Kwandwe Private Game Reserve lies in the heart of South Africa’s malaria-free Eastern Cape near Grahamstown. 22,000 hectares (54,400 acres) of farmland in the Great Fish River region have been restored and restocked with African wildlife.

Today, thousands of animals including lion, black and white rhino, buffalo and elephant roam this diverse and fascinating reserve.

Kwandwe, meaning 'Place of the Blue Crane' in Xhosa, is also home to a population of these rare, highly endangered birds (the blue crane is South Africa's national bird).

Experienced rangers and Xhosa trackers lead guests on interpretive, twice-daily game-drives in open 4x4 safari vehicles. Morning game drives depart before breakfast, as dawn is breaking over the reserve. Afternoon drives depart late afternoon, and include a sundowner stop in a scenic location. Guests return to the lodge with the aid of a spot-light to search out elusive nocturnal creatures such as porcupine, aardvark or even aardwolf.

Inbetween game drives, guided bush walks in Kwandwe's pristine wilderness can also be arranged, bringing you face-to-face with wild Africa at its best.

There are 4 lodges on the Kwandwe Reserve, and each is unique in its character. As well as the game drives and bush walks, the rates are fully inclusive of all meals and local drinks.  If you would like us to include a safari in one of these outstanding lodges as part of your trip to South Africa, please click here.  

Alternatively if you are only looking to book just a safari you can either browse the different lodges in the Kwandwe Game Reserve below and book directly through this site, or ask us to recommend a lodge based on your budget.