Kariega Game Reserve Travel Guide: Top Sights in South africa, Tours

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Kariega Game Reserve- Travel Tips What to See, How to Plan & Tours: Natural Scenery; South Africa; 5 Reviews

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Suggested Duration: 6 hours

Kariega Game Reserve stretches across approximately 11,500 hectares of malaria‑free wilderness in South Africa's Eastern Cape, nestled between the Kariega and Bushmans rivers and a short drive from Port Elizabeth and Garden Route coastal towns. A family‑owned operation, Kariega has reunited five distinct ecosystems—grass plains, thicket, bushveld, riverine forest, and estuarine habitats—enabling reintroductions of the Big Five (lion, elephant, rhino, buffalo, leopard) alongside giraffe, hippo, wildebeest and over 280 bird species. The reserve's commitment to conservation is exemplified by efforts such as rehabilitating a poached white rhino named Thandi, ongoing rhino anti‑poaching units, wildlife monitoring, habitat restoration and community development via the Kariega Foundation. Travelers can enjoy guided game drives, leisurely river cruises and canoe trips on the Kariega River, as well as bush walks escorted by knowledgeable rangers. Accommodation spans five lodges from family‑friendly chalets and luxury tented suites to secluded villas—many featuring river‑view decks and private pools—and intimate guest numbers ensure a personalized safari setting. This combination of biodiversity, river‑front wilderness and coordinated conservation efforts delivers a multifaceted safari experience rooted in ecological restoration and local engagement.

Operators offering tours in South Africa

Attractions in South Africa

Kruger National Park

Cape Town

Garden Route National Park

4.6

iSimangaliso Wetland Park

4.6

Addo Elephant National Park

4.6

Blyde River Canyon

Drakensberg

4.8

Hluhluwe–iMfolozi Park

4.8

Reviews of Kariega Game Reserve

Simon

5
Reviewed: 2025-04-21

Absolutely stunningly located lodge with breathtaking views. The staff were all incredibly friendly, welcoming, and helpful. Amber, our guide, was not only highly competent but also truly delightful—warm, knowledgeable, and passionate about what she does. We enjoyed every single moment with her, from the exciting activities to the insightful conversations. Her presence made our stay even more special. The entire experience was unforgettable, and we can’t wait to return. Thank you for making our time so perfect in every possible way!
Margaret Paul

5
Reviewed: 2025-04-04

A fantastic experience! Kariega Game Reserve is truly a special place where our encounters with wildlife were often close and always breathtaking, while also highly respectful of the animals’ space and paramount care. The guides are attentive, knowledgeable, friendly, and excellent at maneuvering you through the reserve’s beautiful landscape. We saw lions, rino, zebra, elephants, hippos, giraffes, wart hogs, springbok and many other forms of wildlife. In fact, one of our group had been to Kruger and on other safaris where she didn’t see and experience time with nearly as many of the animals. This abundance of sightings was an extra thrill to her. Conservation is also a significant part of the work at Kariega, as they care for and preserve the land and its inhabitants, ensuring rich biodiversity. And when we weren’t out on drives, we enjoyed spending time at our stunning, luxury accommodations where we were completely spoiled by the comfort and views overlooking the reserve. This was a truly unforgettable 3 days, with incredible memories that we will always cherish. Highly recommend.
Vann Boy

3
Reviewed: 2025-02-27

It's not a bad game viewing experience, but it's a managed safari area, not wilderness. No leopard, no cheetah, 12 lions in far apart places. The chalets are poor and poorly maintained. We complained about lights needing repair & replacement shower heads desperately in need of cleaning, but were left wanting. The grime on the walls and down the skirting was very off-putting. To find anything good about the place, I can only say the food was tasty and plentiful. I can not recommend this place.
kayleigh wade

5
Reviewed: 2024-12-18

We had an amazing experience at the main cabin. We were greeted by the friendliest host, who then introduced us to our guide, Trust, who was a perfect combination of friendly, fun and informative and just all around wonderful! My 3 year old got to join us on both of our game drives and he absolutely loved it. We also were lucky to see more animals than expected. Our chalet was a clean, spacious and cozy place for us to relax and unwind. Well worth mentioning to come hungry- the buffet was plentiful and delicious. Wish we were able to spend more than one night and hope to come back in the future.
Jessica Glassock

5
Reviewed: 2024-11-20

We had the most amazing time at Kariega (River Lodge) for our honeymoon! It is such a breathtaking and peaceful place. Our guide Aussie was brilliant and made the experience so special. We saw so many beautiful animals and have so many memories we will cherish. The staff were all lovely and we can't thank them enough for making our stay so magical.