There is a 300km expanse of out-of-this world scenery that extends along the southwest coast of South Africa called the Garden Route, and it doesn’t get it’s name for nothing! The Garden Route consists of never-ending fynbos, rivers, lakes, lagoons, indigenous forests and pristine beaches, making it a popular tourist destination in South Africa.
There’s a lesser known fact about this scenic tourist route that may surprise you! Believe it or not, the Garden Route boasts some of the most exquisite game lodges South Africa has to offer, including some magnificent opportunities for Big 5 game viewing. There are many beautiful safari lodges along the Garden Route to choose from, but we’ve made your decision a little easier by picking our top 5 Garden Route Game Lodge picks.
1. Kwena Lodge, Gondwana Game Reserve, EC
Accommodation: 14 free-standing thatched suites that overlook the watering hole. Each suite has a skylight for stargazing from your super comfortable bed, clay fireplaces and luxurious en-suite bathrooms featuring deep bathtubs to soak in as you take in the view.
Facilities: The main lodge offers a sparkling infinity pool, an inviting open-plan guest lounge, bar, dining hall and elevated veranda for spotting the passing wildlife. Kwena Lodge also offers guests an indulgent spa where you can unwind with Africology treatments. The lodge is known for providing guests with fine dining experiences, ranging from African-inspired cuisine served in the elegant dining hall or traditional South African barbecues enjoyed beside a campfire.
2. Botlierskop Game Reserve, Mossel Bay
Accommodation: Botlierskop Game Reserve offers a variety of safari lodges, each providing a unique experience. The tasteful Bush Villas are great for families, consisting of 2 bedrooms with en-suite bathrooms, a modern kitchen, lounge, deck and private plunge pool.
The Village Lodge is a contemporary Garden Route game lodge with a farm-style feel. Suites feature elegant four-poster beds draped with mosquito nets, en-suite bathrooms with soaking tubs and spacious indoor and outdoor lounging areas.
Last but not least, the Main Lodge is nestled in the fynbos with a voice between secluded African-inspired tented suites or the luxurious executive suites that boast spacious open-plan sleeping quarters, deep oval bathtubs and open air showers.
Facilities: Each lodge at Botlierskop has an inviting swimming pool and relaxing guest areas ranging from lounge areas, viewing decks, bars and relaxing spas.
Rating: 4-star
3. Shamwari Bayethe, EC
Accommodation: Shamwari Bayethe is an exquisite Garden Route game lodge which boasts 12 luxurious tented suites set in a tranquil environment. Each spacious suite features a cosy fireplace, full en-suite bathroom, private deck and plunge pool, combining contemporary decor with natural African-style materials.
Facilities: This incredible bush retreat offers extraordinary views from the timber viewing decks, a 5-star indoor and outdoor dining experience and a relaxing spa.
Rating: 5-star
4. Gorah Elephant Camp, EC
Accommodation: Gorah Elephant Camp is reminiscent of a bygone era, exuding 1900s charm, with each tented suite elegantly decorated and topped off with thatched canopies. Each suite is equipped with a private deck, comfortable twin or king bed and en-suite bathroom.
Facilities: The colonial-style main lodge sets a romantic atmosphere boasting elegant verandahs, where you’ll enjoy meals and high teas. This well-known garden route game lodge also has a tranquil boma, lit by lanterns and a campfire by night, charming old-world inspired lounge areas and a refreshing swimming pool beckoning you in for a dip.
Rating: 5-star
5. Pumba Msenge Lodge, EC
Accommodation: Relax in the Msenge chalets which overlook the picturesque surrounds. Each chalet is constructed to allow as much natural light in with full-length timber and glass windows and are equipped with private decks, a dressing room and spacious en-suite bathroom.
Facilities: Pumba Msenge Bush Lodge offers guests a truly serene and immersive safari experience, seamlessly blending natural materials with modern comforts. Soak in the infinity pool or take your lunch on the expansive timber deck overlooking the savannah. Each evening, 5-course dinners are served on the deck under a canopy of stars. If you’re in need of a little pampering, book yourself a treatment at the on-site spa.
Rating: 5-star
Each Garden Route game lodge offer such a different safari experience to the likes of Kruger. From different landscapes such as fynbos, sand dunes and glistening lakes to unique animal encounters including white lion sightings, a Garden Route safari will not disappoint!
