

Kariega River Lodge
Safari and beach
Reflecting the tranquillity of the river beyond, the lodge is a cosy and intimate space to sit back and relax, as well as explore the wondrous natural world beyond. Its superb location makes it a great spot to head out on a canoe and there's a spa on-site for soothing treatments after long days out in the bush.
Curl up with a book from the lodge's library in one of the lounges, take a refreshing dip in the pool, or bask in the sensational views afforded by either the large deck which overhangs the river, or your own private patio.
Connecting the vast plains of the game reserve to the sea, the river on which the lodge sits makes this a truly unique experience. Embark on one of the lodge's daily boat cruises and try to spot the verdant wildlife of the river as you travel through the quaint village of Kenton-on-sea and on to the picturesque beaches of the coast.
Sitting right on the banks of the Bushman's river, the air-conditioned thatched suites of the homely Kariega Game Reserve River Lodge offer guests a truly intimate and immersive experience. Reflecting the tranquillity of the river beyond, the lodge is a cosy and intimate space to sit back and relax, as well as explore the wondrous natural world beyond. Its superb location makes it a great spot to head out on a canoe and there's a spa on-site for soothing treatments after long days out in the bush.
Connecting the vast plains of the game reserve to the sea, the river on which the lodge sits makes this a truly unique experience. Try your hand at river fishing, or perhaps embark on one of the lodge's daily boat cruises and try to spot the verdant wildlife of the river as you travel through the quaint village of Kenton-on-sea and on to the picturesque beaches of the coast.
Sitting right on the banks of the Bushman's river, the homely Kariega Game Reserve River Lodge offer guests a truly intimate and immersive experience.
Safari and beach
Why our experts like it
We've done the exploring, asked the locals, made the mistakes, and found the gems... so you don't have to start from scratch! These are the bits we think you'll love the most. Think of it as travel advice from a friend who just got back and can't wait to tell you everything.

If you love French cuisine, look no further than La Belle Vie

An incredible way to kick off your Maldives holiday
“There's something pretty special about travelling by seaplane. The view from the sky is extraordinary - tiny specs of island and shades of blue that barely look real.”


The iconic, mile-long sandbank
Perfect for isolated sunbathing, dramatic photoshoots, and watching breathtaking Maldivian sunsets.

Snorkelling and diving isn't the only way to catch sight of the underwater world
“If snorkelling and diving isn't for you, it's possible to catch a glimpse of the reef from a glass-bottomed boat instead.”


Kids club at Niva Kuramathi Maldives
Supervised activities through the day, so younger guests get their own adventure while you get a quiet hour by the water.
Safari and beach
We book this hotel the way you want it
This Maldives hotel is perfect on its own, but add Sri Lanka, Dubai or the Seychelles and it becomes something even better. Discover our multi-centre holidays and make paradise last longer.
Food & drink
Before setting off on your morning game drive, enjoy hot drinks and snacks. Return for a filling brunch. High tea is served before the afternoon game drive and you will return for your evening meal in the restaurant our outside in the boma.



Safari and beach
Things to do nearby
Curated experiences to help you do more, see more, or simply switch off while you're here.

Visit the Born Free Big Cat Sanctuaries at Shamwari Private Game Reserve
Behind each of the big cats in their care, there is often a traumatic story. The rescued lions and leopards at the sanctuaries have grown up in appalling conditions of captivity. Whilst they should have been born in the wild, where they belong, unfortunately re-wilding them is not possible. With a dedicated team to monitor them as they adapt to their new surroundings, the sanctuaries give them a better home than they have ever known. There are two centres that Shamwari guests can visit. Located in the southern part of Shamwari Private Game Reserve, the Julie Ward Centre was established in 1999 and provides sanctuary for the rescued cats. Education is also a vital role of what they do and at the Jean Byrd Education Centre, in the northern part of the reserve, guests, local schools and colleges come to learn about South Africa’s wildlife and the importance of conservation for future generations.
Safari and beach
There is more than one way to do this trip
A match made in paradise
This hotel is perfect on its own, but add a second destination and it becomes something even better. Discover our multi-centre holidays and make paradise last longer.
What’s in the area
In the area
Where the hotel sits, and what is within reach of it.

Safari and beach
Trip ideas
You've come this far - and the world has more to offer. Why not pair Niva Kuramathi with another island, add a stopover in Dubai on the way for city lights and desert skies, or extend to Sri Lanka for tea, temples and safari? Below you'll find our recommendations for maximising your time away...








When to visit
When to visit
Temperature and rainfall through the year.
| Measurement | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Average temp | 28°C | 28°C | 29°C | 30°C | 30°C | 29°C | 29°C | 29°C | 28°C | 28°C | 28°C | 28°C |
| Average rainfall | 110mm | 60mm | 75mm | 125mm | 220mm | 175mm | 150mm | 175mm | 200mm | 195mm | 210mm | 215mm |
| Average price | £4,746pp | £4,992pp | £4,149pp | £4,222pp | £4,827pp | £4,835pp | £5,104pp | £5,176pp | £5,176pp | £5,129pp | £3,958pp | £3,958pp |
Safari and beach
Current offers
Savings worth having on the departures we think are worth taking. Every offer below applies to this hotel — check each one for the dates and conditions that come with it.

Save up to £300pp
Based on selected departures in September 2026

Save up to 25% when you book by 6th July
Based on selected departures in September 2026

Save up to 35% + complimentary meal upgrade
Based on 20th July 2026 departure

Free half-board upgrade
Based on selected departures in October 2026

Stay 7 nights, pay for 6
Based on selected departures in November 2026

Save up to £200pp on honeymoons
Based on selected departures in January 2027

Complimentary spa treatment for two
Based on stays of 7 nights or more

Free kids' places
Based on selected departures in August 2026
Build your holiday
Choose your dates, your room and where you fly from. Prices update as you go.
Your holiday so far
Flying from
Prices are per person, based on two sharing. Your Personal Travel Expert confirms the final price.
May 2026
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June 2026
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Great offers on Niva Kuramathi Maldives
Escape to Niva Kuramathi and enjoy exclusive savings on your Maldives getaway.
View offersHave you considered a multi-centre?
Maldives pairs really well with other destinations, from Dubai to Sri Lanka.
View multi-centresGood to know
- Includes flights, baggage, and private transfers to and from your hotel
- Total flight time ~ 7 hrs
- Total transfer time ~ 2 hrs
- Overnight in Malé may apply (subject to flights & transfers)
Frequently asked questions
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a visa to visit the Maldives?
British passport holders are issued a free 30-day visitor visa on arrival. You'll need a passport valid for the duration of your stay, a confirmed onward ticket and proof of your accommodation booking.
When is the best time to visit the Maldives?
November to April is the dry season, with the most reliable sunshine and calmest seas. May to October brings shorter rain showers, lower prices and better surf.
What currency is used in the Maldives, and do I need cash?
The local currency is the Maldivian rufiyaa, but resorts price and bill in US dollars and take major cards. Most guests never need cash — a small amount is handy for tipping.
Is the Maldives good for honeymoons outside peak season?
Yes. Off-peak brings noticeably lower rates and quieter islands, and rain tends to come in short bursts rather than all day. Many resorts add honeymoon extras during these months.
What activities are there for older kids and teens in the Maldives?
Most resorts run watersports centres with windsurfing, kayaking and paddleboarding, plus PADI dive courses from around age ten. Snorkelling safaris, sandbank trips and night fishing all suit older children.
Niva Kuramathi Maldives reviews
Guest reviews
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Safari and beach
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