Camps Bay Retreat | Cape Town
Camps Bay Retreat is a sanctuary for the soul. A luxury boutique hotel set on four acres of lush green nature reserve with a natural mountain pool, thickets of trees, a waterfall and streams.
Stay in the elegant Earl’s Dyke Manor, the contemporary Deck House or the Villas where the stunning views include the natural surrounding beauty, the ever-changing Atlantic Ocean, and the majestic mountains.
The estate features 6 swimming pools and a spa with an outdoor nature tent for an unforgettable wellness experience. The in-house fine dining restaurant, Bella's, offers delectable dishes made with only the freshest local produce, and vegetables and herbs grown on the estate. A fully-equipped padel court and stunning, pathways throughout the gardens of the estate make it ideal for outdoor activity.
A refuge for the body and a haven for the mind - you’ll unravel and surrender to tranquility at Camps Bay Retreat.
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Each room features a Wood Fired Hot Tub, balcony with views of the ocean and mountain, ensuite bathroom with shower, with room 21 also featuring free standing bathtub.
Rooms feature a queen size sleigh bed, en-suite bathroom with a marble floor, a double vanity and a free-standing Victorian bath, as well as views of The Twelve Apostles mountain range.
Ocean and garden view rooms featuring a lounge, king-size bed, en-suite bathroom with bath and separate shower.
Ground floor residence features a fully equipped kitchen, dining area, spacious lounge with fireplace, guest restroom and leads out onto a terrace with a wood-fired hot tub, views of the ocean and forest. The bedroom has an en-suite bathroom with enclosed toilet, bath and separate shower, a king size bed which can be converted into twin beds. Sleeps 2 + 1 child.
Situated on the ground floor, featuring a deck with ocean views. The bedroom has an en-suite bathroom with enclosed toilet, bath and separate shower, a king size bed which can be converted to twin beds.
Situated on the ground floor, featuring a kitchenette, deck with ocean views and loungers. The bedroom has an en-suite bathroom with enclosed toilet, free standing bath and separate shower, a king size bed which can be converted into twin beds.
With views of the ocean and garden from your room and deck, the bedroom has an en-suite bathroom with enclosed toilet, free standing bath and separate shower, a king size bed which can be converted to twin beds.
Opening up onto a balcony boasting views of the ocean and Lions Head Mountain, with an en-suite shower.
Situated on the ground floor the room features a large deck with wood-fired hot tub, ocean views and loungers. This room comprises of a vanity bath, enclosed toilet and separate shower with sliding doors leading onto a deck which overlooks the ocean and gardens. Sleeps 2 + 1 child.
Ground floor studio featuring own private wood-fired hot tub, kitchenette, private pool with views of The Twelve Apostles Mountain range and spacious lounge with fireplace leading to an outside deck with views of the ocean and forest. The bedroom has an en-suite bathroom with enclosed toilet, free standing bath and separate shower, a king size bed which can be converted into twin beds. Sleeps 2 + 2 children.
This light and spacious master bedroom boasts expansive views of the ocean and The Twelve Apostles
mountain range. This suite features a balcony, an en-suite bathroom with walk-in closet, bath and separate shower.
Boasting ocean and mountain views from the North balcony, ocean and garden views from the enclosed West balcony. This suite features a lounge with fire place, a king size four poster bed, twin wardrobes, dressing room and an en-suite bathroom with bath and separate shower.
This spacious family suite comprises of 3 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms with decks on either side offering ocean and forest views. The suite features a lounge area with fireplace, dining room area and kitchenette. The bedroom layout offers the choice between double, queen or king bed.
On the ground floor, this room opens onto a wooden deck with mountain views and a wood-fired hot tub. The bedroom includes an en-suite bathroom with a shower.
Located on the top floor, this room offers ocean and mountain views from both the room and the enclosed balcony, along with a private en-suite bathroom with a bath and shower.
On the top floor, this room offers partial ocean and mountain views and an en-suite bathroom with a shower.
