Safari Lodge - Amakhala Game Reserve
Amakhala Game Reserve 6130 South Africa
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#4 of 7 lodges in Amakhala Game Reserve
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Surrounded by indigenous bush, the stylish Safari Lodge is part of the 7500 ha, Big 5, malaria free, Amakhala Game Reserve. Safari Lodge is only 45 minutes from Port Elizabeth. African tribal design inspired the creation of this intimate thatched lodge, and eleven unique safari huts offer all the comforts. Soak in a luxurious double bath or splash off the dust in an outdoor shower before sharing your day's adventures around the fireside under a canopy of stars. On a recommended three day safari enjoy game drives with a professional guide in open Landrovers, sun downers on a river cruise and a visit to Addo National Elephant Park. Fair Trade in Tourism accredited.
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Property amenities
Free parking
Free internet
Pool
Free breakfast
Airport transportation
Concierge
Gift shop
Dry cleaning
Internet
Pool / beach towels
Pool with view
Outdoor pool
Bar / lounge
Restaurant
Breakfast buffet
Mosquito net
Outdoor fireplace
Outdoor furniture
Laundry service
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Bathrobes
Air conditioning
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Afrikaans
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Detailed Reviews
We were on our honeymoon, and safari lodge was the most fantastic way to start it off! The staff were incredibly attentive, particularly Jean luc who couldn’t do enough for us. The staff put flowers and champagne in our room, and we had a private meal one night. There is so much food every day, and it is lovely. The pools in each room are such a treat, and we had animals coming right outside our terrace every morning and night. There is food and drink in the room as well - not that you get much chance to eat or drink in there, there is so much on offer in the main dining area! An outdoor shower was also great. The game drives were fantastic, and we loved our sundown drinks at the end. We are so happy we went to safari, would recommend to anyone.
P.s. morning game drives were cold, even in January - take long trousers and a jumper/light jacket.
P.s. morning game drives were cold, even in January - take long trousers and a jumper/light jacket.
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Date of stay: January 2020Trip type: Travelled as a couple
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Bernie Tamboer, General Manager at Safari Lodge - Amakhala Game Reserve
Responded 02 Mar 2020
Dear valued guests Thank you so much for taking the time to rate us on TripAdvisor. We are so happy to hear you had such a lovely time at our lodge and that the staff met all your expectations. The plunge pools are very welcome, especially in January as it is very hot this time of the year and we are so happy you could make use of it. We will pass on your lovely compliments to all staff, especially Jean-Luke. Warm regards The Safari Lodge Team
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
+1
An absolutely fab experience from start to finish. Was met by the lovely Jean-Luke and Mandy and went to check into our beautiful lodge. Omggg right near the waterhole with our own plunge pool. The food was 5 star here with a menu choice for each meal, wine, beer or soft drinks with lunch and dinner and a mini bar in each lodge. We were so surprised one night as the staff made my sister a birthday cake and came out singing to her and we hadnt said it had been her birthday recently. The lodge was so comfortable with under floor heating and a fab outdoor shower, bath and lounge area. We took 6 game drives with the very pleasant, knowledgeable ranger Martin and we saw so many animals each time. The leopards and cheetahs were elusive but we saw 7 rhinos all together at one time including a baby, lions walked right near our jeep, I could go on forever it was sooo good. We had blankets and a hot water bottle on the morning drives which were very welcome until we got warmed up by the sun. Wifi worked great here and after our sundowner safari the firepits were lit so we could sit out with blankets and talk about our funfilled days. Jean-Luke is so much fun to be around he is a great guy and will go far, we miss him already. We cannot thank the staff enough for a fantastic safari experience which we hope to repeat sometime. If you are planning a safari you need AMAKHALA SAFARI LODGE you will not be disappointed.
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Date of stay: May 2022Trip type: Travelled with family
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
We had the absolute privilege of spending 2 very memorable nights at Amakhala Safari Lodge. From the minute we arrived, we were warmly welcomed by Lucille & Jean Luc, making us feel right at home.
We stayed in Lodge 1, where we had a perfect view of the watering hole and all the different game coming there at different times. Norman, the Elephant was a huge Wow Factor for us. Besides seeing him 2 mornings in a row at the watering hole, he came right by our lodge and put his trunk in the dip pool.
Martin, our game ranger was a wealth of knowledge and his incredible passion for the wildlife, birdlife and plant life, is so evident.
Jean Luc looked after us during all our meals and his service, friendliness was truly superb.
