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The malaria-free Big 5 private game reserve of Kariega is set in the pristine wilderness of the Kariega River Valley in the Eastern Cape. The picturesque Kariega and Bushmans Rivers border the Kariega Game Reserve. Covering 10,000ha of beautiful and diverse bushveld, it offers abundant game including lion, elephant, buffalo, rhino, hippo, hyena, giraffe, zebra and numerous antelope species. And located in an untouched part of Kariega is Settlers Drift, a unique tented safari camp offering 5 star luxury.
Settlers Drift Lodge comprises nine spacious tented suites, each with stunning views and secluded viewing decks. Gazing down from the decks overlooking the Bushman’s River, it feels as if time has stood still. Back in 1820, the Settlers first discovered this valley as they guided their wagons across the river. Hence the camp’s name…
This luxuriously appointed tented lodge offers a stylish and contemporary ambience with a restaurant, bar, wine cellar, swimming pool and library. Enjoy alfresco dinners in the lantern-lit boma at night. Or treat yoursef with a range of spa treatments between the morning and afternoon game activities. The suites are vast, over 110sqm with glass walls which can be opened up to the bush. Each has a sitting area with fireplace for winter and air-conditioning for summer as well as a large dressing room area. The lovely semi open-plan bathroom offers a bath with view, indoor rain shower, double basins and separate loo.
As well as morning and evening open vehicle game drives, Kariega offers walking close to abundant plains game and arrival by river cruises. Plus other activities include canoeing, fly-fishing and birding. The birdlife along the river banks is excellent with martial and crowned eagles soaring above you and the plantiff cry of the fish eagle often heard. The nearby sandy beaches of Kenton-on-Sea are less than 15 minutes drive away. Alternatively you can just relax by the pool or on your spacious deck and do absolutely nothing!
Settlers Drift Suite
The lodge consists of 9 Luxury tented suites (each 110m²) – offering opulent bedroom and living area, full bathroom, indoor/outdoor shower and private deck.
Room Facilities
Air Conditioning, Balcony / Deck, Bath Towels, Bath, Bed Linen, Complimentary Wi-Fi, Dressing Gowns, En Suite Bathroom, Ensuite, External Shower, Foam Mattress, Fridge, Hairdryer, Hand Towels, Heater, Laundry Service (Available), Lounge, Mini Bar (Complimentary), Outside Shower, Private Lounge / Sitting Area, Queen Bed, Safe, Shower, Smoke Alarm, Telephone, Twin Bed, Wardrobe
Property Facilities
Bar, Business Centre, Internet Access, Library, Malaria Free, Pool, Restaurant, Secure Parking, Spa, Vegetarian
Room Facilities
Air Conditioning, Balcony / Deck, Fan, Fireplace, Fridge, Heater, Lounge Area, Mini Bar, Outside Shower, Pure Cotton Linen, Safe, Shower, Tea / Coffee, Verandah
Available Services
24-hour Security, Credit Card Facilities
Activities on Site
Big 5, Bird Watching, Boating, Canoeing, Fine Dining, Fishing, Game Drives, Game Viewing, Game Walks, Kayaking, Massages, Rhino Tracking, Safaris
Activities Nearby
Animal Encounters, Beach, Big 5, Bird Watching, Boat Cruises, Boating, Canoeing, Catch-and-release Fishing, Child Friendly Activities, Cultural Tours, Elephant-back Safaris, Fishing, Game Drives, Game Viewing, Game Walks, General Sightseeing, Golf, Helicopter Rides, Historical Tours, Horse Riding, Kayaking / Paddling, Marine Adventures, Rhino Tracking, River Cruises, Safaris, Scuba Diving, Shark Cage Diving, Surfing, Windsurfing, Wine Tasting
The Kariega Game Reserve safari experience is centered around twice daily game drives. Guests will be delighted with close up viewing of a diversity of wild African game including lion, elephant, rhino, buffalo, hippo, giraffe, zebra, a host of antelope species, and much more including a myriad of exquisite birdlife. Skilled and knowledgeable game rangers will spend time unraveling some of the secrets of the African bush, will see to any specific requests, and ensure that all your questions are answered.
At Kariega Game Reserve there are a number of walking trails that guests can enjoy with their ranger. Guided safari walks allow guests to experience the feel of the African bush and enjoy watching wildlife and birds on foot.
Settlers Drift is located on the Bushman's River and is a great place for fishing.
The tented Wellness Centre or Sala is a great place to unwind and relax and offers luxurious treatments and therapies.
The Bushman's River provides a great river safari option. Guests can enjoy exquisite scenery and enchanting birdlife including the Crowned, Martial and African Fish Eagles. Guests to Settlers Drift can choose to arrive and depart by boat too.
