Kariega Game Reserve Main Lodge

If I could give Kariega more than 5 stars I would. We stayed at Settlers Drift and we were quite simply blown away. The location os breathtaking , the accommodation is beautiful. It is a true blend of luxury meets nature. The staff are all so friendly, warm and personable. They took my gluten allergen seriously and I've never experienced such care and choice over my food (which btw is unbelievably good!). The game drives exceeded all expectations and we were lucky to see everything except for the elusive Leopard (but that was expected). Highlights included the lioness and her adorable baby cubs, the lion and his teenagers and of course the Cheetahs. Our guide Monde was amazing. How he retains so much knowledge from brands, to animals to birds is beyond me. He was warm, funny, knowledgeable and patient. We loved every second. A morning cuppa on the game drive overlooking the reserve was breathtaking. Then the sundowner on the afternoon drive are a perfect way to end the day, one day we were blessed enough to have our sundowners by the girraffes, zebra and wilderbeats. Wow! I would not hesitate to recommend Kariega to anyone (I'd definitely pick Settlers Drift) and we will definitely return ourselves one day soon.

We arrived on the reserve from Thursday afternoon to Sunday morning. In that time we felt very welcome. The staff were excellent, the facilities were great , the views amazing and our guide was the best. I was a genuine privilege to be so close to these magnificent animals and it's encouraging to hear about the preservation and anti poaches teams being active in the area. Thanks to all the staff and our guide for making this so special

A stay at Kariega Game is way more than just a “bush” or “safari” holiday. The staff were so kind and welcoming, we felt part of a family during our stay at Kariega. The River Lodge was too beautiful for words. We saw the most incredible sightings, thanks to our our amazing ranger Osmand, and learnt so much on each of our game drives. We were so well looked after during our stay, from being welcomed with warm hand towels and Amarula hot chocolate after a cold game drive, to the incredible meals cooked for us (a huge thanks to the very talented chefs) and constantly having someone to ask for help or for anything if needed. There are so many activities also on offer at Kariega, apart from game drives, that make the stay even more memorable. Boat trips, bush walks, fishing and the list goes on. I’d go back to Kariega in a heartbeat if I could. Thank you to the wonderful team!

This place was amazing, fantastic staff and guides, everything was so clean and the food was amazing ( and a lot ). It was clean and the environment was beautiful.

Once in a lifetime experience. Was able to on a safari at the Kariega game reserve and it exceeded my expectations. The game drives were incredible, very knowledgeable ranger. Staff was incredibly hospitable. I would not hesitate to recommend. There was never over crowding viewing any of the animals.

Amazing experience! They made us feel like the only guests on the reserve. Awesome animal sightings and great insights along the way.

Kariega is an amazing game reserve. Our game viewing was excellent, the guides are incredible, and the overall experience is as good as it gets.

Magnificent lodge on the banks of the Kariega River with water and bush surrounding you.... Great Accommodation, Activities, Food and Staff.... A definite recommendations for both national, local and international guests.. A chance to unwind and just catch your breath.

We had a fantastic stay at the River Lodge. Everybody was friendly and welcoming. Our suite was spacious and clean, the food excellent and service very efficient. Our ranger Ossie gave us the best experience we could have imagined and was very knowledgeable and great company. Saw the Big 5 and more.