Karongwe Private Game Reserve Travel Guide: Top Sights in South

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

Suggested Duration: 48 hours

Karongwe Private Game Reserve in Limpopo covers approximately 9,000 hectares of restored bushveld, created in the late 1990s when neighboring cattle farms removed internal fences and formed a conservation-minded collective—now governed by the Karongwe Association and Karongwe Game (Pty) Ltd. Straddling the Makutsi, Lourene, and Greater Makalali reserves near Tzaneen, it lies just a 45-minute drive from Kruger National Park. Karongwe's terrain features undulating plains, rocky outcrops, and riparian corridors fed by four rivers, fostering a rich mosaic of savannah, Mopane bushveld, and riverine woodland. This varied environment supports over 40 mammal species—including the Big Five, cheetah, wild dog, hyena—and more than 365 bird species. At its heart, Karongwe marries conservation with cultural engagement and personalized safari experiences. Guided game drives (with off-road access) and bush walks are led by qualified rangers and local Shangaan trackers, offering insights into ecosystem dynamics and tribal knowledge. Five boutique lodges—from luxury tents with plunge pools to riverbank suites—are nestled discreetly among indigenous trees, all with pools and spa services. The reserve's community initiatives encompass anti-poaching education, hospitality training, school and orphanage support, and sustainable art and forestry programs. Combined with optional hot air balloon flights, helicopter flips, and Panorama Route excursions, Karongwe offers an immersive safari grounded in ecological restoration, wildlife diversity, and regional heritage.

Operators offering tours in South Africa

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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

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Reviews of Karongwe Private Game Reserve

Kathe Falzer

5
Reviewed: 2025-06-22

On pre-trip with Overseas Adventure travel spent 3 nights, went on 6 game drives. Saw the Big Five in two days. Charlie our guide and Peter our tracker were exceptional. Viewings were amazing(especially the leopard lying in the tree, the five rhinos at the watering hole, the pride of lions, the herd of Cape buffalo and two on foot closeup visits to cheetahs). Rooms delightful and comfortable. Food delicious and plentiful. Staff welcoming and accommodating. Exceptional beginning to the standard trip!
Juan Nel

4
Reviewed: 2025-04-20

Stunning scenery of the bushveld, great sightings and very good birding.
Anne Grenitz

5
Reviewed: 2025-03-14

We stayed 3 nights at the River Lodge. Every photo you see on the website is EXACTLY as it looks: beautiful river views, elegant table service, luxurious accommodations. I was hesitant at first when told there would be a 5am wake-up for the 530am-830am safari game drive: but it was well worth it. The animals are up early, beating the late morning heat, and our tracker and guide (shout out to Stefan and Patrick!) knew exactly where to find them. All guides are connected by radio and can share information as to where the animals are most active. After breakfast, spa time, lunch, and a quick nap, we were back in the safari jeeps for the 4pm-7pm game drives. Five game drives in total and not a disappointing one among them. The staff greet you with a smile and are very accommodating. One thing to be aware of, though, is many meals are served outdoors and there are quite a lot of insects: mosquito repellant, long sleeves and pants are recommended.
Danielle Johns

5
Reviewed: 2024-04-11

I have left my heart at the wonderful place, everything was exceptional, especially the warm and welcoming staff. I saw the big 5 plus more. I cannot wait to get back here asap.
Allan C.

5
Reviewed: 2020-11-10

We had an incredible, once in a lifetime, experience at Karongwe Private Reserve in the Greater Kruger Area in 2017. The accommodations were incredible and beyond 5+ stars. We were lucky to take a dip in the pool, and our rooms were superb. The food was delicious, morning and evening game drives were amazing, the head ranger (Keenan) and other rangers were super knowledgeable and friendly, and all the staff throughout the main lodge were super friendly. It was luxury glamping surrounded by African nature and wild life. This was one of our most favourite travel experiences so far, and we are looking forward to returning one day in the future.