Boasting a ruggedly beautiful coast, lush tropical forests and the arid plains of the Valley of Desolation, you wouldn’t be wrong for saying that a bush break in the Eastern Cape has it all. There are plenty of nature and game reserves in the Eastern Cape to keep both nature lovers and bush enthusiasts well entertained. Spot the Big 5 (lion, leopard, buffalo, elephant and rhino) on an early morning or evening game drive, which the best time to spot these animals as they emerge before or after the heat of the day. Most of the parks allow self-drive although we highly recommend a guided tour as the insights the experienced rangers can give you really heighten the bush experience. 

Game Reserves in the Eastern Cape to visit: 

Addo Elephant National Park – Just north of Gqeberha, set within the dense bushveld of the Sundays River region, lies Addo Elephant National Park. Addo holds the title of being the home of the Big 7- lion, elephant, rhino, buffalo, leopard, southern right whale and the great white shark. Addo is most famous for its elephants of which there are over 600. Accommodation in Addo ranges from tented camps to luxury lodges.  

Amakhala Game Reserve – Conveniently located just 50 minutes from Gqeberha this spectacular game reserve is the perfect chance to spot the Big 5 under the guidance of their professional game rangers. You can expect a variety of safari-style accommodation from 3- to 5-star experiences. Amakhala offers day safaris, horse trails, guided walking safaris and weddings. Enjoy a malaria-free luxury bush break at Amakhala.  

Hopewell Private Game Reserve – This 5 star private Africa lodge not only offers you luxury accommodation but it also boasts sweeping views over grassland and forest. A limited number of guests adds to the exclusive feel of Hopewell and this is most felt when on your private guided safari undisturbed by other game vehicles and viewers.  

Kariega Private Game Reserve – Spot the Big 5 on this family-owned-and-run private game reserve. Enjoy breathtaking views over rolling hills and twisting valleys with rivers. Experience the thrill of a lion hunt or spot a family of elephants taking a stroll. Sip your sundowner at the lodge and drink in the sights and sounds of the bush. 

Shamwari Private Game Reserve - Shamwari, “my friend” in Shona, is a private game reserve synonymous with luxury. This world-class setting encourages guests to exist in harmony with nature. Shamwari’s accommodation consists of 7 safari lodges and 1 tented camp, each providing a unique bush break experience. Enjoy guided safaris at sunrise and sunset.