Request Agent
Need assistance? Our team is here to help you plan
Kariega Settlers Drift
Kariega Settlers Drift offers a unique tented safari combined with 5-star luxury. The lodge consists of 9 spacious tented suites, each with stunning views and secluded viewing decks. Gazing down from the decks overlooking the Bushman’s River. The luxuriously appointed and perfectly positioned tented lodge delivers the ultimate guest experience with breath- taking views from the lodge deck and pool. Guests at Kariega Settlers Drift can also relax in the comfortable setting of the lounge area with a book and enjoy starlight dining and traditional African barbecues in the boma.
Kariega Game Reserve is a family-owned private game reserve located in the Eastern Cape. The game reserve covers 5260 hectares of African wilderness and spans across five different eco-systems. Kariega Game Reserve is ranked as one of the best Eastern Cape Safari destinations and offers exceptional game viewing all year round and is set between two beautiful rivers, the Kariega and Bushman’s rivers. The diverse landscape and lush environment make the reserve a haven for varied flora and wildlife species. The rivers at Kariega Game Reserve connect the rolling African landscapes to the ocean making it ideal for water-based wildlife spotting, cruises, and adventure activities. Lead by energetic game rangers with an incredible passion for the African wild, daily game drives at Kariega River Lodge are taken in specialized 8-seater 4×4 safari vehicles. With the assistance of your expert ranger, you will enjoy close-up sightings of the Big 5 (lion, elephant, rhino, buffalo and leopard) as well as hippo, hyena, giraffe, zebra, eland, kudu, and fish eagles. This remarkable malaria-free reserve also offers safari cruises and kayaking excursions. Witnessing the incredible birdlife along the riverbeds is nothing short of magnificent on this unique safari experience. Kariega offers a selection of 4-star lodges as well as the 5-star lodges.
Wildlife:
- Kariega is a Big-5 reserve and is home to the lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo and rhino.
- Other wildlife includes zebra, giraffe, hippo, a variety of antelope species, lynx, hyena, jackal, and more.
- A large bird colony is particularly draw to the rivers.
- Leopard sighting are rare in any eastern cape game reserve.
Game Drives:
- Game drives take place twice a day in the early mornings and afternoons for a duration of 3-4 hours.
- Game drives are led by an experienced guide.
- Night drives and guided bush walk are permitted.
- River cruises are available at selected lodges.
- 8-seater vehicles.
Activities & Facilities:
- Game drives
- Guided bushwalks
- Stargazing
- Birdwatching
- Fishing
- Canoeing
- River cruises
- Swimming Pool
- Restaurant
- Open-air African Boma
- Bar & lounge
- Spa treatments
- Library
- Viewing deck
- Wine cellar
- Curio shop
Highlights:
- 5-star luxury tented style lodge, Kariega’s flagship offerings.
- Exceptional views over the Bushman’s River
- Main lodge features super stylish interiors with uninterrupted reserve views from the communal areas.
- 9 luxury tented style suites.
- Each suite features an open planned with a lounge area and private viewing decks.
- Dinners are served in the dinning room or in the traditional African Boma under the stars.
- Exciting Big-5 game drives with close up sightings.
Location:
Located in the Eastern Cape, along South Africa’s east coast.
Getting there:
- The closest commercial airport is Port Elizabeth (PLZ).
- Kariega Game Reserve is a 80 minute drive from Port Elizabeth.
- Flight time from Cape Town to Port Elizabeth: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Flight time from Johannesburg to Port Elizabeth: 1 hour 35 minutes
Child Policy:
- Settlers Drift welcomes children from 10 years.
- Children 10 – 16 years pay 50% when sharing with two adults.
- Children in their own suite pay full adult rates.
Inclusions & Exclusions:
- Included: 2 x Game drives per day, guided bushwalks, all meals, soft drinks and selected alcoholic beverages.
- Excluded: Premium branded drinks, conservation levies, airport transfers, and anything of personal nature.
Special offers:
- Stay 3 nights and save 15% on the accommodation (valid 01 May to 31 July)
- SA resident rates are bookable 01 May to Aug only.
Rates:
- The updated rates are displayed for each room category below.
- Rates are charged per person, per night.
- Single supplement of 50% applicable.
- Rates displayed are valid until 31 December 2024.
Seasons:
- Peak season: 18 Dec – 10 Jan & 01 Feb – 28 Feb
- High season: 01 Oct – 17 Dec & 01 Mar – 30 Apr & 11 Jan – 31st Jan
- Low season: 01 May – 30 Sep
Accommodation Options
The 9 luxurious tented suites at at Settlers Drift are one-of-a-kind and feature private viewing decks and stunning vistas. Each superior unit features an opulent bedroom and living area, full bathroom, indoor/outdoor shower and mini-bar.
Refer to seasons and T&C's above
Peak season R 15,700 per, per night
High Season R 14,600 per person, per night
Low Season R 10,800 per person, per night