Property Facilities
24-hour Security, Bar, Gym (nearby), Internet Access (Complimentary), Laundry Service (Available), Library, Malaria Free, Pool, Restaurant, Secure Parking, Spa
Room Facilities
Air Conditioning, Bath, Complimentary Wi-Fi, Dressing Gowns, En-Suite, Hair Dryer, Heated Towel Rails, Internet Access (Complimentary), Laundry Service (Available), Lounge Area, Mini Bar, Pure Cotton Linen, Safe, Satellite / Cable Television, Shower, Tea / Coffee, Television
Available Services
Airport Shuttle (Available), Credit Card Facilities, Room Service, Travel Desk
Activities on Site
Bird Watching, Fine Dining, Gourmet Picnic, Massages, Tennis Court, Walks (Self Guided)
Activities Nearby
Adrenaline Activities, Beach, Bird Watching, Boat Cruises, Boating, Child Friendly Activities, Cultural Tours, Cycling, Fine Dining, General Sightseeing, Golf, Health and Fitness Centre, Helicopter Rides, Helicopter Scenic Flights, Hiking, Historical Tours, Kayaking / Paddling, Kite Surfing, Marine Adventures, Marine Tidal Pool, Massages, Mini Golf, Mountain Biking, Paragliding, Sailing, Squash Court, Surfing, Tennis Court, Walks (Self Guided), Wine Tasting
Situated on the edge of a ravine, the Mint Wellness Spa at Camps Bay Retreat is an experience to be savoured. From bespoke bridal spa packages, to carefully curated romantic indulgences, Mint Wellness Spa offers couples, friends and individuals a blissful space in which to unwind and relax.
A sauna, steam room and spa bath all form part of the spa experience and in the warmer months, we open our signature nature baths tent for treatments.
Padel is a dynamic sport that combines the best of tennis and squash. Enjoyed by people of all ages, in doubles or singles, means you can get the whole family involved. Easy to learn for beginners, yet more challenging as you improve this energising game aims to keep you on your toes. Enjoy spectacular views and nature while you play a game of Padel at Camps Bay Retreat. Lessons can be arranged and booked at reception.
Bella’s Restaurant
Welcome to Bella’s at Camps Bay Retreat, where we place local, organic and quality ingredients at the top of our priority lists. Open daily, we strive to offer all our guests a memorable experience so please pay special attention to our dining times and remember that guests not staying with us are encouraged to book their visit timeously. At Bella's Italian, each delectable dish celebrates the sublime flavors of locally sourced ingredients, allowing their natural essence to shine. Prepare to be enchanted by not only the gastronomic delights but also the impeccable service, ensuring an unforgettable dining experience.
Your Stay
5 Nights
Bed and Breakfast
Fast Facts
Hotel
Spoken Languages: English
No. Rooms: 25
Special Interests: Adventure, Beach / Coastal, Birding, Flora, Gourmet, Hiking, History & Culture, Leisure, Nature, Relaxation, Shopping, Sports, Wine
Babylonstoren Farm Hotel | Franschhoek
Set in the breathtakingly beautiful Cape Winelands, on the slopes of the Simonsberg Mountain, lies Babylonstoren. In truth, it is neither a farm nor a hotel. It’s an experience in multiple dimensions, offering an authentic stay that’s perfectly attuned to nature.
The Farm Hotel's Farmhouse, Manor House, Garden Cottages, Fynbos Cottages and family-focused Fynbos Family House are all rooted in modern farm luxury with every indulgence considered – the perfect base from which to explore the garden, spa, farm-to-fork restaurants, Tasting Room, Farm Shops and natural surrounds.
Hotel guests can join daily guided farm walks up the Babylonstoren koppie and through the orchards. They can cycle through the vineyards, enjoy bass fishing or canoeing, bake alongside the bakers, and join on a water buffalo tour or a guided drive up the slopes of Simonsberg Mountain to In the Clouds. At this special lookout with its glorious views of the valley and beautiful Table Mountain in the distance, guests can savour the sunset with a glass of wine in hand.
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The pristine Cape Dutch style of our two-bedroom cottages emulate a farm stay experience with thick walls, elegant gables and a hearty fireplace. A contemporary glass cube has been seamlessly added to the 18th-century structure to house a dining and kitchen area. The interiors continue this contemporary pairing with modern four-poster beds and furniture from international design brands such as Kartell, Magis, Philippe Starck and the Bouroullec Bros. Each bedroom also has a luxurious en-suite bathroom. Bookshelves filled with carefully selected books, underfloor heating and free Wi-Fi are just a few of the things that await you. Our cottages are either garden or vineyard facing. A well-stocked personalised bar fridge, as well as breakfast, are included in the room rate. All our two-bedroom cottages are serviced daily and come with a king-size bed, and a king or two single beds in the second bedroom.
