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Kariega Main Lodge

Kariega Main Lodge

Kariega Game Reserve


Kariega Main Lodge Location Map

Only 80 minutes east of Port Elizabeth, a visit to Kariega Game Reserve is the perfect extension of your trip along South Africa's famous Garden Route. Set high above the spectacular Kariega River Valley, this 11,500 hectare malaria-free reserve is home to game and wildlife such as lion, elephant, leopard, rhino, hippo, giraffe, zebra, eland, wildebeest, waterbuck and a variety of antelope, as well as a myriad of bird species.

For those who want to do more than merely relax and enjoy the idyllic surroundings, there is plenty to keep you busy at Kariega Main Lodge. Everything revolves around the twice-daily safari drives - the close-up encounters with African wildlife are the centre of guests' unforgettable safari holiday. The experienced game rangers will drive you out on safari every morning and afternoon/evening in open game-drive vehicles, traversing the valleys, grassy plains and African bushveld to bring you close to the Big 5 and other game roaming freely in their natural habitat. If you are fortunate, you may witness the lion hunting or feeding, or even the heart-warming social interactions of an elephant herd.

A host of other activities are also offered, including guided bush walks amongst more than 25 species of game and abundant birdlife, fishing, bird watching, canoeing, and river cruises down the Kariega River (subject to water levels). There is also a Wellness Centre where guests are able to enjoy massages, facials, manicures and pedicures in a lovely relaxed atmosphere. For the more energetic there is a very well equipped gym with a beautiful view over the valley.

The accommodation at Kariega Main Lodge consists of one, 2, 3 and 4 bedroom log chalets, making this the perfect destination for groups of friends and families seeking a special safari holiday of a lifetime. Each chalet is decorated in an ethnic style and are very spacious. A number of the chalets have a private pool. There are 21 chalets in total.

The family pub and restaurant, nestled in indigenous bush with commanding views of the reserve, serves tasty traditional South African cuisine, or guests can enjoy the experience of a meal in the open-air boma. To cool off during the heat of the day, dive into the river or relax at the sun-splashed main pool areas.

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Show Rates in
Our standard rates for a 1 Bedroom Log Chalet
DatesPriceBasisTypeNights
11 January 2024 to 30 April 2024 GBP 645 USD 813 ZAR 14,841 EUR 749 per roomContracted Rate1+ nights
1 May 2024 to 31 July 2024 GBP 465 USD 585 ZAR 10,685 EUR 539 per roomContracted 15% Discount - Min 3 Nights3+ nights
1 May 2024 to 31 July 2024 GBP 543 USD 684 ZAR 12,484 EUR 630 per roomContracted Rate1 to 2 nights
1 August 2024 to 31 August 2024 GBP 543 USD 684 ZAR 12,484 EUR 630 per roomContracted Rate1+ nights
1 September 2024 to 19 December 2024 GBP 645 USD 813 ZAR 14,841 EUR 749 per roomContracted Rate1+ nights
20 December 2024 to 10 January 2025 GBP 701 USD 884 ZAR 16,129 EUR 813 per roomContracted Rate2+ nights

Prices are on a per room basis.

Special offers for longer stays or when booked as part of a longer itinerary may apply - details on request.

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Rates Include

All meals; the Conservation and Community Levy; morning and evening game drives/river cruises; guided bush walks and canoeing are included.


Children Policy

Children of any age are welcome. Rates available on request. Children under 6 are not allowed on normal game drives, and children under 16 are not allowed on bush walks. Babysitting services are available.


Bush Walks / Walking Safaris

Children under the age of 16 years are not permitted on guided walks in the reserve. The final decision on whether a guest can join a guided bush walk remains with the guide and lodge manager.


Children under 5 years may go on game drives on the Kariega Reserve where they are able to enjoy rhino, hippo, giraffe, zebra and various antelope species, and are also welcome to join the morning game drive/river cruise combination activity.

Unfortunately, the lodge is unable to take younger children into the more dangerous sightings of lion and elephant, for safety reasons. Babysitting services are available while parents go on these game drives - rates available on request.

The lodge offers a children’s programme, between 11 am and 2 pm.  At this time, your child will meet the dedicated coordinator at the Kids on Safari centre and receive a goodie bag. Children will then enjoy one or more of the following safari activities (weather permitting):

A guided trail within the boundaries of Main Lodge where they will learn more about their beautiful surroundings and the miracles of nature, including plants, insects and animal tracks. The group will have time to ask questions and interact with the ranger. They may be given a fun short test and will each receive a Junior Ranger Certificate.

Learning how to create moulds of animal tracks using plaster of Paris. These can serve as great souvenirs from their time at Kariega.

Target practise shooting with a traditional "kettie" (a safe y-shaped slingshot) and other bushcraft and wildlife survival skills (depending on the age of the group).

Arts and crafts, including colouring and making animal masks.

Creating "Bushman paintings".

Environmental education using natural items from the bush including ostrich eggs, porcupine quills, skulls etc.

Completing the activities in the Kids on Safari booklet.

