Situated on South Africa’s malaria-free Garden Route, Kariega Game Reserve spans across 10,000 hectares of pristine Eastern Cape wilderness & is home to the Kariega & Bushman’s Rivers that not only attracts an abundance of wildlife but allow guests to experience both land & water-based safari activities.
Experience
The reserve is home to the famous Big 5 – lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo & rhino as well as a multitude of African wildlife, including hippo, giraffe & zebra. Bird watching is also spectacular.
With its accessible location, breathtaking scenery and Big 5 game viewing, Kariega Game Reserve is the perfect safari add-on to a trip along South Africa’s world-famous Garden Route or even as a fly-in destination from Cape Town.
Activities
Since the Kariega & Bushman’s Rivers cut through the reserve, Kariega offers a variety of exciting land & water-based safari activities.
Land-based activities include open 4x4 game drives in search of big game as well as expert-led walking safaris. Other fun-filled river-based activities include sunset boat cruises, kayaking, fishing & even beach trips by boat.
When to travel
Traditionally the most popular time to visit Kariega Game Reserve is from late August to early May, but the winter months offer an equally spectacular safari experience - but be sure to pack a good winter jacket if you are travelling between June & August.
Each of the summer and winter safari experiences in the Eastern Cape has something unique & special to offer. In winter, the animals move to open water sources, the vegetation is sparser & temperatures lower, all of which contribute to excellent game viewing.
In summer, there are loads of newborns animals & the migratory birds arrive which makes for excellent bird watching.
