Plus 1 night freeStay 4 nights for the price of 3. Valid 7 September to 31 December 2024.
Loadshedding Proof
Samara Karoo Reserve is a highly recommended Eastern Cape game lodge providing a wildlife experience for discerning anyone visiting Karoo Heartland.
Samara Private Game Reserve, nestled in the malaria-free Eastern Cape, invites you to step away from the rush of everyday life, offering a tranquil setting to pause, breathe, and reflect. Here, you'll discover the inviting Karoo Lodge, providing exceptional accommodation near Graaff-Reinet.
The captivating beauty of this delicate landscape is what first inspired Samara’s mission of restoration and renewal. Since 1997, the focus has been on realizing the full potential of this diverse region. Spanning four of South Africa’s seven biomes, the reserve is also the center of an ambitious game reintroduction program, including the critically endangered cheetah, returning it to its rightful habitat.
Experience the Africa of your dreams, where spectacular sunsets and vast starry skies meet 70,000 protected acres in the heart of the Great Karoo.
What to expect at the lodge/reserve
Samara offers accommodation with colonial charm and comfort at Karoo Lodge and The Manor. Relax on the broad wrap-around veranda, cool off in the pool, or enjoy a soothing in-room massage.
For a more secluded, off-grid safari experience that focuses on walking safaris and connecting with nature, the Plains Camp tented suites are available for a couple or for a group of up to eight guests in four tents.
Please refer to the detailed descriptions and photographs below to choose the accommodation that suits you best.
The unforgettable Star Bed on the Milk River offers a breathtaking wilderness experience. Available to guests who have booked to stay at Karoo Lodge or The Manor, this romantic outdoor adventure provides stunning views as the night sky comes alive. Enjoy a picnic-style dinner beneath the stars, with mohair blankets to keep you warm as you drift off to sleep. Wake up to the sound of birds and witness a beautiful sunrise in the Karoo – a perfect start to another day in Africa.
Savor the delights of the Karoo Kitchen, where traditional influences are given a modern twist. Meals are served in stunning indoor and outdoor locations, creating a dining experience that’s both unique and unforgettable.
Led by professional guides, you will have the rare opportunity to encounter the endangered cheetah up close, offering an exclusive interaction with these majestic creatures.
Explore the untouched Plains of Camdeboo, where herds of antelope roam freely, or take in the stunning views from the mountain plateau, home to the endangered Cape Mountain Zebra. For history enthusiasts, fossils predating the dinosaurs and well-preserved Bushman paintings offer a fascinating glimpse into the Earth's ancient past.
Children can enjoy special game drives tailored to shorter attention spans, learning to spot the ‘funny five’ or participate in outdoor activities, including track identification, African arts and crafts, orienteering, and more.
On arrival, children are welcomed into the Samara Cubs Programme, offering a range of exciting and educational activities for all ages, from toddlers to teens.
Guided by experienced staff, children engage in a variety of activities tailored to their age, such as learning about tracking, painting like the Khoi-San, carving walking sticks, storytelling, and Spekboom planting. Each child receives a goodie bag filled with treats and activities to enrich their experience. The bush serves as an outdoor classroom, where young explorers learn about the many creatures we share the planet with, from bugs to the “Funny Five.”
Older children can partake in more adventurous activities such as air rifle target practice, bush walks, and overnight trails, while Big Five territory walks are reserved for those aged 16 and over. These thrilling experiences often include parents, creating opportunities for the entire family to reconnect in the wild beauty of the Great Karoo.
What is loadshedding? It refers to the temporary suspension of electricity provided by Eskom, South Africa's electricity provider, to reduce consumption and thereby the load on the national grid. To compensate, South African property owners are turning to solar power, inverters with backup batteries or in some cases generators to keep the power on, wherever feasible.
Select your check-in and check-out dates to view availability and the rates applicable.
The Karoo Lodge offers two standalone Karoo Family Suites, each designed to provide a perfect retreat for families or small groups. Each suite features two en-suite bedrooms connected by a shared living room, creating a spacious and comfortable environment. Every bedroom opens onto a private wraparound veranda, complete with an outdoor shower, allowing guests to enjoy the stunning views of the surrounding landscape. The suites are equipped with a range of modern comforts, including complimentary Wi-Fi, air conditioning, and a cozy sitting area. A fireplace ensures warmth during the cooler months, while a desk offers a convenient workspace for those who need it. Guests can also benefit from a safe for secure storage, and enjoy thoughtful touches such as daily cleaning service, wake-up calls, and turn-down service. Both suites are wheelchair accessible and provide breathtaking mountain views, making them ideal for guests seeking comfort and natural beauty. In the bathroom, luxury amenities are provided, including a hairdryer, separate bathtub and shower, as well as plush bathrobes and slippers for added relaxation. Each suite is also equipped with coffee and tea-making facilities, as well as a minibar, allowing guests to unwind at their own pace. Outside, the private patio offers a peaceful space furnished with comfortable seating and an outdoor dining area, perfect for taking in the serene Karoo surroundings.
