10 Best Lodges in the Eastern Cape

Key Takeaways

• This guide highlights 10 of the best luxury and family-friendly lodges in the Eastern Cape, plus a bonus pick – all malaria-free, all offering Big Five game viewing, and all ideal building blocks for a tailor-made safari with Uyaphi.com.
• Featured properties span five outstanding private game reserves: Shamwari Private Game Reserve (Long Lee Manor, Eagles Crag, Riverdene, Sindile), Kwandwe Private Game Reserve (Fort House, Ecca Lodge, Great Fish River Lodge, Uplands Homestead), Lalibela Game Reserve (Mark's Camp), Kariega Game Reserve (River Lodge) and, as our bonus lodge, Amakhala Game Reserve (Bush Lodge).
• Each lodge section covers setting, style, the guests it suits best (families, honeymooners, groups), where it sits on the price scale, and typical inclusions such as all meals, twice-daily game drives and selected drinks.
• Uyaphi.com, a Cape Town–based safari specialist since 1999, combines these lodges into bespoke itineraries with flights, transfers, self-drive options and beach add-ons.
• Contact Uyaphi.com for current specials, exact rates in your preferred currency, and personal advice on the best time to visit (the dry winter months of May–September are a favourite for game viewing).

Why Choose the Eastern Cape for Your Safari?

The Eastern Cape offers something increasingly rare in Africa: a malaria-free Big Five safari with world-class lodges, an easy drive or short flight from Port Elizabeth (Gqeberha) and Cape Town. Add in a dramatic coastline just down the road, and it's no surprise this region is a firm favourite with families, honeymooners and international travellers who'd rather skip the anti-malarials.

The reserves featured in this article represent the very best of Eastern Cape safaris:

• Shamwari Private Game Reserve – near Paterson, roughly 45–60 minutes from Port Elizabeth
• Kwandwe Private Game Reserve – north-east of Makhanda (Grahamstown), about 2–2.5 hours from Port Elizabeth
• Lalibela Game Reserve – off the N2 between Port Elizabeth and Makhanda
• Kariega Game Reserve – near Kenton-on-Sea, perfect for bush-and-beach combinations
• Amakhala Game Reserve – about 45 minutes east of Port Elizabeth, in the greater Addo area

All of these lodges operate on an all-inclusive basis (meals plus twice-daily game drives) with experienced rangers who know this terrain intimately. We often recommend the Eastern Cape as an easy add-on to a Cape Town or Garden Route holiday – short flight or drive times and excellent infrastructure make the logistics wonderfully straightforward.

1. Shamwari Long Lee Manor – Heritage Grandeur on the Plains

Long Lee Manor is Shamwari's flagship lodge, about 45–60 minutes by road from Port Elizabeth. Built in 1910 and beautifully restored, this Edwardian manor house delivers gracious colonial-style elegance and five-star service in the heart of one of South Africa's most celebrated Big Five reserves.

• Architecture and ambience: The restored manor, with manicured gardens and a spectacular rim-flow pool with pool bar, looks out over a busy waterhole and the sweeping plains below.
• Room types: 18 rooms and suites in total – Manor House Suites with balconies in the original house, 11 Plains Rooms with private verandas and outdoor showers, 4 interleading Garden Rooms, and one two-bedroom Family Suite with its own lounge and private heated plunge pool. Child policies vary by room type, so we confirm the right fit for your family when quoting.
• Experiences: Twice-daily game drives in open 4x4 vehicles, guided bush walks (16 years and older), the Relaxation Retreat with three treatment rooms, a fitness centre, and visits to Shamwari's Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre and the Born Free big cat sanctuary.
• Best for: Guests who appreciate fine dining, historic décor and a sociable lodge atmosphere. We often pair Long Lee Manor with Cape Town city stays and Winelands tours in 3–4 night packages.

2. Shamwari Eagles Crag Lodge – Secluded Valley Hideaway for Couples

Eagles Crag is one of Shamwari's most exclusive properties – an intimate retreat tucked into a lush valley of cliff faces and riverine bush, where eagles ride the thermals above the rock faces. For honeymooners, this is about as romantic as an Eastern Cape safari gets.

