
- Amakhala Game Reserve is a 75 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
- HillsNek Safari Lodge welcomes children from 9 years.
- Children 9 – 11 years pay 50% of adult rate.
Special Offers
- Enjoy one free night with our Pay 2 Stay 3 offer.
- Special offers are valid 01 May – 31 August.
- SA resident rates are available all year round.
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 2026.
Inclusions & Exclusions
- Included: 2 x Game drives per day, all meals, soft drinks and selected alcoholic beverages.
- Excluded: Beverages, guided walks, conservation levies, airport transfers, and anything of personal nature.
Seasons
- Festive season: 20 December – 10 January
- Peak season: 01 August – 19 December
- High season: 11 January – 30 April
- Low season: 01 May – 31 August

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Visiting such a diverse country necessitates some expertise to determine which area, lodge and transport will suit you best. Whether you are a family, couple or traveling solo, we’ll guide you to the perfect place for an incredible safari experience
Safari Tent
Three individual luxury canvas safari tents set on expansive wrap around wooden decks Read more with panoramic views. All three tents are linked to the main lodge by raised wooden walkways. The tents are complete with an en-suite bathroom & outside shower. Read Less
| Festive season | $ 735per person, per night |
|---|---|
| Peak Season | $ 642per person, per night |
| High Season | $ 612per person, per night |
| Low Season | $ 489per person, per night |
Family Tent
This 2-bedroomed family unit is perfect for a family of four. The unit consists of Read more a main bedroom with king size bed and a smaller 2nd bedroom with a double fold-out bed with a Interleading door, and a shared bathroom. Read Less
| Festive season | $ 735per person, per night |
|---|---|
| Peak Season | $ 642per person, per night |
| High Season | $ 612per person, per night |
| Low Season | $ 489per person, per night |
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