Qty: 2
Sleeps: 4 guests (max 4 adults)
Children: from 0-12 years are allowed; over 12 years treated as adults
The Karoo Lodge features eight standalone Karoo Suites, each offering a private retreat within the lodge's tranquil grounds. Every suite includes a spacious bedroom and en-suite bathroom, complete with a private wraparound veranda and outdoor shower, allowing guests to take in the magnificent views of the surrounding landscape. The suites are thoughtfully equipped with modern comforts, including complimentary Wi-Fi, air conditioning, and a comfortable sitting area. Guests can also enjoy the warmth of a fireplace, making it an inviting space during cooler evenings. Each suite provides a desk for those who need to work during their stay, along with a safe for securing personal belongings. Additional conveniences such as cleaning services, wake-up calls, and turn-down service ensure a seamless experience. Designed with accessibility in mind, the suites are wheelchair friendly and offer beautiful mountain views, enhancing the connection to the natural surroundings. In the bathroom, guests will find a selection of luxury amenities, including a hairdryer, a separate bathtub and shower, as well as plush bathrobes and slippers for added comfort. The coffee and tea facilities, along with a minibar, provide refreshments at your convenience. Outdoors, the private patio is furnished with comfortable seating and an outdoor dining area, offering the perfect spot to relax and soak in the serene Karoo ambiance.
Qty: 8
Sleeps: 2 guests (max 2 adults)
Children: from 0-12 years are allowed; over 12 years treated as adults
The Manor offers a spacious and elegant suite, featuring a beautifully appointed bedroom and a luxurious bathroom equipped with both a separate bath and shower. Air-conditioning ensures a comfortable stay year-round, while the private patio, complete with outdoor seating, provides a serene space to unwind amidst nature. Guests of the suite also have access to a shared living room, dining room, bar, lounging alcove, and a refreshing pool, enhancing their stay with ample relaxation options. This suite is designed to offer modern comforts, including complimentary Wi-Fi, air conditioning, and a cozy sitting area. A desk is provided for convenience, and guests can enjoy added luxuries such as daily cleaning service, wake-up calls, and turn-down service. Safety is ensured with a secure in-room safe, and the suite is equipped with a telephone for any additional needs. Wheelchair accessibility ensures that all guests can comfortably enjoy the space, which also offers peaceful garden views. In the bathroom, indulgent amenities such as a hairdryer, separate bathtub and shower, soft bathrobes, and plush slippers add a touch of elegance. For in-room refreshments, guests can enjoy the coffee and tea-making facilities. Outdoors, the private patio is furnished with comfortable seating and an outdoor dining area, creating a perfect space for relaxation and dining al fresco.
Qty: 4
Sleeps: 2 guests (max 2 adults)
Children: not allowed in this room type
This off-grid safari experience is designed to immerse you in the natural world, offering walking safaris that emphasize reconnection with nature in an atmosphere of understated elegance. Each Tented Suite features a comfortable bedroom, en-suite bathroom, and an outdoor shower, allowing you to fully appreciate the surrounding wilderness. The suite also includes a cozy fireplace and a seating area, creating a tranquil space to relax after a day of exploration. The Tented Suites are non-smoking and thoughtfully designed with a spacious sitting area and a desk for added convenience. Guests can enjoy daily cleaning services, while the warmth of a fireplace and turn-down service ensures a relaxing retreat each evening. The suites also boast breathtaking mountain views, adding to the serene ambiance. In the bathroom, you'll find a refreshing shower, complemented by plush bathrobes and slippers for added comfort. Coffee and tea-making facilities are available to enjoy a hot drink at your leisure. Outdoors, the private patio is furnished with comfortable seating, offering the perfect spot to relax and soak in the natural surroundings.
Qty: 4
Sleeps: 2 guests (max 2 adults)
Children: not allowed in this room type
RATES INCLUDE:
Luxury Accommodation
All Meals
Game Drives
RATES EXCLUDE:
Quoted rates exclude conservation contribution which funds vital conservation & community projects through Samara's registered public benefit organisation
3 Reviews from SA-Venues.com travellers. All reviews are verified.
Verified review
Although there is not as much game as at some reserves Samara is a great place. Nice surroundings, pleasant, helpful staff. Good rangers who were particularly good with children. I would definitely go back.
December 2019
David K. (Cumbria, UK)
Verified review
Simply heaven. A privilege to be able to share such a wonderful place. It really was such a pleasure and we are in total admiration of the wonderful achievements you are making here.
December 2018
Gary & Katrina (London)
Response timeSamara Karoo Reserve typically responds to requests in 5-10 minutes.
Child policyChildren of all ages are welcome.
At the Manor, children under 14 are not permitted unless the Manor has been booked exclusively. Cots and high-chairs are available on request.
Closest airport(s)Port Elizabeth Airport - 293km
Check-in/-out timesCheck-in from 14h00
Check-out by 11h00
Payment methods accepted by the property Mastercard, Visa, American Express, Diners, EFT or secure online payment via SA-Venues.com
Host on SA-Venues.com for 9 years
Find out more about Graaff Reinet as a destination
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