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 Hlosi Lodge

    Amakhala Hlosi Lodge

    Rates from R5 920.00 per person

    Experience the ultimate Eastern Cape safari at Hlosi Game Lodge in the Amakhala Game Reserve. This upmarket safari lodge seamlessly blends authentic African hospitality with luxurious amenities.

    Indulge in thrilling game drives guided by experienced rangers, and immerse yourself in breathtaking landscapes—the perfect destination for a romantic bush safari escape or a delightful family getaway.

  • Kwandwe Ecca Lodge

    Kwandwe Ecca Lodge

    Rates from R15 200.00 per person

    Kwandwe Ecca Lodge, nestled amidst lush vegetation, offers a mesmerising panorama of a verdant valley and towering shale cliffs. With its harmonious fusion of architecture and nature, Ecca Lodge provides a truly exclusive experience.

    Delight your palate, unwind in inviting spaces, and explore unique treasures in this epitome of refined luxury; it's the perfect escape for experiencing nature's beauty.

  • 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.

  • Amakhala Leeuwenbosch Country House

    Amakhala Leeuwenbosch Country House

    Rates from R3 830.00 per person

    Leeuwenbosch Country House and Amakhala Game Reserve offer an enchanting experience. Nestled in the beautiful Amakhala Game Reserve, the colonial-style retreat of Leeuwenbosch Country House provides exceptional guesthouse accommodation surrounded by indigenous gardens.

    Explore the reserve's abundant wildlife on an unforgettable safari, immersing yourself in the captivating beauty of this remarkable destination.

  • 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.

  • Kariega River Lodge

    Kariega River Lodge

    Rates from R9 200.00 per person

    Experience the magic of the Eastern Cape Wilderness at Kariega River Lodge. Nestled along the serene banks of the Bushman's River, this enchanting destination offers tranquillity and luxury.

    Immerse yourself in the captivating beauty of the reserve, embark on thrilling game drives, and indulge in exquisite culinary delights while enjoying panoramic views of the river and wilderness.

  • Amakhala Bukela Lodge

    Amakhala Bukela Lodge

    Rates from R6 750.00 per person

    The four safari suites at Amakhala Bukela Lodge offer an exclusive game viewing experience which, combined with luxurious, secluded accommodation and variety of dining options, creates a remarkable, private retreat in which to regenerate body and mind.

    The "Big Five" Amakhala Game Reserve in Sout Afruca offers up exceptional wildlife sightings year round.