Samara Game Reserve Review

Samara Game Reserve Review

About three hours drive northwest of Addo Elephant Park (see Tuesday's blog) lies a different country. If Addo enjoys a lush and verdant environment, Samara Game Reserve is the opposite. Its semi-desert environment is more akin to Namibia. Here we are in the middle of the Great Karoo near the historic farming town of Graaff Reinet.

Over a dozen years ago, a far-sighted British investor started buying up farms, lots of them. I don't know whether he has stopped, but at 70,000 acres, this private reserve is an impressive spread. Part of the reason for buying up so much agricultural land and then letting it return to nature was to reintroduce the traditional migration route of many mammals. Up until the end of the nineteenth century, literally, millions of springbok would traverse this area. Indeed, part of the great scheme is to connect Samara and other private reserves with the Camdeboo and Mountain Zebra National Parks to recreate some of that migratory path.

The adjectives of haunting beauty and serenity are apt to describe the character of this experience. You do not come here to see an abundance of wildlife but to relax in a pristine natural environment with a clarity of light and freshness of air few of us encounter in our daily lives. The pleasure here is to sit on the verandah of one of the several old, restored farmhouses and listen to absolutely nothing in this great vastness. You have a choice of accommodation: the old farmhouse Karoo Lodge, the slightly more contemporary Manor House and the far-removed Mountain Retreat. The latter two are exclusive use accommodation, but all share a similar ambience and character.

The game drives here are relaxed affairs dictated by your time and interest. It is worth mentioning that Samara reintroduced cheetah to an area where it had been all but wiped out 125 years ago, and this is an example of the great importance attached to conservation and the environment. You are not restricted to the vehicle with walking and night walks as well as a variety of different scenic drives. One of the most impressive sights is driving up to certain vantage points and the plains of Camdeboo spread out before you. It is an entirely visceral experience where you will perhaps wander into a safari of the mind

There is a subdued luxury to this place. The luxury of time and space in a pristine natural environment. There are all the bells and whistles of course: excellent food, silver service, spa treatments, and special programmes for children. But you will appreciate this magical place more like a retreat and thank the farsighted owners for sharing it with us for generations to come.

Samara Game Reserve
Samara Game Reserve
Samara Game Reserve
Samara Game Reserve
Samara Game Reserve
Travel To The Eastern Cape
Map Of Eastern Cape Safari Lodges And Boutique Hotels
Popular Accommodation Options In The Eastern Cape

  • Amakhala Hillsnek Lodge

    Amakhala Hillsnek Lodge

    Rates from R6 080.00 per person

    Hillsnek Lodge is a secluded and picturesque safari retreat in the Amakhala Game Reserve. Surrounded by stunning natural beauty, this exclusive safari lodge offers a private and intimate experience for guests to immerse themselves in the tranquillity of the African wilderness.

    Guests can create cherished memories that will last a lifetime with luxurious accommodations, attentive service, and various activities, including unforgettable safari adventures.

  • Shamwari Bayethe Tented Lodge

    Shamwari Bayethe Tented Lodge

    Rates from R13 110.00 per person

    Shamwari Bayethe Tented Lodge is an oasis of luxury nestled in the heart of the African bush. Each of its nine tented suites offers an intimate connection with nature without compromising comfort.

    Bask in the glow of the African sun by your private plunge pool, or enjoy the thrill of a game drive exploring the abundant wildlife. As the day ends, gather around the boma for a unique dining experience under the stars.

  • Shamwari Sarili Lodge

    Shamwari Sarili Lodge

    Rates from R160 170.00 exclusive use

    Sarili Private Lodge, named after revered Xhosa Chief Sarili, offers a luxurious haven above the tranquil Bushman's River. With breathtaking views of the grassy plains, it provides an unforgettable safari experience in a malaria-free environment.

    Shamwari Sarili Lodge is a secluded and tranquil relaxation retreat, perfect for families, groups, and friends seeking a blend of wilderness and luxury.

  • Kariega Settlers Drift

    Kariega Settlers Drift

    Rates from R14 600.00 per person

    Experience Settlers Drift, a luxurious 5-star safari lodge nestled in the heart of the Kariega Game Reserve. With elegantly spacious tented suites and breathtaking panoramic views, this exclusive haven offers the ultimate blend of luxury and tranquillity.

    Escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and immerse yourself in the untamed beauty of Africa's wildlife. Surrender to the allure of the African wilderness and let nature's captivating beauty envelop your senses at Kariega Settlers Drift.

  • Amakhala Safari Lodge

    Amakhala Safari Lodge

    Rates from R6 080.00 per person

    Amakhala Safari Lodge, situated in the scenic Amakhala Game Reserve, is a breathtaking sanctuary that offers an immersive and holistic safari experience. With its impeccable design and meticulous attention to detail, this safari lodge provides a perfect haven for rejuvenating your soul and immersing yourself in the magnificent wildlife of the Eastern Cape.

    From the air-conditioned safari huts to the serene surroundings, every aspect of this retreat is crafted to ensure an unforgettable stay.

  • Kwandwe Uplands House

    Kwandwe Uplands House

    Rates from R63 600.00 exclusive use

    Experience the epitome of luxury amidst the untamed beauty of Africa at Kwandwe Uplands House. Nestled in the rugged hills of Kwandwe Private Game Reserve, this captivating retreat offers refined interiors, picturesque surroundings, and breathtaking views.

    With elegant touches and a comforting warmth, Uplands House is the perfect blend of sophistication and wilderness.

  • Kariega Homestead

    Kariega Homestead

    Rates from R64 000.00 exclusive use

    Experience unbeatable privacy, exceptional service, and unforgettable wildlife encounters at Kariega Homestead. This luxurious exclusive-use lodge offers ultimate comfort, convenience, and tranquillity with dedicated hosts, knowledgeable game rangers, and skilled cooks.

    Enjoy an intimate and personalized experience in this idyllic haven of luxury and natural beauty, perfect for small groups or families.

  • Amakhala Bush Lodge

    Amakhala Bush Lodge

    Rates from R6 750.00 per person

    Experience the majestic wildlife of Amakhala Private Game Reserve at Bush Lodge. Relax on your private deck or take a dip in your private plunge pool while immersing yourself in the beauty of the Eastern Cape and South Africa bushveld.

    Embark on thrilling game drives in open 4x4 safari vehicles and gather around the fire pit in the evening to share stories and witness the stunning sunset over the reserve from this stunning safari lodge.