4 Cottages available
Each of the slightly larger open-plan cottages has a luxurious en-suite bathroom and lounge area with thick walls, elegant gables and a hearty fireplace. Into this pristine Cape Dutch style, a contemporary glass cube has been seamlessly added to house a kitchen area. The interiors continue this pairing with modern four-poster beds and furniture from international design brands such as Kartell, Magis, Philippe Starck and the Bouroullec Bros. Bookshelves filled with carefully selected books, underfloor heating and free Wi-Fi are just a few of the things that await you. Suites are either garden or vineyard facing, with access to the garden and the farm. A well-stocked personalised bar fridge, as well as breakfast, are included in the room rate. All our one-bedroom cottages come with a king-size bed and are serviced daily.
3 Cottages available
Each open-plan suite has a luxurious en-suite bathroom and lounge area with thick walls, elegant gables and a hearty fireplace. The interiors take on an altogether contemporary feel when paired with the modern lines of furniture by international design brands such as Kartell, Magis, Philippe Starck and the Bouroullec Bros. Bookshelves are filled with a wonderful selection of books while underfloor heating and free Wi-Fi are just a few of the things that await you. A well-stocked personalised bar fridge, as well as breakfast, are included in the room rate. All our one-bedroom suites come with a king-size bed or twin beds and are serviced daily.
6 Suites available
Comfort is key in the one-bedroom Farmhouse suites where a moody interior theme comprising swarthy four-poster king-size beds, dusted moss walls, luxurious en-suite marble bathrooms and generous walk-in cupboards are paired with contemporary furniture and accessories such as extra-length MDF Italia sofas. In addition to the underfloor heating, each room is fitted with a cast-iron stove. Bookshelves filled with a wonderful selection of books and free Wi-Fi are just a few of the things that await you. A well-stocked personalised bar fridge, as well as breakfast, are included in the room rate. All our suites are serviced daily.
9 Suites available
At Fynbos Cottages guests can fully immerge themselves in the beauty of the natural plant habitat of the Western Cape’s mountains. The cottages are newly built in the Cape Dutch style and adjoin vineyards and orchards – ideal for our more adventurous guest
Our Cape Dutch Manor House dates back to 1777. This exclusive house has five bedrooms accommodating ten guests. All rooms have a king-size bed, with two of the rooms having the option of twin beds. Rooms are serviced daily and breakfast is included in the room rate, as well as a well-stocked personalised bar fridge. The interior has been beautifully restored to its former glory, but with a definite contemporary touch. Bookshelves are filled with a wonderful selection of books and the traditional farm kitchen boasts a roaring old wood-burning stove. Guests have access to the garden at all times, with games set up on the private lawn. Curl up in front of the hearty fireplace and admire the architecture, or enjoy refreshments in the garden whilst savouring the exquisite views.
5 Rooms, 10 guest. Exclusive use
Fully equipped kitchen, spacious lounge, private pool and courtyard
Up to ten guests are accommodated in five individual bedrooms, each comprising a fireplace and spacious en-suite with marbled tile floors and luxurious freestanding baths to soak away your worries. Leading off the spacious lounge is a contemporary glass cube, seamlessly encompassing a fully equipped kitchen. The heart of the house is the private central courtyard, offering a gathering space for friends and family to share. A crystal pool in the center of the courtyard is fed by a shallow channel, emulating the streams on the rest of the property and providing the tranquil sound of gently trickling water.