Lastly, the Chef, who prepared all of the outstanding meals, deserves a Special Thank You.
Look no further for the ultimate spoil at Amakhala Safari Lodge.
Nat & Greer
We stayed in Lodge 1, where we had a perfect view of the watering hole and all the different game coming there at different times. Norman, the Elephant was a huge Wow Factor for us. Besides seeing him 2 mornings in a row at the watering hole, he came right by our lodge and put his trunk in the dip pool.
Martin, our game ranger was a wealth of knowledge and his incredible passion for the wildlife, birdlife and plant life, is so evident.
Jean Luc looked after us during all our meals and his service, friendliness was truly superb.
Lastly, the Chef, who prepared all of the outstanding meals, deserves a Special Thank You.
Look no further for the ultimate spoil at Amakhala Safari Lodge.
Nat & Greer
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Date of stay: January 2021Trip type: Travelled as a couple
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Fantastic lodge and excellent guest service. Very friendly and supportive staff including the Rangers.
Food was excellent, rooms are very well maintained (showers could be better though) and clean. Staff and lodge take care of very minor details and are conscious of guest comfort.
The General Manager keeps a good eye on the details. Good job.
On the 4 Safaris we took it looked like some time was spent by the rangers in just moving around gor completing 3 hours schedule without actually attempting to show anything. This could be slightly better.
Special mention of our Butler Unapi. Extremely caring and pleasant person. Took good care.
Food was excellent, rooms are very well maintained (showers could be better though) and clean. Staff and lodge take care of very minor details and are conscious of guest comfort.
The General Manager keeps a good eye on the details. Good job.
On the 4 Safaris we took it looked like some time was spent by the rangers in just moving around gor completing 3 hours schedule without actually attempting to show anything. This could be slightly better.
Special mention of our Butler Unapi. Extremely caring and pleasant person. Took good care.
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Date of stay: May 2022Trip type: Travelled with family
Room Tip: Enjoy your time and have fun
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
We spent three nights as a family of four at Amakhala from Boxing day. We were really lucky to have our rooms opposite the watering hole so had magical moments watching Norman the resident elephant coming down for a drink as well as giraffes and several other animals. The rooms were lovely and comfortable and the staff all couldn't do enough for you. Jean-Luc our butler was lovely and really great with the boys. My biggest shout out goes to Martin our ranger who absolutely made the holiday for us on Safari. He is an encyclopedia of knowledge about the animals, the plants, the bugs, the soil types. He was incredibly patient with my boys with all their questions and they both couldn't stop talking about him. I was slightly worried my youngest Sam age 12 would get bored after a few game drives but he loved it all. We were very lucky to see an elephant chasing off a group of rhinos and had a memorable trip to Addo elephant park which was just fantastic.
Thanks Amakhala
Thanks Amakhala
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Date of stay: December 2019
Cleanliness
Sleep Quality
Room Tip: Get your room with view of watering hole
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from BernieT117, General Manager at Safari Lodge - Amakhala Game Reserve
Responded 03 Jan 2020
Good day Leeming family Thank you so much for taking the time to rate our beautiful lodge. We are so happy to hear about your lovely stay and that the staff looked after you so well. We will pass on your compliments to them, especially Martin and Jean-Luc. Warm regards The Safari Lodge Team
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
+1
Excellent in every way. Beyond expectation. Seamus was a super guide, very knowledgeable and fun! Accommodation in Zebra at Woodbury lodge was perfect, saw almost every animal on the sheet, enjoyed the night drive when the hippos were out. Food and staff delightful.
