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African Safaris and Tours
Cape Town Game Reserves
A Luxurious Safari Experience With A Difference Awaits At These Game Reserves Near Cape Town
A unique and luxurious experience for safari lovers looking for a wildlife experience close to Cape Town. These private game reserve options, large and small, are for those who are limited on time and are only staying within the Western Cape region of South Africa, a collection of wildlife and game reserves that offer up a fantastic wildlife conservation experience all within a few hours' drive northwest and west of Cape Town.
From the desert plains of Tankwa Karoo National Park and the lush wetlands of De Hoop Nature Reserve to the "Big 5" tours at Sanbona Wildlife Reserve near Cape Town, this surprising corner of South Africa has something for every safari-goer.
With magnificent Karoo landscapes as the backdrop, these game reserves near Cape Town offer guests the chance to spot the "Big 5" (elephants, rhinos, lions, Cape buffalo and leopards) as well as plains game, including springbok, giraffe, riverine rabbit, red hartebeest, wildebeest zebra, and hartebeests to name just a few. Not all game reserves offer the "Big Five"; a few will offer up at least three of them, and some even offer whale watching.
Birdlife in these areas is particularly interesting to birders as quite a few species are found nowhere else on the planet, a fantastic destination for licking off lists.
All private game reserves near Cape Town offer a malaria-free experience, making them the perfect destinations for families, those that are pregnant and those that simply do not want to be anywhere near female Anopheles mosquitos.
Accommodation is varied and luxurious, with options to suit all budgets and styles. Whether you are looking for a small and intimate luxury lodge or a more rustic tented camp with private views out over the Surrounding Karoo, there is something to suit everyone in our below portfolio of game reserves near Cape Town.
If you are looking for a "Big 5", a Karoo experience or safaris near cape town all within an easy drive of the Cape Peninsula, look no further than our selection of only the best options below.
With its beautiful landscapes, unique flora and exceptional wildlife sightings, the wildlife and game reserves will undoubtedly leave one with lasting memories of their time spent in this magnificent part of South Africa. The portfolio below is not suited to a day trip but more for a least one night in the reserves themselves.
Private Wildlife And Game Reserves Close To Cape Town
Grootbos Forest Lodge
Rates form part of a safari itinerary
Grootbos Forest Lodge is a tranquil retreat nestled in the heart of the Grootbos Game Reserve. Surrounded by a 100-year-old milkwood forest and breathtaking views out over the reserve, the Atlantic Ocean and Walker Bay. Whether you are looking for an escape from the city life of Cape Town or just a romantic weekend away with your special someone, Forest Lodge is the perfect getaway. A luxurious lodge that offers a tranquil and intimate atmosphere to guests seeking an escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
Grootbos Villa
Rates form part of a safari itinerary
Grootbos Villa 1 and Villa 2 offer a unique and luxurious experience for the discerning traveller looking for an elegant and private getaway not far from Cape Town. Perfect for families or a small group of close friends, these two villas are positioned in a secluded and private setting. The unsurpassed quality of service complements this luxurious home-away-from-home atmosphere. With your own personal chef, butler and nature guide to attend to your every need, you can enjoy your safari at your own pace, surrounded by some of the Western Cape's most beautiful scenery.
Bushmans Kloof Koro Lodge
Rates form part of a safari itinerary
Bushmans Kloof Koro Lodge is a luxurious villa getaway nestled in the stunning Cederberg Mountains of the Western Cape of South Africa—the perfect safari lodge and destination for those looking for the utmost in privacy and luxury. With awe-inspiring views of the Cederberg Mountains and a stunning array of outdoor activities, one will be left with no doubt that Koro Lodge is one of the most exquisite options in South Africa. Sleeping a maximum of six people, Koro is perfect for families or a small group of close friends. An unforgettable Cape Town getaway with modern amenities and warm hospitality, all set against the backdrop of jaw-dropping natural scenery.
Bushmans Kloof Lodge
Rates form part of a safari itinerary
Escape to Bushmans Kloof Lodge and experience the luxury of a Relais & Chateaux lodge in an incredible mountainous landscape surrounded by fynbos in every direction. Located 270 kilometres or two and a half hours drive from Cape Town, this luxurious retreat offers guests over 130 Bushman rock art sites to explore, nature drives, walking trails, and so much more. In addition to its luxurious amenities, Bushmans Kloof Lodge is also committed to conservation and sustainability. The reserve is home to over 130 species of birds and 35 species of mammals, including rare and endangered species such as the Cape mountain zebra and the riverine rabbit.
Bartholomeus Klip Farmhouse
Rates form part of a safari itinerary
Nestled in the rolling hills of South Africa's Western Cape, Bartholomeus Klip Farmhouse, not more than 90 minutes from Cape Town, is a serene and one-of-a-kind destination for travellers seeking an escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. With only five rooms, guests will find peace and relaxation on this private estate nestled between a working wheat and sheep farm and a private nature reserve surrounded by stunning mountain views. Attractions include horseback riding, game viewing, bird watching, or simply enjoying breathtaking sunsets over dinner; Bartholomeus Klip Farmhouse is genuinely something special.
Sanbona Tilney Manor
Rates form part of a safari itinerary
Sanbona Tilney Manor is the perfect getaway destination for couples, romantics, honeymooners or a family group looking to escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Nestled far away from humanity in a remote corner of the 54,000-ha Sanbona Game Reserve, Tilney Manor offers exclusive accommodation for no more than twelve guests at any one time. "Big 5" game drives in the Great Karoo region, all within a few hour's drive of Cape Town. With its tranquil setting, exquisite views and world-class amenities, Sanbona Tilney Manor is an ideal place to relax and enjoy quality time with your special someone.