5 Rooms, 10 guest. Exclusive use
Property Facilities
24-hour Security, Activity Desk, Bar, Battery Charging Facilities, Conference Centre, Gym, Gym (nearby), Internet Access (Complimentary), Laundry Service (Available), Laundry Service (Complimentary), Library, Malaria Free, Mobile Connectivity, Pool, Restaurant, Secure Parking, Spa
Room Facilities
Air Conditioning, Bath, Complimentary Wi-Fi, Dressing Gowns, Electrical Outlets, En-Suite, Fan, Fireplace, Fridge, Hair Dryer, Heated Towel Rails, Internet Access (Complimentary), Laundry Service (Available), Lounge Area, Mini Bar, Mini Bar (Complimentary), Pure Cotton Linen, Safe, Satellite / Cable Television, Shower, Tea / Coffee, Television, Underfloor Heating
Available Services
Airport Shuttle (Available), Babysitting Service, Credit Card Facilities
Activities on Site
Bird Watching, Boules, Canoeing, Catch-and-release Fishing, Cycling, Fine Dining, Fishing, Garden Tours, Kayaking, Massages, Walks (Guided), Walks (Self Guided)
Activities Nearby
Adrenaline Activities, Animal Encounters, Art Galleries, Bird Watching, Boules, Canoeing, Catch-and-release Fishing, Child Friendly Activities, Cooking Courses, Cultural Tours, Cycling, Fine Dining, Fishing, Fly Fishing, Garden Tours, General Sightseeing, Golf, Health and Fitness Centre, Hiking, Historical Tours, Horse Riding, Hot Air Ballooning, Kayaking / Paddling, Massages, Mountain Biking, Museums, Natural History Tours, Quad Biking, Shark Cage Diving, Sky Diving, Walks (Guided), Walks (Self Guided), Wine Tasting
Your Stay
2 Nights
Bed and Breakfast
Fast Facts
Hotel
Spoken Languages: Afrikaans, English
No. Rooms: 33
Special Interests: Adventure, Birding, Cycling, Fishing, Flora, Gourmet, Hiking, History & Culture, Leisure, Nature, Relaxation, Shopping, Sports, Wine
Lairds Lodge Country Estate | Plettenberg Bay
Laze your way through languid afternoons on one of several verandahs or in any of the sheltered courtyards where homemade iced tea is served with our compliments; the secluded swimming pool too is particularly inviting while beautifully landscaped gardens offer opportunity for a leisurely stroll. Indoors, the front lounge with its comfortable couches, small library, complimentary internet access, wood burning fireplace, and satellite television provides an alternative backdrop to a cup of tea and the day’s decadent cake, or something stronger. And the brandy lounge has cosy seating arrangements ideal for enjoying an aged after dinner brandy or whisky, along with a separate large screen television area for the sports enthusiast.
Scrumptious breakfasts – fresh fruits, just-baked breads, croissants and muffins, homemade jams and preserves, and cooked specialities – will prepare you for the day ahead. Pre-dinner drinks are enjoyed around heated braziers in the candlelit courtyard or in the informal brandy lounge. Specialising in seafood and game dishes, the Lodge boasts one of the finest menus in the Garden Route; sociable 4-course gourmet dinners are served in the traditional reed ceilinged dining room, or can be taken in the rustic charm of the wine room. Every meal is carefully paired with selected wines from the Cape, ensuring a memorable South African dining experience, every time
Each of the elegant, high-ceilinged and individually decorated en suite rooms speaks of welcoming tranquility and easy living with cushioned comfort, air conditioned facilities, percale linen and specialised toiletries. Gowns, room safes, telephones and well stocked tea and coffee stations add to the restrained luxury
Not only is the Lodge a Gourmet Retreat property but it is situated in one of the most picturesque regions of South Africa – the feted Garden Route.
Foodie or otherwise, visitors are spoilt for choice when it comes to activities; because we at Laird’s are passionate about food and believe that the majority of humankind travel on their stomachs, our staff are encouraged to reveal the hidden gems of our area.
On Thesen Island in Knysna you’ll find a 6th-generation baker and the best hangouts for fresh oysters; take a boat trip across the Knysna Lagoon to the Western Head while feasting on lunch and spectacular views; exploring Leisure Isle, Bollards Bay and Brenton on Sea is a must; and, if shopping and a peaceful meal is what you’re after, then The Waterfront should be your first stop.
In Plettenberg Bay your time will be well spent in the small Artisan coffee shops and at any one of the local markets; get up close and personal with whales and dolphins by boat; enjoy the famed Robberg Nature and Marine Reserve with its pristine beach, 200 metre sand dune and 300-strong seal colony; lunch in the vineyards at award winning wine estates; or sip on sundowners in one of the restaurants perched on the rocks or right on the beach while possibly watching the antics of the dolphins frequenting the bay.
With endless stretches of pristine beaches immediately at hand, lazing on the beach could be the pastime of choice; but for those who wish to do a little exploring or adventuring the area’s multitude of activity and leisure options are readily accessible.
