Kariega Game Reserve River Lodge

An absolutely outstanding safari experience with some special extras (such as a trip to the beach) thrown in. Every member of staff went above and beyond to make us feel looked after and a special shout out to Kyran for his efforts to tailor our experience and for sharing his wisdom about the bush and all the flora and fauna within it.

The accommodation was great, very nice staff. Our guide Forrest was amazing! We learnt so much about the animals and he went above and beyond. There was also the lovely opportunity to take a boat ride down to the beach which was thoroughly enjoyable!

Firstly, Hanna and her her team were excellent and stayed 4 nights .. 8 game drives .. Accomodation and food and choice of drinks excellent. Service Excellent .. no issues … Game Drives .. excellent. .. saw all Animals except one which eluded us .. even though we could see trackings .. Highlight .. Midnight drive from one lodge to other .. very exhilarating but petrifying too .. but our Ranger Osi, Had it in control .. Night Sky and Animals at night .. just breathtaking.. Between the Game drives .. Went on boat cruise to the beach and swim in Indian ocean .. and Osi kindly taught me to fish .. ! Something I wanted to learn !! (Didn’t catch anything but was perfect was to spend the afternoon) Had a Spa treatment .. again very good .. Last night we had a SA “Bri” .. BBQ … and had visitors .. giraffes came to see what was going on .. just lovely .. Pool warm .. and mixture of sun facing loungers to shades .. I think in the end it was the team .. led by Hannah … who had Guests in forefront .. relaxation and comfort .. that makes the River Lodge .. little things that made it for me .. small touches .. like any resort there will be improvements they can make .. but to me I enjoyed my stay and would definitely recommend it .. they looked after me for sure .. Will be coming back soon .. unfinished Photo with one Animal ! Thank you River Lodge wonderful memories and life long friends created ..

Amazing couple of days spent at Kariega. Stayed at the River Lodge, beautiful room with a view of a watering hole that attracted Impalas, Warthogs and Giraffes. The staff were extremely helpful and nothing was too much trouble. Special thanks to Aussie who took us on our game drives and a great boat trip to the Indian Ocean. He was very knowledgeable, professional and took time to share his experience with us. Would definitely recommend Kariega.

Unreal few days at Kariega River Lodge We spent three nights at Kariega River Lodge this March and honestly, it was one of the most memorable experiences we’ve ever had. From start to finish, everything was just top class. The lodge itself is gorgeous — really comfy, spotlessly clean, and set in such a peaceful, scenic spot. It’s the kind of place where you instantly feel relaxed. The game drives were incredible — we saw lions, rhinos, buffalo, loads of antelope, and the absolute highlight was watching a group of elephants splashing around in the watering hole. Our guide Forest was brilliant — full of knowledge, fun, and made every drive feel special. The early weren’t as bad as expected. The food was really tasty — nothing overly fancy, but just good, hearty meals that hit the spot after a long day out in the bush. We also managed to sneak in a bit of pampering at the spa — I had a facial and a massage, both were absolutely lovely and well worth doing if you get the chance. The staff were all so friendly and helpful, and you could tell everyone there genuinely loves what they do. It made the whole stay feel really personal and warm. We’d go back in a heartbeat and would 100% recommend it to friends or anyone thinking of doing a safari.

My wife and I stayed here for three days as part of our 40th wedding anniversary celebrations. What a great choice. The food, wine and staff were excellent. Nadine and the team made us feel very special. Our ranger, Leigh, was fantastic - very friendly and knowledgable - over several game drives he got us close up to all the animals we wanted to see. His attention to detail and tracking skills were impressive. Sad to be leaving.