• Design: Just nine glass-fronted suites, each with a private deck and heated plunge pool, plus indoor and outdoor showers. The upper deck's aerial viewing pods offer superb panoramas over the surrounding cliffs.
• Wildlife and activities: Twice-daily game drives in search of the Big Five, photographic opportunities from the valley setting, and a Relaxation Retreat with sauna and steam room for downtime between drives.
• Extra touches: Private dining, starlit deck dinners and personalised sundowners that we can pre-arrange for anniversaries, engagements and other celebrations.
• Contrast with Long Lee Manor: More contemporary, more intimate and adults-oriented (16 years and older), and positioned in a higher price bracket – our top recommendation for couples prioritising privacy and modern design.

3. Shamwari Riverdene Family Lodge – One of the Best Family Safaris in the Eastern Cape

Riverdene is Shamwari's dedicated family lodge, purpose-built for multi-generational trips with fenced lawns, a supervised adventure centre and child-focused programming that keeps young explorers engaged from breakfast to bedtime.

• Layout: Nine interleading rooms, each sleeping a maximum of two adults and one child, so larger families simply book connecting rooms. Every room has a private patio opening onto the gardens.
• Family facilities: Swimming pool with a shallow area for little ones, supervised Kids Club and toddler play area, and the Kids on Safari Adventure Centre with treehouses, a zip line and climbing walls. Children of all ages are welcome.
• Kids' safari activities: The Kids on Safari programme includes visits to Shamwari's Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre and the Born Free big cat sanctuary. Children under four don't join game drives, but childminding can be arranged.
• Typical day: An early-morning game drive, breakfast back at the lodge, supervised kids' activities, lunch, an afternoon rest and a late-afternoon drive (exact times shift with the seasons). It's a rhythm that balances excitement with much-needed downtime.

We often recommend Riverdene for families who want structured children's programming, and we can arrange connecting flights, private transfers and interleading rooms for a stress-free family holiday.

4. Shamwari Sindile – Tented Luxury Overlooking the Bushman's River

Sindile is Shamwari's flagship tented camp, set on a ridge deep in the bush with sweeping views over the Bushman's River and the plains beyond. It's named after a legendary Shamwari leopardess – "Sindile" means "survivor" in isiXhosa – who survived several lion attacks to raise five litters of cubs. For travellers seeking under-canvas romance without sacrificing an ounce of comfort, this is the answer.

• Tented accommodation: Nine free-standing luxury tents elevated above the bush, each with a fireplace, lounge area, air-conditioning and a private heated plunge pool. Glamping at its finest.
• Setting and views: The elevated tents are positioned for privacy and uninterrupted views, with no light pollution to spoil the night sky – perfect for armchair game viewing from your own deck.
• Experiences: Twice-daily game drives, guided walks, exceptional stargazing and spa treatments, with special sundowner stops arranged by your guide.
• Best for: Couples and small groups (a maximum of 18 guests) seeking a contemporary, low-footprint camp rather than a traditional lodge. Families should check the current child policy with us before booking.

5. Kwandwe Fort House – Exclusive-Use Safari Villa for Families & Friends

Fort House sits on the open plains of the 22,000-hectare Kwandwe Private Game Reserve, about 2–2.5 hours' drive from Port Elizabeth. It is booked on an exclusive-use basis only – your own private corner of the African bush.

• Layout: Two master suites and two twin suites (sleeping up to eight), flowing living and dining areas, a wine cellar, study, spa treatment room, private pool, boma and firepit – plus your own ranger, tracker, vehicle and chef.
• Flexibility: With your own game vehicle and guide, drives can be tailored to children's nap times, photographers' golden hours or special interests like birding. No fixed schedules – complete control over your safari.
• Who it suits: Multi-generational families, small groups of friends or milestone celebrations. We coordinate complex travel logistics and special dietary requirements.
• Generous inclusions: All meals, soft drinks, house wines, beers and both local and premium spirits are included – along with Kwandwe's famously uncrowded game viewing, where sightings rarely feel busy.

This is a top-tier choice for travellers who demand total privacy and complete control over their safari.

6. Kwandwe Ecca Lodge – Playful Design and Outstanding Family Suites

Ecca Lodge brings bold, contemporary design to the Eastern Cape, blending an eclectic mix of materials and vibrant interiors with views across a dense valley to an escarpment of steep shale cliffs. It's where design lovers and families find common ground.