Children over 5 are also allowed on the adult game drives. In addition, there is also a playroom with wildlife DVDs, books, toys, puzzles, colouring in books, play dough, etc. 


All of the holidays we prepare are tailor-made, but this might give you an idea of how Kariega Main Lodge can be included in you own dream holiday.

Whales, Wine and Wildlife

Featured Accommodation

Southern Sun The Cullinan
The Cullinan
Cape Town
Oude Werf Hotel
Oude Werf Hotel
The Cape Winelands
Abalone Guest Lodge
Abalone Guest Lodge
Hermanus
The Rex Hotel
The Rex Hotel
The Garden Route
Kariega Main Lodge
Kariega Main Lodge
Kariega Game Reserve

Destination: South Africa.

A winning holiday which, if you travel during July through to October/early November, will give you the opportunity to spot whales from the shore or from a boat-based trip out into the ocean - or even from the comfort of your bed! Add onto this wine-tasting and Big 5 wildlife game drives and you will wonder why you haven't done this years ago!

This is a 12 night itinerary including Cape Town, The Cape Winelands, Hermanus, The Garden Route and Kariega Game Reserve.

Based on 4 Star Accommodation:

  • 3 Nights at Southern Sun The Cullinan
  • 2 Nights at Oude Werf Hotel
  • 2 Nights at Abalone Guest Lodge
  • 3 Nights at The Rex Hotel
  • 2 Nights at Kariega Main Lodge
Price Per Person From

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South Africa Family Adventure

Featured Accommodation

Waterfront Village
Waterfront Village
Cape Town
138 Marine
138 Marine
Hermanus
Knysna Hollow Country Estate
Knysna Hollow
The Garden Route
Kariega Main Lodge
Kariega Main Lodge
Kariega Game Reserve

Destination: South Africa.

A host of world-class destinations are yours to enjoy during this classic family holiday, with endless attractions to keep anyone of any age entertained and amused for days. Beaches, whales, wildlife - it's all jam packed into just 12 malaria-free nights.

This is a 12 night itinerary including Cape Town, Hermanus, The Garden Route and Kariega Game Reserve.

Based on 4 Star Accommodation:

  • 4 Nights at Waterfront Village
  • 2 Nights at 138 Marine
  • 3 Nights at Knysna Hollow Country Estate
  • 3 Nights at Kariega Main Lodge
Price Per Person From

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*Prices are per person and are based on today's exchange rates. Exchange rates are subject to change and are updated daily.

Prices exclude international flights - ask us if you would like to include these.




Guest Rating: 4.7 / 5.0 based on 35 ratings




Start TestimonialThe game drives at Kariega were great with lions and rhinos strolling by our vehicle. Full of amazing experiences! Lovely and peaceful with super views. We arrived in the afternoon and were out on our first game drive at 4pm. Straight into seeing buffalo and rhinos and stopping for a drink in the wilds on our way back. We had a brilliant stay despite the weather turning a bit wet - they provide ponchos. We didn’t expect to get so close to so many animals but elephants appear out of the bushes and you turn a corner to find a giraffe or rhino on the track. The lions strolled by, not really interested in us. Our guide was great, Nikita, and all the guides were respectful to the animals, never more than two cars at a time. The lodge food was hearty and good quality. They all try their best to give you a good experience.End Testimonial

L FOSTER

Start TestimonialWe had a brilliant holiday and all the arrangements made by Travel Butler went like clockwork. Advice and service was excellent. Safari was amazing - the lodges had everything (fabulous views, private, own pool and decking) but not the plushest - but we knew that from the price. Value for money at the lodge was excellent and staff were so friendly and helpful and the animals we saw - fabulous! End Testimonial

N HAIGH

Start TestimonialKariega was AWESOME! We had a perfect stand alone 3 bedroom lodge with fireplace. Could not have been better except if closer to main lodge as it was a bit of a walk. We had the head ranger - Daniel - and he went out of his way to give us a great experience. He offered us special extras since we were staying for 4 nights, including a camp out in the bush and a boat trip to the beach (we did the former but too windy for the latter) - it was awesome. Our own private campsite, bar, chef, dinner and a walking safari - all at no extra cost. We took a Landy to a boat and then hiked for an hour to the (upscale) campsite. Wow. They were great at Kariega - 8 game drives in all and the coffee/cocktail breaks were fantastic. My only small complaint is that the food could have been a bit better (more variety in salads and better lunch and dinner main courses). But we were not there for the food and it was nonetheless fresh and delicious for the most part. Safaris were amazing - saw lions licking fresh kill bloody from their faces. Elephants walked so close to our Landy that they practically brushed up to our arms. We rated it our best vacation...EVER. Thank you.End Testimonial

G REDMOND

Start TestimonialMany thanks for your help in booking our Safari at Kariega. We thoroughly enjoyed our stay at the lodge and really appreciated all the wonderful experiences with the animals at the Safari Park. We took hundreds of photos of the Big Five and the whole trip was well planned and organised. We look forward to contacting you again if future for our travel needs. Also congratulations on being awarded the best tour operator of SATOA awards. End Testimonial

