Kariega Settlers Drift 

Tented luxury

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

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.

Why we love Kariega Settlers Drift

  • From the main deck there are wonderful views over the open plains where you may be fortunate to see elephant, giraffe, zebra, ostrich and warthog

  • You can go in search of wildlife in a variety of ways - on foot, by vehicle or by boat

  • After your evening game drive, meet fellow guests around the fire pit and listen to the nocturnal sounds of nature

  • Your luxury tent has a cosy wood burner, perfect for cooler evenings

5 stars
Kariega Settlers Drift is situated within the 11,500-hectare Kariega Game Reserve
It’s just a 10-minute drive from Kenton-on Sea and 30 minutes from historic Grahamstown and a 1-hour 20-minute drive from Port Elizabeth Airport

Facilities

  • Restaurants & bars
  • Board
  • Spas & wellness
  • Activities
  • Sustainability

After an early morning game drive you will return to the lodge for brunch. Afternoon tea is served before the evening game drive where sundowner drinks are served out on safari. Return to the lodge for your evening meal which is served either in the restaurant or outside in the boma.

Whats Included

• All meals • Selected beverages • Twice daily game drives and a range of other activities

Between safari activities, massages are available at the spa sala.

Explore the reserve on twice-daily game drive. Walking safaris and canoe safaris bring you closer to nature, particular the prolific bird life. River cruises and specialist photographic safaris can also be arranged.

Lodge package • Breakfast, lunch and dinner • Selected drinks including soft drinks, house wine, local beer, and local spirits • Conservation levy • 2 shared game drives per day • River cruises and guided bush walks • Fishing and canoeing • Mini bar • Wi-Fi

Conservation is a key feature of Kariega and a levy per guest per night supports many local communities and an anti-poaching unit.

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