Rolling hills, vast private reserves and remarkable wildlife have helped establish the Eastern Cape as one of South Africa's most rewarding safari destinations.
The Eastern Cape is home to some of South Africa's most exclusive safari experiences, where vast private reserves, diverse landscapes and remarkable wildlife create a rewarding alternative to the country's better-known game viewing regions. Combining conservation, luxury and exceptional guiding, it has become one of the nation's leading safari destinations.
Across the region, renowned reserves such as Shamwari, Kwandwe, Kariega and Lalibela offer opportunities to encounter the Big Five alongside a wealth of other wildlife. Open plains, river valleys, bushveld and rolling hills create a varied landscape that supports an impressive diversity of species whilst providing beautiful scenery throughout the year.
The emphasis here is on exclusivity and quality rather than scale. Expert guides, intimate game drives and luxury lodges allow guests to enjoy a more personal connection with both the wildlife and the landscape. Easily combined with Cape Town, the Garden Route and South Africa's southern coastline, the Eastern Cape remains one of the country's most rewarding safari destinations.
Moments of discovery often become the most memorable part of any journey, whether found through an exceptional hotel, a remarkable landscape or an experience that reveals a destination in a new light. The places that stay with us longest are those that create a genuine sense of connection.
Across islands, coastlines, mountains and vibrant cities, every destination offers its own character and rhythm. Some invite adventure, others encourage slower exploration, but the most rewarding journeys are often those that combine comfort, authenticity and a sense of place.
From luxury hotels and boutique retreats to safari experiences, rail journeys and small-ship voyages, our collection celebrates travel that feels considered, inspiring and memorable long after returning home.
Madikwe Hills Private Game Lodge, perched on a hill in the malaria-free Madikwe Game Reserve, offers an enchanting luxury safari across 75,000 hectares. Renowned for Big Five and rare wild dog sightings, it borders Botswana with captivating wilderness. The ten secluded glass-fronted suites, each spanning 150 square metres, feature private decks with plunge pools, air-conditioning, ceiling fans, fireplaces, mosquito nets, fully stocked minibars, and romantic en-suite bathrooms with indoor and outdoor showers, offering uninterrupted savannah views. Little Madikwe, a family-friendly camp, includes a 390-square-metre two-bedroom suite, with two additional luxury suites available to form a private retreat for up to eight guests, complete with a private pool, verandah, dining room, kitchen, personal chef, butler, and dedicated game drive vehicle. All-inclusive dining features full English and continental breakfasts and lunches on the main deck, with dinners served under starlit skies in the traditional boma or with fine silver service in the elegant dining room, paired with local wines. The lodge's wellness spa, inspired by African healing traditions, offers signature treatments using indigenous botanical ingredients, complemented by a fully equipped gym with treadmills, weights, and aerobic mats. A library, curio shop stocked with local crafts, and a terraced viewing deck overlooking a vibrant waterhole enhance the experience. Twice-daily three-hour game drives in state-of-the-art vehicles, guided by expert rangers and trackers, deliver thrilling encounters with 86 mammal species, including cheetah, lion, and 420 bird varieties, alongside bush walks and wildlife photography. Located 265 km from Lanseria International Airport, Madikwe Hills blends unparalleled luxury with the majestic beauty of South Africa's diverse wilderness.
From £2430 per night
Fugitives' Drift Lodge, a five-star retreat on a 5,000-acre Natural Heritage Site in Zululand, overlooks the historic battlefields of Isandlwana and Rorke's Drift. Its breathtaking vistas and rich history create an unforgettable sanctuary. The lodge offers spacious rooms and a three-bedroom villa, each adorned with private verandahs showcasing sweeping views of the reserve and surrounding battlefields, complemented by en-suite bathrooms and tea-and-coffee facilities. The elegant accommodations blend refined comfort with the evocative heritage of the Anglo-Zulu War of 1879, including the site where Lieutenants Melvill and Coghill heroically perished to save their regiment's Queen's Colour. World-class battlefield tours bring the dramatic stories of Isandlwana and Rorke's Drift to life, offering profound insights into South Africa's storied past, guided by experts who illuminate the region's history with passion. The onsite restaurant serves superb cuisine paired with fine wines, while guests can unwind on sun loungers by the sparkling pool, soaking in the serene ambiance of the Zululand landscape. Abundant game and birdlife enrich the experience, with opportunities for hiking through the scenic surroundings, immersing guests in the area's natural beauty. Located in the heart of Zululand, Fugitives' Drift Lodge combines luxurious accommodation, exceptional dining, and awe-inspiring historical tours, delivering a once-in-a-lifetime journey into South Africa's captivating heritage.
