Kariega Main Lodge

Kariega Main Lodge, just 80 minutes from Port Elizabeth, is perfect for families seeking an authentic safari experience in a malaria-free environment. 

Family-owned since 1989, this 11,500-hectare private reserve boasts diverse ecosystems and an incredible array of wildlife, including the Big Five. Twice-daily game drives offer close encounters with lions, elephants, and more, while the nearby Kariega and Bushmans rivers provide stunning settings for river cruises and canoeing. The bordering rivers also provide a haven for twitchers who will have the chance to view an abundance of birdlife including the magnificent African fish eagle.

For younger explorers, the lodge’s “Kids on Safari” programme provides educational activities like bushcraft, animal tracking, and arts and crafts. Children can also participate in nature walks and fun skills like slingshot practice. The spacious, air-conditioned log chalets offer comfort and privacy, with large viewing decks ideal for spotting wildlife. Parents can relax at the lodge’s pool or enjoy a spa treatment while children are entertained in a dedicated children’s playroom stocked with games, books, and puzzles.

Combining exciting wildlife experiences and family-friendly amenities, Kariega Main Lodge is an ideal base for families visiting South Africa’s Eastern Cape.