Regardless of your leisure time preference, Laird’s Lodge and its diverse surroundings will keep you coming back for more, time after time
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The comfortable standard room has an en-suite bathroom with a shower only. Other amenities for your comfort include air conditioning, / heating, tea and coffee facilities, TV with DStv, WiFi, percale linen, and private terraces.
Luxury Room with king/twin beds & en suite bathroom with a bath & shower. Luxury amenities for your comfort include air-conditioning/heating, tea, and coffee facilities, TV with DStv, WiFi, percale linen, and private terraces
Deluxe rooms with King/Twin beds & en-suite with a bath and shower. Luxury amenities for your comfort include air-conditioning/heating, tea, and coffee facilities, TV with DStv, WiFi, percale linen, and private terraces.
Property Facilities
Bar, Business Centre, Communal Dining, Library, Malaria Free, Mobile Connectivity, Pool, Restaurant, Secure Parking, TV Room, Vegetarian
Room Facilities
Air Conditioning, Bath, Complimentary Wi-Fi, Disabled Rooms, Dressing Gowns, Fan, Fridge, Heater, Laundry Service (Available), Pure Cotton Linen, Safe, Shower, Tea / Coffee, Television, Verandah
Available Services
24-hour Security, Airport Shuttle (Available), Credit Card Facilities, Disability, Laundry Service (Available), Room Service, Travel Desk
Activities on Site
Cooking Courses
Activities Nearby
Adrenaline Activities, Animal Encounters, Art Galleries, Beach, Bird Watching, Boat Cruises, Boating, Canoeing, Child Friendly Activities, Cooking Courses, Cultural Tours, Cycling, Deep Sea Fishing, Elephant-back Safaris, Fishing, Game Drives, Game Viewing, Game Walks, General Sightseeing, Golf, Health and Fitness Centre, Hiking, Horse Riding, Jet Skis, Kayaking / Paddling, Marine Adventures, Mountain Biking, Para Sailing, Quad Biking, River Cruises, Safaris, Sailing, Scuba Diving, Sea Kayaking, Sky Diving, Squash Court, Surfing, Tennis Court, Walks (Guided), Walks (Self Guided), Wildlife Tours, Windsurfing, Wine Tasting
Your Stay
4 Nights
Bed and Breakfast
Fast Facts
4 Star
Guest House
Spoken Languages: English, Xhosa
No. Rooms: 17
Special Interests: Adventure, Beach / Coastal, Birding, Cycling, Fishing, Flora, Golf, Gourmet, Hiking, History & Culture, Leisure, Nature, Relaxation, Shopping, Sports, Watersports, Wildlife, Wine
Kwandwe Private Game Reserve - Ecca Lodge | Kwandwe Private Game Reserve
Set in lush vegetation overlooking a secluded valley, Ecca Lodge offers breathtaking views of an escarpment of steep shale cliffs. The lodge is intimate, relaxed, and stylish, with décor reflecting understated elegance and muted, natural tones inspired by African culture. Highlights of the guest areas include expansive wooden viewing decks and a rim-flow lap pool, all designed to blend seamlessly with the natural surroundings.
The rooms are light, airy, and thoughtfully designed, featuring wraparound wooden decks with private plunge pools and outdoor showers. Each suite boasts a super-king-sized bed, spacious en-suite bathroom, and a separate lounge area. For a more exclusive experience, private vehicle suites include a dedicated safari vehicle, guide and tracker for up to two adults, with space for up to two children under 12 who stay for free (only CCR levies apply) and are accommodated on day beds in the lounge.
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- Activities and Services
Set in lush vegetation overlooking a secluded valley, Ecca Lodge offers breathtaking views of an escarpment of steep shale cliffs. The lodge is intimate, relaxed, and stylish, with décor reflecting understated elegance and muted, natural tones inspired by African culture. Highlights of the guest areas include expansive wooden viewing decks and a rim-flow lap pool, all designed to blend seamlessly with the natural surroundings.
The rooms are light, airy, and thoughtfully designed, featuring wraparound wooden decks with private plunge pools and outdoor showers. Each suite boasts a super-king-sized bed, spacious en-suite bathroom, and a separate lounge area.
