AQUILA PRIVATE GAME RESERVE
GARDEN ROUTE GAME LODGE
INVERDOORN
R46, TOUWS RIVER
N2, ALBERTINIA
021 422 0013, inverdoorn.com
021 430 7260, aquilasafari.com
028 735 1200, grgamelodge.co.za
This southern Karoo conservancy has been described as ‘a blend of dirty-boot adventure, luxury accommodation and wildlife education’. The cherry on top is the horseback safari, which can be combined with a game drive for a full day spent out in the bush.
This award-winning lodge conveniently situated on the picturesque Garden Route offers all the trimmings that family safari holidays are made of. A stay here is bound to be memorable, with a great chance of spotting the big five and other wildlife including zebra, impala, wildebeest and eland. Whether you book a suite, room or chalet, an impeccable experience is guaranteed.
If you’re short on time, Inverdoorn is a great place to see the big five just a few hours from Cape Town. It’s also home to the Western Cape Cheetah Conservation programme, which protects and ensures the longevity of these swift cats. Naturally, cheetah encounters are at the top of the agenda here.
DE HOOP NATURE RESERVE OVERBERG 021 422 4522, dehoopcollection.com
Just three hours’ drive away from Cape Town, De Hoop Nature Reserve is one of the world’s most biologically diverse sanctuaries. Covering some 35 000 ha, the reserve remains a favourite destination for hikers, birders and botanists. Book one of the self-catering cottages (the Opstal Manor House or the newer Lekkerwater Beach Lodge) and enjoy guided marine and fynbos walks, stargazing trips and birdwatching excursions.
R356, BREEDE RIVER
R327, HERBERTSDALE, NEAR MOSSEL BAY 021 555 0807, gondwanagr.co.za
Set within 11 000 ha of untouched fynbos, Gondwana is home to the big five and endangered species such as the Cape mountain zebra and black rhino. Since there are no internal fences (save for conservation purposes), there’s a good chance of spotting game from your suite.
PRINCE ALBERT
Nestled in the heart of the Great Karoo, a five-hour drive from the city, this 5 000 ha ecotourism hotspot offers not only the chance of ethical interaction with the throngs of wildlife on the reserve, but also the promise of endless horizons and starstudded night skies. Spend your nights in one of the three accommodation options available – the Explorer Camp for the rough and the rugged, the Manor House for the mod-con savvy, or the Safari Lodge for a mishmash of the two.
ROVOS RAIL
PHOTOGRAPHY: GALLO/GETTYIMAGES
PLACES TO EXPLORE NEAR CAPE TOWN AND BEYOND
ROAM PRIVATE GAME RESERVE 015 793 0259, roam-karoo.co.za
GONDWANA GAME RESERVE
G E T AW AY S
SANBONA WILDLIFE RESERVE R62, MONTAGU 021 010 0028, sanbona.com
Covering 58 000 ha of wilderness at the foot of the Warmwaterberg, between Montagu and Barrydale, Sanbona is home to a group of rare white lions. Once you have had your fill of game viewing, you can retreat to the privacy and grandeur of accommodation in the reserve’s luxury tents or lodges, fitted with every creature comfort.
CAPE POINT
1 ADDERLEY STREET, CBD
021 780 9010, capepoint.co.za
021 421 4020, rovos.com
Situated within the southern section of Table Mountain National Park, Cape Point is a firm fixture on any Mother City itinerary. Sheer cliffs towering more than 200 m above sea level provide a breathtaking perspective of the park’s biodiversity. Relish a meal at the Two Oceans Restaurant after you’ve enjoyed a day of exploration.
For a hotel experience with a difference, Rovos Rail is just the ticket. Step into reconditioned wood-panelled cabins and indulge in five-star cuisine as you travel cross-country, with packages offering between three- and 15-day journeys. Unwind in a Royal, Deluxe or Pullman Suite, then dress up for the evenings to embrace the romantic old-world luxury the train brings back to life.
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