Kariega Settlers Drift

Location

Sitting amid indigenous trees, the lodge enjoys a brilliant location at the top of the Bushman’s River Valley in Kariega Game Reserve. It occupies a truly secluded area of the wild-life rich Eastern Cape so game drives are intimate and undisturbed. The reserve itself is a 10,000 hectare malaria-free wilderness area of acacia woodlands and savannah grassland tucked along South Africa’s Garden Route just 80 minutes from Port Elizabeth.

With a name inspired by the river which meanders through the region, the once overly farmed reserve is owned and managed by the Rushmere family who purchased the land in 1989. Compromising five different eco-systems, including mountains, forest, savannah and two stunning rivers, the landscape is abundant with wildlife, much of which was reintroduced once the Rushmere’s took the reigns from farmers who hunted and eradicated many of the local animals. All Big Five, zebra, giraffe, hippos, blue wildebeest and waterbuck, as well as wild cat, hyena, baboon and much more now safely call the thriving reserve home, making for fulfilling game drives and a rich, busy wildlife experience.

The two rivers which run through Kariega is what makes this reserve extra unique, the Bushman’s and Kariega Rivers. Reaching towards the sea, guests not only benefit from river activities alongside the usual bush adventures but also the nearby Kariega Beach and Kenton-On-Sea provide an incredibly well-rounded safari experience.

Rooms

There are nine tented suites placed discreetly throughout the woodland with pitched roofs and lots of glass windows for a bright and cool space. Interiors are very spacious and modern with soft neutral and grey furnishings and wooden floors. King-size beds face the canopy of trees and resident wildlife outside, and the lounge area features a wood-burning stove and sofas. Outside, there’s a small a private veranda and open-plan en-suites have both indoor and outdoor showers, and free-standing bathtubs with a view.

Communal Areas

Sleek wooden walkways lead to the main area housed under a tall pitched roof and through a grand entrance. The lounge has a soothing colour palette with neutral and grey tones throughout to create a contemporary and stylish space. The lounge has comfy sofas and chairs, coffee tables and a warming fireplace. An elegant marble and wood bar sits nearby with the restaurant just beyond. Guests can also dine out on the large deck with views of the hills and river or in the boma by the infinity pool. Explore the wine cellar and the curio shop stocked with souvenirs, artefacts and essentials.

Activities

Take game drives during the morning and afternoon through the reserve to search for the Big Five and more. Morning drives are often accompanied by a river cruise on the Kariega and Bushman’s river which run through the reserve. Embark on guided bush walks with knowledgeable guides, glide across the river on canoe excursions and try your hand at fishing. Just 15 minutes from the reserve are the beaches of Kenton-on-Sea and the Eastern Cape’s port towns of Bathhurst and Salem.