Room Facilities
Air Conditioning, Balcony / Deck, Bath Towels, Bath, Bed Linen, Complimentary Wi-Fi, Electrical Outlets, En Suite Bathroom, Ensuite, External Shower, Fan, Fridge, Hairdryer, Hand Towels, Internet Access (Complimentary), Laundry Service (Complimentary), Lounge, Mini Bar (Complimentary), Mini Bar, Outside Shower, Plunge Pool, Private Lounge / Sitting Area, Private Pool / Jacuzzi, Safe, Shower, Tea / Coffee, Vanity Cabinet, Wardrobe
Set in lush vegetation overlooking a secluded valley, Ecca Lodge offers breathtaking views of an escarpment of steep shale cliffs. The lodge is intimate, relaxed, and stylish, with décor reflecting understated elegance and muted, natural tones inspired by African culture. Highlights of the guest areas include expansive wooden viewing decks and a rim-flow lap pool, all designed to blend seamlessly with the natural surroundings.
The rooms are light, airy, and thoughtfully designed, featuring wraparound wooden decks with private plunge pools and outdoor showers. Each suite boasts a super-king-sized bed, spacious en-suite bathroom, and a separate lounge area. For a more exclusive experience, private vehicle suites include a dedicated safari vehicle, guide and tracker for up to two adults, with space for up to two children under 12 who stay for free (only CCR levies apply) and are accommodated on day beds in the lounge.
Room Facilities
Air Conditioning, Balcony / Deck, Bath Towels, Bath, Bed Linen, Complimentary Wi-Fi, Dressing Gowns, Electrical Outlets, En Suite Bathroom, Ensuite, Fan, Fridge, Fridge/Freezer, Hairdryer, Internet Access (Complimentary), Laundry Service (Complimentary), Lounge Area, Mid Ensuite With Separate Shower/Toilet, Mini Bar (Complimentary), Outside Shower, Plunge Pool, Private Lounge / Sitting Area, Private Pool / Jacuzzi, Safe, Shower, Tea / Coffee, Vanity Cabinet, Wardrobe
Property Facilities
Accept Credit Cards, Air conditioner, Baby Sitting, Bar, Barbeque Facilities, Business Centre, Children Friendly, Communal Dining, Eco Friendly, Internet Access (Complimentary), Kiddies Club, Malaria Free, Mobile Connectivity, Outdoor Pool / Pool Deck, Pool, Restaurant, Secure Parking, Spa, TV Room
Room Facilities
Air Conditioning, Balcony , Balcony / Deck, Bath Towels, Bath, Bed Linen, Complimentary Wi-Fi, Dressing Gowns, Electrical Outlets, En Suite Bathroom, Ensuite, External Shower, Fan, Fridge, Hairdryer, Hand Towels, Heater, Internet Access (Complimentary), Laundry Service (Complimentary), Lounge Area, Lounge, Mini Bar (Complimentary), Mini Bar, Outside Shower, Plunge Pool, Private Lounge / Sitting Area, Private Pool / Jacuzzi, Safe, Shower, Tea / Coffee, Telephone, Underfloor Heating, Vanity Cabinet, Wardrobe
Available Services
24-hour Security, Airport Shuttle (Available), Baby Sitting, Credit Card Facilities, Laundry Service (Available), Laundry Service (Complimentary), Private Vehicle (Available), Room Service
Activities on Site
Big 5, Bird Watching, Boating, Catch-and-release Fishing, Fishing, Game Drives, Game Viewing, Game Walks, Gourmet Picnic, High Tea, Massages, Night Drives, Rhino Tracking, Safaris, Walks (Guided)
Activities Nearby
Battlefield Tours, Cultural Tours, Deep Sea Fishing, Fishing, General Sightseeing, Historical Tours, Natural History Tours
Explore the natural splendour of Kwandwe on early morning and late afternoon / evening game drives in an open 4x4 safari vehicle. An armed ranger and tracker team share their extensive knowledge of the bush with you as you track the Big Five, as well as a variety of other wildlife.
Morning drives begin as dawn breaks over the Great Fish River, providing the opportunity to see predators winding up their nocturnal hunts and settling in for the day. Many animals take advantage of the cool morning hours to graze before the heat of the day. In the late afternoon wildlife can often be spotted coming down to the river to drink. Night drives produces some unusual sightings, including aardvark, aardwolf, bat-eared fox and porcupine.