From £660 per night
Woodall Country House & Spa, a luxurious five-star retreat on a serene citrus farm, offers an idyllic escape 65 km from Port Elizabeth. Adjacent to Addo Elephant Park, it captivates nature lovers and connoisseurs alike. The boutique hotel's 11 exceptionally spacious rooms, including suites with private pools, feature private verandas and outdoor showers overlooking picturesque gardens teeming with resident herons, cormorants, and rare waterbirds. Each room blends elegant comfort with modern amenities, creating a tranquil haven perfect for honeymooners seeking privacy and romance amidst the peaceful citrus orchards. The thatched dining room, with its award-winning Diner's Club Diamond cellar boasting a curated collection of fine South African wines, serves stylish regional cuisine inspired by freshly picked herbs, vegetables, and local ingredients. Guests can enjoy buffet-style breakfasts, poolside lunches, or dinners with water views, while relaxation areas like the library, sundowner deck, chill room, and indoor and outdoor lounges enhance the serene ambiance. The Citrus Spa, inspired by the surrounding orchards, offers unique treatments in a couple's therapy room, sauna, hydrobath, steam room, and Vichy shower, complemented by a gym. Daily safaris in open Landcruisers to Addo Elephant Park and nearby reserves like Schotia, Amakhala, Pumba, Kwantu, and Elephant Back Safaris provide thrilling wildlife encounters. Located close to Shamwari Game Reserve, Woodall delivers an exquisite blend of sophisticated indulgence and the natural allure of the Eastern Cape.
From £230 per night
Letamo at Qwabi Private Game Reserve, a luxurious retreat in South Africa's Waterberg region, blends mid-century modern elegance with vibrant African patterns. Its serene ambiance and expansive design create an inviting sanctuary. Each air-conditioned suite features a private patio, flat-screen television, minibar, kettle, and en-suite bathroom with complimentary toiletries, ensuring refined comfort amidst the reserve's natural beauty. The lodge's thoughtful decor, incorporating African artifacts, merges contemporary style with cultural richness, offering a tranquil escape for discerning travellers. The onsite restaurant serves exquisite cuisine, complemented by a stylish bar, while the outdoor pool, lush gardens, and spacious terrace provide serene spaces for relaxation. Guests can immerse themselves in the reserve's wilderness through expertly guided game drives and wellness treatments at the Letamo Spa, showcasing the region's diverse wildlife and landscapes. Located 26 km from Zebula Golf Course and Estate and 41 km from Elements Private Golf Reserve, Letamo offers complimentary private parking and seamless access to the surrounding attractions, delivering a sophisticated blend of luxury and untamed adventure in the heart of Qwabi Private Game Reserve.
From £335 per night
Long Lee Manor, a luxurious Edwardian-styled retreat in the malaria-free Shamwari Private Game Reserve, exudes timeless elegance amidst manicured gardens. Overlooking the vast African plains, it offers an intimate Big Five safari experience. The spacious rooms and suites, adorned with refined decor, feature air-conditioning, ceiling fans, satellite televisions, and tea-and-coffee facilities, ensuring sophisticated comfort. Each space blends classic charm with modern amenities, providing a serene haven that harmonises with the vibrant wildlife and sweeping vistas of the reserve. All-inclusive dining, encompassing breakfast, lunch, and dinner, is served in the elegant dining area or outdoors, showcasing exquisite cuisine paired with fine beverages. Morning and afternoon game drives in open vehicles, guided by expert rangers, include sunrise coffee and tea or sunset sundowner drinks, delivering thrilling encounters with the Big Five and the reserve's diverse fauna. For relaxation, the rim-flow pool overlooks a bustling waterhole, while three treatment rooms and a well-equipped fitness centre offer rejuvenation. A gift shop provides curated souvenirs. Located 75 km from Port Elizabeth and 45 km from Grahamstown, with shuttle services and a private landing strip available, Long Lee Manor seamlessly blends opulent heritage with the untamed allure of Shamwari's wilderness.
From £940 per night
Founders Lodge by Mantis, once the private residence of Mantis Collection visionary Adrian Gardiner, offers a luxurious retreat in South Africa's malaria-free Eastern Cape. Set on a 400-hectare reserve with direct access to the Big 5 Shamwari Game Reserve, it promises an intimate wilderness experience. The lodge's elegantly appointed accommodations overlook serene gardens, blending refined comfort with the untamed beauty of the surrounding bushveld. Each room is thoughtfully equipped with modern amenities, ensuring a restful stay, while complimentary private parking enhances convenience. Guests can unwind in the shared lounge, sip drinks at the sophisticated bar, or relax on the terrace beside the year-round outdoor pool, immersed in the tranquil ambiance. Exhilarating game drives on the adjacent Shamwari Game Reserve and guided walks across the private 400-hectare reserve offer immersive encounters with the region's iconic wildlife and pristine landscapes. The lodge's restaurant serves exquisite cuisine, showcasing fresh, local ingredients, with dining areas designed to complement the natural surroundings. A well-equipped gym is available for those seeking to stay active, and ironing facilities add a touch of thoughtful service. Surrounded by the Eastern Cape's breathtaking scenery, Founders Lodge provides a seamless blend of heritage and luxury. Located 26 km from Lalibela Private Game Reserve, 28 km from Bushman Sands Golf Course, and 88 km from Chief Dawid Stuurman International Airport, the lodge offers a paid airport shuttle service, ensuring effortless access to this exclusive safari haven.
From £585 per night