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Date of stay: February 2020
Rooms
Location
Service
Room Tip: Think all rooms are great, secluded and great views
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
We had spent the previous two weeks travelling across the Garden Route of South Africa but the main reason for travelling to South Africa was to go on a safari. We had chosen Amakhala due to previous positive recommendations from friends and we were not disappointed. Our expectations were not just met but surpassed by some way. From the moment we arrived we felt like we were being welcomed like family members. Our car was parked for us and luggage taken to our lodge. While we waited we were provided with welcome drinks, which we sipped whilst looking out over lush green land which was home to some inquisitive wart hogs and deer. In this far distance we could see the unmistakable silhouette of a giraffe, a remarkable sight. Our lodge, whilst had rustic charm, felt the perfect setting for a safari stay. A large double bed and living area with a sofa bed for our 9 year old daughter made up the main living area. You could then walk out on to your own patio/decking area, complete with chairs, loungers and a plunge pool, all over looking the wilderness. The bathroom consisted of a bath with a view and an outdoor shower. All game drives were included and excellent. Morning drives started with a hot drinks and muffins and evening drives included a drinks break where you could enjoy wine, beer or soft drinks with amazing views across the reserve. Our driver (Soni) was amazing. He always made every drive interesting and worked hard to ensure that everyone had a chance to try and see the animals of their choice. He was extremely good with our daughter (who was the only child) and let her ride up front whenever she wanted, which she loved. The lodge also provided guests with everything needed for drives including fleeces and ponchos, depending on the weather. On return from drives we were always welcomed with warm flannels and drinks and again were welcomed like family members. All meals were included and were always of a high standard. One evening we were provided with a traditional Braai where meat and veg were cooked over an open-fire which was lovely. All other meals are in the dining room area which was kept cosy with open fires for the chilly autumn evenings. The lodge was truly an amazing accommodation and made our safari trip even better then we'd envisaged and somewhere we'll never forget.
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Date of stay: April 2023
Value
Location
Service
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Bernie Tamboer, General Manager at Safari Lodge - Amakhala Game Reserve
Responded 20 Apr 2023
Good day Richard, Ruby and Yasmine Wow, what a lovely review that you have posted regarding your stay at our lodge. We really appreciate all the detail that you have put into it, explaining everything in such a manner that people may see the lodge and experience it all through your eyes! Thank you for taking the time to do so. We will be delighted to share this with all the staff, especially Soni you made sure you enjoyed seeing the wildlife and for being so considerate with your daughter. Warm regards The Safari Lodge Team
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
We thoroughly enjoyed our stay at this beautiful lodge and were made to feel very welcome by the warm and friendly staff who were attentive to our every need. It was clear that care was taken with the preparation and presentation of our meals which were all delicious and catered to our various tastes. The Lodge is beautifully appointed in a stunning setting and the rooms are comfortable and luxurious with many extra thoughtful touches to maximize guest experience. We had lots of fun in the private splash pools and loved “showering with nature” as well as the decadent bath! Last, but not least, was a wonderful game drive where we had some great sightings and learned a lot from our knowledgeable game ranger. We could not find fault with a single thing and will definitely visit again if we can!
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Date of stay: December 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
This place was just fantastic. Firstly the accommodation was very good. Private bungalows strung out along one side of a valley with a view of a watering hole. You can often see giraffes in the forest on the other side of the the valley. The rooms are large and well equipped. The food is very good too, and service friendly and efficient.
The reason you come here though is to see the wildlife. We had the same excellent guide each day, Sonny, who drove us round in a large vehicle with seats for 10 passengers however I don't think there were ever more than six on any one trip so we had bags of room. Sonny knocked himself out to find what we wanted to see and we saw far more than I expected to. Loads of zebras, giraffes warthogs etc but also elephants, rhinos, cheetahs, water buffalo. The highlight though was two female lions at a fresh kill with four cubs.
Amakhala is a private reserve and so doesn't feel that wild like I imagine the Serengti is, but it's still a fantastic experience. The other thing that really impressed me was that they only allow two vehicles close to the animals at one time. For the lions for example we had to wait 3 - 400 yards away until one vehicle had moved and we could replace it. I have seen film of parks where you have a single cheetah surrounded by 6 or 7 landrovers and the poor thing is completely disoriented. Doesn't happen here. So if it sometimes feels a bit managed it's definitely to the animals' benefit.
The reason you come here though is to see the wildlife. We had the same excellent guide each day, Sonny, who drove us round in a large vehicle with seats for 10 passengers however I don't think there were ever more than six on any one trip so we had bags of room. Sonny knocked himself out to find what we wanted to see and we saw far more than I expected to. Loads of zebras, giraffes warthogs etc but also elephants, rhinos, cheetahs, water buffalo. The highlight though was two female lions at a fresh kill with four cubs.
Amakhala is a private reserve and so doesn't feel that wild like I imagine the Serengti is, but it's still a fantastic experience. The other thing that really impressed me was that they only allow two vehicles close to the animals at one time. For the lions for example we had to wait 3 - 400 yards away until one vehicle had moved and we could replace it. I have seen film of parks where you have a single cheetah surrounded by 6 or 7 landrovers and the poor thing is completely disoriented. Doesn't happen here. So if it sometimes feels a bit managed it's definitely to the animals' benefit.
