Kariega Settlers Drift Lodge

The malaria-free Big 5 private game reserve of Kariega is set in the pristine wilderness of the Kariega River Valley in the Eastern Cape. The picturesque Kariega and Bushmans Rivers border the Kariega Game Reserve. Covering 10,000ha of beautiful and diverse bushveld, it offers abundant game including lion, elephant, buffalo, rhino, hippo, hyena, giraffe, zebra, and numerous antelope species. And located in an untouched part of Kariega is Settlers Drift, a unique tented safari camp offering 5-star luxury.

Settlers Drift Lodge comprises nine spacious tented suites, each with stunning views and secluded viewing decks. Gazing down from the decks overlooking the Bushman's River, it feels as if time has stood still. Back in 1820, the Settlers first discovered this valley as they guided their wagons across the river. Hence the camp’s name...

Accommodation at Kariega Settlers Drift

This luxuriously appointed tented lodge offers a stylish and contemporary ambience with a restaurant, bar, wine cellar, swimming pool, and library. Enjoy alfresco dinners in the lantern-lit boma at night. Or treat yourself with a range of spa treatments between the morning and afternoon game activities. The suites are vast, over 110sqm with glass walls that can be opened up to the bush. Each has a sitting area with a fireplace for winter and air-conditioning for summer as well as a large dressing room area. The lovely semi-open-plan bathroom offers a bath with a view, an indoor rain shower, double basins, and a separate loo.

As well as morning and evening open vehicle game drives, Kariega offers walking close to abundant plains game and arrival by river cruises. Plus other activities include canoeing, fly-fishing, and birding. The birdlife along the riverbanks is excellent with martial and crowned eagles soaring above you and the plaintiff cry of the fish eagle often heard. The nearby sandy beaches of Kenton-on-Sea are less than 15 minutes drive away. Alternatively, you can just relax by the pool or on your spacious deck and do absolutely nothing!