• Accommodation: Just six suites, each with a private plunge pool and outdoor shower. Three are Safari Suites for two; the other three are Private Vehicle Suites (formerly the family suites), where children sleep on day beds in the lounge – up to two adults and two children per suite.
• Family focus: Private Vehicle Suites come with a dedicated vehicle, guide and tracker, so your family sets its own pace. The Den keeps children entertained for hours, and the shared lodge pool is perfect for a communal splash.
• Wildlife and activities: Big Five game drives, nature walks and big game walking safaris for adults and older teens.
• Positioning: We often recommend Ecca for design-conscious families who want a stylish, relaxed lodge with superb guiding and plenty for children between drives – typically for 3–4 nights.

7. Kwandwe Great Fish River Lodge – Iconic River Views and Refined Tranquillity

Great Fish River Lodge is perched along the banks of its namesake river, with breathtaking views over the valley and surrounding hills. This is a tranquil retreat for couples and wildlife photographers who value scenery and serenity above all.

• Lodge character: Thatch-and-timber architecture, a large stone fireplace beneath a soaring thatched roof, and expansive viewing decks – classic safari style with understated luxury.
• Suites: Nine thatched suites spread along the river, each with a private plunge pool, floor-to-ceiling glass doors, indoor bath and shower, and an outdoor shower. Children are welcome from 12 years.
• Activities: Twice-daily game drives, guided nature walks and peaceful downtime on the decks, watching kudu and other game come down to drink – especially rewarding during the dry winter months (June–August).
• Best for: Guests prioritising scenery, gourmet dining and sophisticated tranquillity. We often combine Great Fish River Lodge with coastal stays near Kenton-on-Sea.

8. Kwandwe Uplands Homestead – Classic Farmhouse Exclusivity

Uplands Homestead offers something different: a lovingly restored 1905 farmhouse, booked on an exclusive-use basis. Charm over glitz, character over contemporary – this is intimate safari living at its very best.

• Layout: Three en-suite bedrooms sleeping up to six guests, each opening onto a private veranda, with a cosy lounge, dining room, farm-style kitchen, fenced garden and private pool.
• Service: Your stay includes a dedicated ranger, tracker, vehicle and chef, allowing fully tailored safari schedules, child-friendly mealtimes and wonderfully personal service.
• Activities: Private game drives in the Big Five reserve, guided nature walks and relaxed afternoons by the pool. We can add cultural excursions in nearby Makhanda on request.
• Best for: Families and small groups of up to six who want homely comfort, privacy and excellent value compared with larger exclusive-use villas.

9. Lalibela Mark's Camp – Laid-Back Family Favourite

Mark's Camp is the family lodge of the 7,500-hectare Lalibela Game Reserve, off the N2 between Port Elizabeth and Makhanda. This relaxed, welcoming camp delivers an authentic Eastern Cape safari without the ultra-luxury price tag.

• Accommodation: Eight stone-and-thatch chalets – four standard chalets, three family chalets and a two-bedroom family suite with its own lounge – all within a discreetly fenced camp where children can roam safely under supervision.
• Lodge features: Two swimming pools (including a dedicated children's pool), a lounge with fireplace, a viewing deck overlooking a busy waterhole, and an outdoor boma for fireside dinners under the stars.
• Family programming: A full kids' programme, childminding, and family-friendly game drives for children from two years old, with flexible mealtimes.
• Positioning: A solid mid- to upper-range option offering excellent value compared with ultra-luxury lodges. We frequently recommend Mark's Camp for first-time family safaris seeking a convivial, sociable atmosphere.

10. Kariega River Lodge – Riverside Luxury Near the Coast

River Lodge hugs the banks of the Bushman's River in Kariega Game Reserve, close to the seaside village of Kenton-on-Sea. Its prime position makes it ideal for travellers who want bush and beach in one itinerary.

• Style and setting: Ten thatched, air-conditioned suites and a main deck that overhangs the river – perfect for birdwatching and soaking up the changing light on the water.
• Beyond game drives: River cruises, canoeing and fishing, plus an optional boat trip down the river to the beaches of Kenton-on-Sea.
• Who it suits: Couples and families with children aged 10 and older who appreciate a mature, tranquil atmosphere with a strong focus on cuisine and experienced rangers.
• Integration: We often use River Lodge in itineraries that include the Garden Route or the Eastern Cape coastline, arranging seamless transfers between lodges and nearby beach hotels.