Grootbos Garden Lodge
Rates form part of a safari itinerary
Grootbos Garden Lodge is a luxurious and eco-friendly lodge located in the Grootbos Game Reserve in the Western Cape Province with 2.5 hours from Cape Town. Garden Lodge offers visitors an exclusive, serene escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life surrounded by exceptional beauty, fynbos and vistas. Lodge facilities include a swimming pool, spa treatments, nature drives and whale spotting in Walker Bay, with many more options available. Perfect for families, couples, small groups of friends and honeymooners alike.
Sanbona Dwyka Tented Lodge
Rates form part of a safari itinerary
Experience the ultimate luxury tented safari suite experience with a few nights at Sanbona Dwyka Tented Lodge. Nestled within the breathtakingly beautiful "Big 5" "Sanbona Game Reserve, this unique accommodation offers nine large tented suites that provide all the comforts that one would expect and more when on safari. Enjoy breathtaking views from each suite's private balcony, indulge in exquisite cuisine prepared by experienced chefs, and go on safari game drives to explore the incredible wildlife of the surrounding Karoo, all of this within a few hours drive of Cape Town.
Sanbona Gondwana Family Lodge
Rates form part of a safari itinerary
Sanbona Gondwana Family Lodge is a unique wildlife experience in the breathtaking and private "Big 5" Sanbona Game Reserve, only three hours from Cape Town. Gondwana Family Lodge offers twelve beautifully appointed safari suites designed for families, friends and small groups. Whether you are looking for an escape with your family or want to explore the beauty of the Karoo wilderness, the Sanbona wildlife Reserve provides everything you will need for a memorable safari!
Map of Lodges in and around the Game Reserves near Cape Town
Cape Town Travel Topics
Top 10 Day Trips In Cape Town
Cape Town, a jewel at the tip of Africa, is a city brimming with an eclectic mix of landscapes, history, and culture that beckons travellers from around the globe. It's a place where the rugged mountains meet the endless ocean in an explosion of natural beauty, making it not just a destination but an experience. Each destination has been carefully selected not only for its unique beauty and charm but also for the story it tells—a story that adds another layer to Cape Town's rich tapestry. In our latest blog post titled "Top 10 Day Trips in Cape Town," we're about to take you on a journey beyond the well-trodden paths of Table Mountain and Robben Island to discover hidden gems that offer unforgettable experiences. Embarking on these day trips will allow you to explore stunning vineyards that seem to stretch into eternity, beaches with penguin colonies that look almost too whimsical to be real, and quaint towns whose cobblestone streets whisper tales of days gone by.
10 Best Hotels In The Cape Winelands
Nestled amidst the rolling vineyards and majestic mountains of South Africa's Western Cape, the Cape Winelands region is a picturesque haven for wine lovers and travelers seeking tranquility and beauty. With its rich history, splendid architecture, and world-renowned wines, this enchanting locale offers more than just exquisite tastings. For those planning an unforgettable getaway in this serene landscape, choosing the perfect place to stay is paramount. Our curated list of the top 10 hotels in the Cape Winelands promises to guide you to accommodations where stunning views meet exceptional service, ensuring your visit is nothing short of magical.
Unveiling the Charm of Abalone Guest Lodge: A Comprehensive Review
Welcome to Abalone Guest Lodge, a hidden gem nestled in the heart of Hermanus, renowned for its breathtaking sea views, luxurious accommodations, and prime whale-watching opportunities. This comprehensive review explores whether the lodge lives up to its reputation, offering an in-depth look at its amenities, services, and overall guest experience. Dive in to discover if Abalone Guest Lodge truly is the pearl of Hermanus's hospitality scene.
Cape Town Sightseeing Bus
Explore the stunning city of Cape Town in a budget-friendly and time-efficient way - The City Sightseer Bus. This double-decker 'topless' red bus offers travellers several routes to take in all the attractions, including Blue Route from the City to Hout Bay, Red Route for Table Mountain Cable Car and Purple Route through Constantia Vineyards. With the guided tour commentated in 15 different languages, this is a great day out for both kids and adults alike!
Helicopter Flight over Cape Town
Experience the beauty of Cape Town from a whole new perspective with an amazing Helicopter Flight over the city! Get ready to take off and explore the stunning coastline, Table Mountain, Camps Bay Beach and more - all while taking in spectacular views that can only be seen from above. Soar through the skies on a 12-13 minute flight or opt for one of the longer flights available to Hout Bay, Cape Point or even out to the Cape Winelands.
Constantia Valley Wine Route
The Constantia Valley Wine Route is a stunning destination for wine lovers in South Africa. It offers an array of estates, each with its own special selection of wines and unique experiences to enjoy. From the upgraded wine-tasting venue at Uitkyk Estate to Klein Constantia's "Beyond Restaurant", there are plenty of opportunities to sample some excellent local vintages. For those looking for something special, Groot Constantia is home to Cape Ruby port and Eagles Nest has partnered with the Western Cape Raptor Research Programme.
Norval Foundation South Africa
With its dynamic atmosphere and captivating art, Norval Foundation in Cape Town offers a unique experience for all ages who appreciate the beauty of art. No matter who you are, the Norval Foundation has something to astound and delight! From spectacular exhibitions to an expansive sculpture garden featuring one-of-a-kind pieces, as well as a selection of educational workshops for kids - it is all here waiting.
Kirstenbosch, Boomslang Tree Canopy Walkway
Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden is one of the most beautiful and diverse gardens in Cape Town. With its sprawling 1,300 acres of land, Kirstenbosch offers a journey of the senses with its vibrant flowers, lush greenery and an array of birdlife. For those looking for a unique experience, take on the Boomslang Tree Canopy Walkway - an elevated walkway that provides stunning views across the gardens.