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Experience the thrill of tracking big game (white rhino, black rhino, elephant and buffalo) on foot, accompanied by an armed specialist ranger and tracker team. The walk lasts 3 to 4 hours and ends with a picnic lunch on the banks of the Great Fish River or at a scenic spot in the bush. Not suitable for children under 16 years of age.
Kwandwe offers a variety of fishing options, either in still water or in the Great Fish River. Try your hand at catching Large Mouth Bass on artificial lures or fly rod in the reserve’s largest dam. Coarse (bait) fishing can also be tried in either the Great Fish River or one of the other large dams to target Yellowfish, Carp, Sharptooth Catfish and more. A fun activity for children as well as for adults.
In between game drives, take a closer look at the subtle, unseen wonders of the bush on a leisurely walk within easy reach of your lodge. Dense euphorbia thickets are best explored on foot, revealing a secret world of lichen, mosses and ferns. Various birds of prey and other species nest in the taller trees or in the spiny canopy. An armed ranger guides guests through ‘up close and personal’ sightings of various antelope species, giraffe, warthog or zebra. Not suitable for children under 12 years of age.
Available year-round, subject to availability.
Join Kwandwe’s conservation team on a private, hands-on experience tracking and monitoring rhinos in their natural habitat. Spend 3 - 4 hours tracking rhino with a specialist ranger and tracker team and use bush skills, telemetry, drones, and AI to help identify these critically endangered animals while learning about the innovative efforts to protect them. This interactive drive offers a rare insight into rhino conservation, where your participation directly contributes to their survival. The experience ends with refreshments at a scenic spot in the bush.
All ages welcome.
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Join Kwandwe’s expert-led rhino darting and notching conservation programme, an immersive experience that directly contributes to protecting this endangered species. From May to September, guests can assist in locating and sedating a rhino before working alongside specialists to administer medication, collect scientific data, and fit solar-powered ankle collars. This advanced conservation system provides critical insights into rhino behaviour and plays a vital role in their protection.
As part of this experience, guests also participate in a rhino monitoring drive the afternoon before the procedure. The process involves microchipping the horns and ear-notching for future identification—an essential task in rhino conservation.
This experience requires a minimum stay of four nights and is available for guests staying in both lodges and villas (villas recommended). A private vehicle is required for lodge stays (included for villa bookings), and prior booking is essential. While the best time for this activity is May–September, it can be arranged year-round, subject to the availability of the wildlife management team and rhinos requiring notching.
Note: Suitable for children 6+ years.
https://www.kwandwe.com/specialist-safaris/
A recommended four-night, five-day safari offers a rare, behind-the-scenes look at the daily operations of a private conservation reserve. Join Kwandwe’s dedicated conservation team to gain first-hand experience in managing and protecting a vast wilderness.
This exclusive programme includes participation in key conservation activities, such as rhino monitoring, learning about the K9 Anti-Poaching Unit, contributing to the Spekboom reforestation project, and exploring the cutting-edge AI and technology used in wildlife protection. Under the supervision of experts, guests also have the opportunity to assist in the darting of a rhino for essential conservation procedures such as ear-notching and DNA sampling—critical tasks in ensuring the survival of this endangered species. Guests will have extended time with the conservation team over bush breakfasts and fireside dinners, offering deeper insight into Kwandwe’s pioneering efforts.
This experience takes place from May - September (during the cooler months) and is subject to the reserve’s conservation priorities. Available exclusively for villa stays with a private vehicle. Children aged 6+ are welcome. Prior booking is essential and requires approval from the Conservation Manager.
https://www.kwandwe.com/specialist-safaris/
Tailor-make your own safari led by a dedicated specialist ranger and tracker team, ensuring a private game viewing experience (subject to the availability of a private vehicle being available at the time of booking). A private safari vehicle has to be booked for the duration of a stay; a safari day runs from 13h00 (check-in time) to 12h00 the following day.
Kwandwe offers a variety of fishing options, either in still water or in the Great Fish River. Try your hand at catching Large Mouth Bass on artificial lures or fly rod in the reserve’s largest dam. Coarse (bait) fishing can also be tried in either the Great Fish River or one of the other large dams to target Yellowfish, Carp, Sharptooth Catfish and more.
Spend as much time as you like fishing with your private guide while surrounded by the beauty of Kwandwe’s big 5 wilderness. For a fully private experience this must be booked for the duration of your stay.