Bonus Lodge: Amakhala Bush Lodge – Intimate Tented Suites with Private Plunge Pools

Bush Lodge lies within Amakhala Game Reserve, about 45 minutes east of Port Elizabeth in the greater Addo area. This intimate five-star lodge sits at the top of an open valley, with just eight tented suites overlooking a waterhole.

• Luxury tents: Six king/twin tents and two family tents, built with thatched roofs, canvas walls and wooden floors. Each has a private viewing deck and plunge pool, fireplace, large oval bath and alfresco double shower.
• Lodge features: A central lounge, bar and dining area, an elevated outdoor boma and an expansive viewing deck. The relaxed but upscale atmosphere suits couples and honeymooners wanting romance without excessive formality.
• Activities: Two game drives a day in an established Big Five reserve, plus guided walks and river cruises.
• Positioning: We frequently recommend Bush Lodge for guests who want a boutique feel and plunge-pool decks at a competitive price compared with some flagship properties – outstanding value without compromising on the experience.

How Uyaphi.com Helps You Plan the Perfect Eastern Cape Safari

Uyaphi.com has been crafting African safari experiences since 1999 from our base in Cape Town, with in-depth, on-the-ground knowledge of the Eastern Cape's lodges and seasonal nuances. We've visited these properties, been out on the game drives and built relationships with the people who run them.

• Personalised matching: We match travellers to the right lodge or combination based on budget, travel dates and special interests – perhaps Riverdene for the kids plus Eagles Crag for couple time, or Kwandwe Fort House followed by a coastal villa.
• Complete itinerary design: We handle lodges, internal flights, transfers or car hire, and advice on the best time to visit. We know the child age policies at each property and can guide you on what to pack.
• Seamless combinations: The Eastern Cape offers easy extensions to Addo Elephant National Park, Sibuya River Camp on the Kariega River (reached by boat from Kenton-on-Sea), and properties like Camp Figtree, Hlosi Game Lodge and Kuzuko Lodge for varied experiences.

Ready to start planning? Contact Uyaphi.com via our enquiry form, email or phone for a bespoke quote tailored to your Eastern Cape trip. Skip the generic packages – let us craft something truly remarkable.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to visit the Eastern Cape for a safari?

Animals are active year-round, but many guests favour the dry winter months (May–September), when vegetation thins and wildlife gathers around water. Days are mild and comfortable for open-vehicle drives, though early mornings can be properly cold. Summer (October–March) brings greener landscapes, excellent birding and warmer weather that suits families on school holidays, although midday temperatures can climb past 30°C. We help guests choose dates based on climate preferences, wildlife priorities and crowd levels.

How many nights should I spend at one of these lodges?

We recommend a minimum of three nights at a single lodge, allowing for four to six game drives plus relaxation time. Many of our itineraries include four to six safari nights split between two properties – for example, three nights at Shamwari followed by three at Kwandwe – for variety in landscapes and guiding styles. For exclusive-use villas like Fort House or Uplands Homestead, four to five nights works beautifully for families who want to settle in fully.

Are these Eastern Cape reserves really malaria-free?

Yes. The Eastern Cape lies outside South Africa's malaria areas, so Shamwari, Kwandwe, Lalibela, Kariega and Amakhala are all malaria-free – a significant advantage for families and travellers who prefer to avoid prophylactics. We always recommend consulting your doctor or travel clinic before departure, as individual medical advice may vary.

What is typically included in the rates at these lodges?

Most lodges operate on an all-inclusive basis: accommodation, three meals a day, teas and snacks, two game drives daily, and often selected drinks (local wines, beers and soft drinks). Extras typically include premium imported drinks, spa treatments, conservation levies (payable separately at some reserves) and gratuities. We provide a detailed breakdown of inclusions and exclusions at quotation stage – no surprises on arrival.

Can I combine an Eastern Cape safari with Cape Town or the Garden Route?

Absolutely – it's one of our most popular combinations. Direct flights between Cape Town and Port Elizabeth take under 90 minutes, and the scenic Garden Route makes a superb self-drive alternative. A typical itinerary might include three nights in Cape Town and two in the Winelands, followed by three or four nights at Long Lee Manor, Kariega Main Lodge or Amakhala Bush Lodge. We can also add beach time at Plettenberg Bay, Wilderness or Kenton-on-Sea to create a complete South Africa holiday tailored to you.