Are all the lodges fenced?
All three villas are surrounded by a discreet perimeter fence to allow children to play in safety. Of the two lodges, Ecca Lodge is fenced; Great Fish River Lodge has an elephant electric fence around the lodge.
How do I book my safari?
You are welcome to book online, contact our reservations team or book through your trusted travel planner. Should you need assistance in recommending a travel planner, please let us know.
How do the lodges differ and are they of the same quality?
Kwandwe offers 2 game lodges and 3 sole-use villas, all located in private corners of the reserve. The lodges and villas offer the same level of quality and service, but differ in style, location and lifestyle needs; for example, the villas are ideal for families whereas the lodges are suited to couples. View the accommodation options here.
How far is the airport?
Port Elizabeth (PE) has the nearest national airport, located 160 km (100 miles) from the reserve. View the different ways of getting to the reserve here.
How old should children be to enjoy a safari?
Although children of all ages are welcome at Kwandwe, the ideal age for children to fully appreciate a safari is generally 5 years and older. View our activities and accommodation options for families here.
Is the tap water drinkable?
We do not recommend drinking the tap water on the reserve; bottled mineral water as well as purified water is provided.
Is there Wi-Fi?
Guest rooms in all lodges and villas offer complimentary Wi-Fi.
What animals can I expect to see?
Although Kwandwe is a Big Five safari destination, the term is a bit antiquated. Apart from the Big 5 (black and white rhino, elephant, lion, buffalo and leopard), as well as a remarkable variety of predators and general game including cheetah, kudu, springbok, eland, red hartebeest, giraffe, hippopotamus, blue wildebeest and gemsbok, Kwandwe is also home to many smaller and unusual species such as aardwolf, aardvark, caracal, bat-eared fox, porcupine and Cape clawless otter. For bird lovers, 306 species have been identified on the reserve.
What do I need to pack?
View our suggested packing list here. Keep it light and avoid bright colours, and only bring your camera. We have binoculars for use; please enquire. If you are planning to fly to Kwandwe, opt for soft luggage as it will be easier to pack in the overhead compartment. We offer a daily complimentary laundry service, so packing fewer clothes is not a problem.
Dress for game drives in layers as you will want to adjust from cool mornings to midday heat, and bring a waterproof jacket. We suggest packing a waterproof bag for your camera as you will be in an open-top vehicle.
What do the rates include?
All rates include twice daily game drives, nature walks accompanied by an armed ranger, big game walking safari (tracking white rhino, black rhino, elephant and buffalo on foot, accompanied by an armed specialist ranger and tracker team; subject to availability), three meals daily, a selection of South African premium and sparkling wines, local and premium brand spirits, beers, soft drinks, teas and coffees, refreshments on game drives, laundry, emergency medical evacuation insurance, VAT, transfers to and from the reserve airstrip and complimentary child-minding.
Excluded from rates are the nightly community and conservation levy, in-room massage treatments, telephone calls, safari shop purchases, gratuities, all items of a personal nature, imported champagne, cigars and additional specialised safari activities. View the full rates here.
What is the weather like?
We adjust our safari schedule seasonally, so in summer months game drives start earlier and return during the heat of the day. In winter, drives depart after breakfast and stay out for most of the day, often with lunch on the reserve, returning before the evening chill sets in.
When is the best time to go on safari?
Game viewing in the Eastern Cape is excellent year round. Weather patterns differ from northern reserves such as the Kruger.
What medicine should I take?
Kwandwe is located in the Eastern Cape province of South Africa, which is a malaria-free area. No other medication is required.
Which credit cards are accepted?
Visa and MasterCard are both accepted.