Tailor-made to suit the experience level of participants, the photographic guide advises guests of appropriate camera settings at different scenarios, providing compositional ideas and to answer any questions relating to photography. Alternatively simply sit back and enjoy the connected experience of your safari while your specialist guide takes the pictures for you. Includes a private vehicle, edited photographs in electronic format along with a complimentary Kwandwe digital photobook.
Must be booked for the duration of your stay and includes a private vehicle, edited photographs in electronic format along with a complimentary Kwandwe digital photobook.
A professionally qualified and experienced trails guide will enable you to experience Kwandwe on foot. Choose whether to view large game such Black and White Rhino, Elephant or Buffalo on foot, or simply absorb the beauty of nature while walking through the fascinating environments with your armed guide. You decide when to walk, or when to drive as your heart desires. For a fully private experience this must be booked for the duration of your stay. Not suitable for children under 16 years of age.
Image: Scott Ramsay
Spend as much time as you like looking for those elusive specials and add to your knowledge of South Africa’s birdlife. Your specialist guide has detailed knowledge of where, when and how to find what bird you are after with their intimate knowledge of Kwandwe’s 315 recorded species of bird.
We have a variety of children's activities at our properties:
- Children receive a welcome gift on arrival which includes an Eco-nect Guide comprising animal
checklists, themed games and activities, and a pledge to ‘live green’ (‘Junior’ for under 6’s and
‘Senior’ for ages 6 and up), crayons/ pencils, and an age appropriate gift from our gift shop.
- Families can participate in fun and adventurous activities on the reserve, including kite building,
scavenger hunts across the reserve with thought-provoking clues to seek hidden items which will
help you in your next task... or treasure hunts during a game drive which teach basic navigation
using a sun-compass and how to use major landscape features in order to find the treasure!
- Giving back: families have the opportunity to plant Spekboom, a type of thicket vegetation that is
native to the Eastern Cape and prolific on the reserve, and one of the top five carbon-storing
vegetations on the planet. In this way they are encouraged to offset their carbon footprints.
Families can also participate in Kwandwe’s voluntourism activities through the reserve’s Ubunye
Foundation, which works with communities living in and surrounding the reserve.
- Activities are tailored according to individual and family interests and skillsets. For young guests
this includes assisting with gardening projects at the local Mgcamabele Community; participating
in arts and craft activities; and toddlers are invited to join in playtime at the pre-school.
- Children are also welcome to participate in Kwandwe’s ‘Knit a Bit’ program. The knitted squares
are joined to make blankets and given to the Ubunye Foundation that distributes them the
communities surrounding Kwandwe.
- Other activities for children include ‘crumpet creatures’ (using a variety of coloured crumpet
mixtures in squeezy bottles, the ranger and kids will create animal shaped crumpets); sand art,
making moulds from Plaster of Paris, beading, Minnow’s fishing trip with a ranger, baking and
pizza making with specially designed ‘Chefs in Training’ aprons and toques, DVDs and popcorn,
eco educational board games (learning about recycling and the how to care for our planet in a fun
way) and African bedtime stories.
A variety of wellness treatments are available to be enjoyed in the privacy of your suite. Since the earliest time, Africa's original inhabitants lived in harmony with nature. Our treatments and rituals were inspired by, designed and based on Africa's rich heritage and created to celebrate mother earth and her connection with life. Only the finest natural ingredients available from nature are used in our products, including oil from the Marula fruit, Mongongo nut oil, healing Shea butter, oil from the Baobab tree, ointment from the African sausage tree and Mafura butter, to name but a few.
The Ubunye Foundation is our social development arm. Established in 2002, the Foundation is an independent, non-profit, charitable trust that currently invests in the development of nine rural communities, two of which are located in the Kwandwe reserve.
Guests at Kwandwe have the unique opportunity to participate in volunteering towards the Ubunye Foundation by donating items, getting involved in activities and/or financial donations.
Your Stay
3 Nights
Fully Inclusive - Bed, All Meals, Fees and Activities
Fast Facts
5 Star
Lodge
Spoken Languages: Afrikaans, English, Xhosa
No. Rooms: 6
Special Interests: Adventure, Battlefields, Big 5, Birding, Fishing, Flora, Gourmet, Indigenous Culture / Art, Leisure, Nature, Relaxation, Star Gazing, Wildlife
