Karongwe
Game Reserve
Karongwe Private Game Reserve, located in the Greater Kruger National Park, spans 9,000 hectares of protected wilderness, offering an extraordinary safari experience. Set against the dramatic backdrop of the Drakensberg mountains and intersected by four rivers, the reserve draws a wealth of wildlife and birdlife, creating a prime location for immersive game viewing and close encounters with Africa’s iconic species.
Expert rangers and trackers lead daily and night drives in specialized 4×4 safari vehicles, bringing guests up close to lions, leopards, elephants, rhinos, buffalo, cheetahs, and African wild dogs. Guided walking safaris allow visitors to explore the bush on foot, discovering the smaller wonders of the ecosystem and observing giraffe, antelope, and zebra at arm’s length.
The reserve features three 5-star lodges and two 4-star lodges, each offering a unique experience. From the intimate luxury suites at Kuname Lodge to elegant tented accommodations, guests enjoy warm African hospitality, exceptional service, open Boma fires, and multiple relaxation areas overlooking the reserve.
Karongwe is easily accessed via Hoedspruit Eastgate Airport, followed by a pre-arranged 45-minute road transfer, ensuring a seamless journey into the heart of the African wilderness.
Wildlife
- Highest population density of the Big 5 with frequent sightings.
- Other wildlife include but are not limited to the hippopotamus, giraffe, zebra, cheetah, wild dog, hyaena, warthog, black-backed jackal, large herds of elephant and many other cat and antelope species.
- Over 500 bird species have been recorded in the region, many are seen at the 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 and tracker team.
- Vehicles are allowed to go off road to track and follow the wildlife.
- Strict traverse rules are in place and vehicle numbers are limited in each reserve. A maximum of two vehicles are allowed at any sighting.
- Night drives and guided bush walks are permitted.
Highlights
- A renowned private game reserve in the heart of Kruger National Park.
- Unique and high standard 4-star and 5-star safari lodges in the reserve, all offering an excellent value experience.
- Accommodation is strategically positioned in scenic locations, showcasing the beauty of the surroundings.
- Family and adult only lodges with various are age appropriate activities.
- Exceptional outdoor dinning experiences under the stars.
- Outstanding off-road game drives, night drives and guided bush walks, all offering excellent Big-5 sightings.
- Multiple rivers and waterholes throughout the reserve.
Location
- Located on the very western side of the Greater Kruger, sharing fenced borders with the Makalali Game Reserve.
- The Kruger National Park is almost 2 million hectares and lies in the north-eastern corner of South Africa in the Limpopo and Mpumalanga provinces.
Getting There
- Hoedspruit (HDS) is the closet commercial airport to Karongwe Game Reserve, daily flights operate from Johannesburg and Cape Town.
- Flight time from Johannesburg to Hoedspruit: 60 minutes.
- Flight time from Cape Town to Hoedspruit: 2 hours 30 minutes.
- Road transfers from Hoedspruit to Karongwe Game Reserve take 60 minutes.
Discover Safari Lodges
In Karongwe Game Reserve
Becks Safari Camp
Ages 6 years and older
River Safari Lodge
All ages are welcome
Chismo Safari Camp
All ages are welcome
Shiduli Private Game Lodge
All ages are welcome
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