Kariega Settlers Drift

Tented luxury

This family-owned lodge was named after the early settlers of the 1820s who crossed the Bushman's River with their wagons. Today, guests can explore the Bushman’s River in more comfort on a safari boat cruise. This is one of the best ways to search for just some of the 350 bird species identified in the reserve. Twice-daily game drives in open vehicles take you across the five different ecosystems where you may encounter lion, elephant, buffalo, rhino and, if you are very lucky, the elusive leopard. Other species include giraffe, hippo, hyena and zebra. Settlers Drift has a swimming pool and guests can enjoy pampering spa treatments at the sala.

In a remote valley overlooking the Bushman’s River, Settlers Drift is heavenly retreat. Reached by boat or by the winding road that was carefully cleared with the aim of removing the fewest number of trees possible, this secluded pocket of the wildlife-rich Eastern Cape is as exclusive as it gets. There are just nine luxury tented suites, each with a beautiful modern design in a stunning setting, and game drives are more intimate. There are just six seats per vehicle, and you'll have binoculars to share as well as blankets and ponchos to keep you warm on chilly morning drives.

The lodge has spacious lounges, a bar and an outdoor fire pit on the viewing deck, offering plenty of opportunities to get to know your small number of fellow guests. At meals, the wine is free-flowing and you can expect an exceptional level of service that's both attentive and relaxed. If you can peel yourself away from your luxurious tented suite, there's an infinity pool for afternoon laps, a wine cellar and a sala for decadent spa treatments.

Each opulent tented suite is completely private; they've been spaced out at around 100 metres from one another so you'll feel like you have the place to yourself. They have a large bedroom, living area and en suite under its billowing tented roof. There's an open-plan bathroom with a bath and semi-outdoor rain shower and a a well-stocked minibar and a log burner for cosy nights in. With the tented sides easily lifted, you can enjoy the wonders of the African bush from the indulgent surrounds of your room. As the sun sets and the nocturnal wildlife of the plains begin to stir, step out on deck to listen to the sounds of the Kariega Game Reserve by night.

Kariega Settlers Drift is set in a remote landscape of untouched wilderness, overlooking the Bushman’s River.