B HUNJAN

Start TestimonialJust a quick note to say a big thank you to both you and Anneli for the great service we got with this holiday. The Kariega Game Reserve was most enjoyable. We were very lucky to get the services of Daneil the head ranger of main lodge, as there was nothing he does not know about animals and he made us very welcome. A terrific effort and once thanks for the great service.End Testimonial

P MCCARTNEY

Start TestimonialKariega Main Lodge was the highlight of our trip. They bent over backwards for the kids, and we highly recommend it.End Testimonial

J MILLER

Start TestimonialI would like to thanks your for the excellent suggestions on where to stay and how to spend our time in South Africa. You have more then exceeded our expectations. We had an unbelieve time and will be going back as soon as we can. We loved each place and the hospitality we received was top class. The one place that really stood out was Kariega. Our experience here was one that will live on in our memery for a long time and our host Doctor was someone who deserves special mention. Once again thanks for your help and time in making our holiday a once in a life time experience.End Testimonial

J RYAN

Start TestimonialThe service provide by Travel Butlers, and especially yourself, was excellent. Kariega was great too and the animal sightings were fantastic.End Testimonial

T KAVANAGH

Start TestimonialKariega Main Lodge was a great place to stay. Excellent food, service, atmosphere. Tracey was excellent in terms of arranging everything.End Testimonial

K PINNELL

Start TestimonialWe had an AMAZING trip!!Thank you so much for organising the few days...it all went so seamlessly. La Petite Ferme was so so beautiful...such amazing food, wine, scenery, lovely staff...Also amazing food in the restaurants in fabulous Franschhoek itself. Phantom Forest was also stunning ... very relaxing. The 6 course dinner menu was spectacular. The bonfire after dinner with wine and beers and meeting other guests also great. Such helpful, polite staff. The safari at Kariega was outstanding, again along with the huge variety of food laid out in buffet style. We saw a herd of 19 elephants feeding which was pretty incredible. We didn't manage to see the lions but apparently the night before they had seen them devour an entire water buffalo - when we visited the next morning there was nothing left..! Thanks again for all your great help!! Much appreciated.End Testimonial

C LUCEY


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Kariega Main Lodge Location.

Directions For Drivers

Note that Port Elizabeth has been renamed Gqeberha, and Grahamstown has been renamed Makhanda - both names for each place can appear on roadsigns and maps and can be used interchangeably.


From Port Elizabeth (Gqeberha) / Garden Route coastal route on the R72: Travel along the N2 towards Grahamstown (Makhanda). Approximately 50 km after Port Elizabeth, leave the N2 and take the off-ramp towards Port Alfred (R72). At the T-junction, turn right. Continue along the R72, and travel approximately 47 km until you reach Alexandria.

Continue through Alexandria until you reach Kenton-on-Sea, and then turn left onto the R343. Continue along this road for approximately 14 km and the Kariega Game Reserve Entrance will be signposted.

From Port Elizabeth (Gqeberha) / Garden Route alternate route: Travel along the N2 towards Grahamstown (Makhanda). Approximately 116 km after Port Elizabeth, leave the N2 and take the R343 towards Alexandria and Kenton-on-Sea. Continue on this road for approximately 32 km and the Kariega Game Reserve Entrance will be signposted.


From Port Elizabeth (Gqeberha), both of the above routes take a similar time (just over 1h 30 mins) and cover a similar total distance (around 145 km).



General Information For Guests

All the log chalets have en-suite bedrooms (with air-conditioning) and private viewing decks. Each chalet also has a spacious lounge and living area. Chalets also have a hair dryer, fridge, telephone, fan, and tea/coffee making facilities.

There is Wi-Fi connectivity in the chalets and the main lodge area.

The main lodge area has a restaurant, bar, boma area, pool, spa and secure parking. There is a safe at reception where guests can store any valuables.

Your ranger will drive you out on safari every morning and afternoon/evening in an open game-drive vehicle, traversing the valleys, grassy plains and African bushveld to bring you close to the Big 5 and other game roaming freely in their natural habitat.

Guests can complement their safari experience with a boat cruise down the Kariega River (subject to water levels), or take a canoe onto the river for a quiet paddle. Fishing can also be arranged.

Kariega also offers guided safari walks with experienced rangers. This provides guests with the opportunity of walking amongst more than 25 species of game and an abundance of birdlife.

A babysitting service is available (additional cost).

Credit cards are accepted.

Your rate also includes a compulsory Conservation and Community Levy - this contribution will aid conservation efforts as well as the anti-poaching unit and community projects.


Bush Walks / Walking Safaris

Children under the age of 16 years are not permitted on guided walks in the reserve. The final decision on whether a guest can join a guided bush walk remains with the guide and lodge manager.


Popular Alternatives to Kariega Main Lodge

These are the top properties booked by people who considered staying at Kariega Main Lodge, but for one reason or another booked a different property. It may have been that Kariega Main Lodge was not available on the nights they wanted to stay, or they decided that somewhere else was better suited to their budget or itinerary.

If you're not sure which place might be best for your own trip then either give us a call or get in touch via the website, and we'd be delighted to run through the options with you.

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