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Date of stay: March 2023Trip type: Travelled as a couple
Value
Location
Service
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Bernie Tamboer, General Manager at Safari Lodge - Amakhala Game Reserve
Responded 13 Apr 2023
Good day Thank you so much for such a lovely and detailed review regarding your stay at our lodge, we really appreciate your feedback. We will definitely pass on the compliments to Soni , chefs and the rest of the staff at the lodge. We are preserving nature and will never traumatise our animals and we are glad that you had first hand experience of how we go about in handling our safari sightings. We only use local fresh produce in our kitchen and that makes for the delicious meals you were served by our excellent chefs. Warm regards The Safari Lodge Team
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
A huge reserve which is run very efficiently, totally customer focused and very eager to please. The accommodation was luxurious very comfortably furnished. An outside additional shower but couldn’t use as many bees flying around - they had priority. We were without hot water for nearly 24 hours after arrival but this was eventually sorted. A lovely shower and huge bathtub. Thoughtful touches such as room insect spray, body insect repellant and a well stocked fridge with drinks and plentiful bottled water. The food was plentiful, frequent and sufficient selection. The singing and dancing by the staff was lovely and the staff were very kind. The game drives started at 6am and 4pm each for 3 hours. Our game ranger was superb and very knowledgeable, experienced and thoughtful but with a sprinkling of humour. We saw so many wonderful wild animals and learned about their characteristics and how they survived. About midway each game drive we stopped and were offered refreshments. I did need to sit in the front of the vehicle as it was an incredibly bumpy ride at times which did jar my back. Sitting at the front was so much better. We were at Hlosi in a lodge rather than a tented accommodation. Lovely memories.
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Date of stay: October 2023Trip type: Travelled as a couple
Room Tip: Sit at the front of the safari vehicle.
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Sorry, Adam, for the belated response. I have only now come accross your query.
At our lodge we have have had many LGBT couples staying without any issues and would welcome you and your partner for our special honeymoon package.
Best wishes Mike
Good day
Thank you for wanting to visit us, we are looking forward to meet you.
You need to bring warm clothing, fleece top, jacket, beanie and scarfs along as the safari can get quite cold especially the afternoon safari. We do supply lovely ponchos and rain ponchos to make sure you are comfortable but always a good idea to have extras along.
Hope this answer helps.
Warm regards
The Safari Lodge Team
Good day
Yes, we have heating in all the rooms. We have underfloor heating and a air conditioning system that can be set on hot or cold weather dependent of course.
If needed we also make fires in the lounge and dining areas to keep guest warm during meal times.
Hope that set your mind at ease that your stay will warm and comfortable.
Kind regards
Bernie
Rooms 1-3 are right in front of the watering hole. I think other rooms would still have a view but not as good.
Hi, thank you for contacting us with your question about tips. There isn't really a standard rate for tipping butlers and rangers. The tips range between a couple of hundred rand to a couple of thousand. The standard when tipping in a restaurant in South Africa is a minimum of 10%. What you tip is very much a personal choice, and to know that whatever you do tip is very much appreciated. "Tips make the world go round!!"
"Be prepared for the rough access road to the lodge. Be prepared to see the animals up close and personal."Read full review
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PRICE RANGE
R 11,615 - R 12,261 (Based on Average Rates for a Standard Room)
LOCATION
South AfricaEastern CapeAmakhala Game Reserve
NUMBER OF ROOMS
11
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Frequently Asked Questions about Safari Lodge - Amakhala Game Reserve
What are some of the property amenities at Safari Lodge - Amakhala Game Reserve?
Some of the more popular amenities offered include free breakfast, a pool, and an on-site restaurant.
Which room amenities are available at Safari Lodge - Amakhala Game Reserve?
Top room amenities include a minibar, air conditioning, and a refrigerator.
What food & drink options are available at Safari Lodge - Amakhala Game Reserve?
Guests can enjoy free breakfast, an on-site restaurant, and a lounge during their stay.
Is parking available at Safari Lodge - Amakhala Game Reserve?
Yes, free parking is available to guests.
Are there opportunities to exercise at Safari Lodge - Amakhala Game Reserve?
Yes, guests have access to a pool during their stay.
Does Safari Lodge - Amakhala Game Reserve have airport transportation?
Yes, Safari Lodge - Amakhala Game Reserve offers airport transportation for guests. We recommend calling ahead to confirm details.
Are any cleaning services offered at Safari Lodge - Amakhala Game Reserve?
Yes, dry cleaning and laundry service are offered to guests.