Location:- One of the continent's southernmost game reserves lies in the heart of South Africa's Eastern Cape; a district rich in history and blessed with abundant natural beauty. Kwandwe Private Game Reserve stretches along 42 kilometres of the Great Fish River and each of the luxurious glass and thatch suites overlooks its lush riverbanks. It is a river of great historical significance, as it was a hotly contested border during the Frontier Wars of 1779-1878 between the Settlers (and the Dutch farmers) and the Xhosa nation. The river has created a flourishing habitat for rare and endangered species like the Blue Crane. Kwandwe aptly means "Place of the Blue Crane" in Xhosa and the reserve is home to a stable population of these beautiful birds.

At a glance:

• Accommodation - Capacity - 16 guests
• 9 luxurious glass and thatch suites
• Separate, historic 6-bed farmhouse
• Swimming pool
• Overlooks the winding Great Fish River
• Unique, sub-tropical thicket vegetation
• Rich 1820 Settler-history
• Thousands of wild animals
• Big Five game
• A haven for endangered animals
• Thousands of ancient rock paintings in the region
• Game drives, guided river walks, bush sundowners and picnics
• 24 hour electricity
• Malaria free destination
• A true african safari

Accommodation:- Kwandwe Game Lodge consists of nine luxurious suites, set high up on the banks of the Great Fish River. Each thatch and glass chalet has a private plunge pool and observation deck with spectacular views over the river valley. A mix of Settler and Xhosa décor is characterised by a subtle blend of earth-toned fabrics, indigenous timber, artefacts and antiques.
Uplands Homestead offers an alternative experience of Kwandwe Private Game Reserve and is perfect for those for whom privacy is paramount. It is ideal for a group or family of six people. The 1905 farmhouse combines modern touches with classic architecture and the private balconies and full size swimming pool with gazebo ensure a comfortably luxurious stay.

Activities:- Twice-daily game drives in open 4x4 safari vehicles (children up to 5-years-old not permitted on game drives, aged 6-11 permitted at the Lodge Manager's and ranger's discretion). Other activities are bush sundowners, dinners on the banks of the Great Fish River, picnics in the Reserve, guided river-walking/hiking and canoeing, fishing, rhino tracking, visits to hides and Pioneer cultural storytelling evenings. Walking in Kwandwe Private Game Reserve is a unique way of experiencing the wild. Hiking along the river or in the valley is permitted only with a guide and is especially rewarding for those interested in birds, vegetation and folklore. Additional excursions are wide-ranging and can be adapted to special
interests: These include a tour of rock paintings, stone tools and artefacts in the Valley of the Ancient Voices, or a trip to nearby Grahamstown to explore the museums and historical homes. For those with an interest in military history, the area surrounding Kwandwe was the battleground for ongoing Frontier Wars from 1779 to 1880 and is peppered with military
graveyards, war memorabilia, forts, museums and military towns such as Fort Beaufort. Further tours explore the culture of the Xhosa people, their myths and legends and oral history, as well as their political development, dating from the mission schools of the 1820s. Scenic Wild Coast flights can also be
arranged. You may track rhino on foot under the guidance of an experienced ranger. It is also possible to go on polo or golf tours in the vicinity of Kwandwe Private Game Reserve

Wildlife:- The massive and ambitious wildlife reintroduction programme at Kwandwe is now virtually complete, with all of the large mammals historically known to occur here, once again roaming free. For the first time in over 100 years, Elephant, Lion, Cheetah, Buffalo and Black Rhino wander free in this reborn wilderness. Giraffe, Zebra, Greater Kudu and several other antelope are resident and regularly seen. Of particular interest are the many unusual nocturnal mammals which are regularly encountered on night drives; these include the comical Aardvark, termite-eating Aardwolf, Bat-eared Fox and Springhare. This is also the home of the sociable and entertaining Suricates (or Meerkats) which live in close-knit family groups.

Access:- Kwandwe Game Lodge and Uplands Homestead are easily accessible by private charters into the strip on Kwandwe, from where a representative will collect you and transfer you to the lodge. Kwandwe is perfect for self-drive clients. Port Elizabeth is a one-and-a-half hour drive from Kwandwe and has a national airport. Flying time from Port Elizabeth is 30-40 minutes. Driving from Port Elizabeth or East London will take approximately one-and-a-three-quarter hours. Kwandwe is 20 minutes from Grahamstown and one-and-a-three-quarter hours from Port Elizabeth & East London.

Child Policy:- Kwandwe Game Lodge: Children over 12 are welcome. Uplands Homestead: all children are welcome.

Power supply:- There is 24 hour electricity to all rooms.