| Weather |
Our summer (October to March) is usually hot and wet, with a rainfall of around 400 – 550 mm. The winter months of April to September tend to be a little cooler, but still warm, and dry. |
| Temperature |
Daytime temperatures in summer (October to March) are high and may soar above 36°C/ 97°F. Winter (May to August) is known to produce beautiful warm days, though the evenings and early mornings can be very chilly. |
| Best time to travel |
Game viewing at Kwandwe is excellent year round. |
| Altitude |
250 – 490m/ 820-1574ft above sea level. |
| Vegetation |
Kwandwe’s vast landscape is affected by the ocean, with south-facing slopes capturing moisture from the sea breezes, resulting in denser or taller vegetation and brightly coloured lichens. In contrast, the north-facing slopes tend to be drier and more open and feature striking aloes, which flower in spectacular profusion during the winter months (June to August). Forest-like thickets of tree euphorbia grow on the steep, south-facing slopes. These spiny plants are immune to destruction from most animal species (except the black rhino) thanks to the poisonous milky latex they exude. |
| Airstrip |
Kwandwe has a 2.1 km Category 3 tarred runway. GPS Coordinates are available on request. |
| Getting to Kwandwe |
Kwandwe is approximately 160 km (100 miles) from Gqeberha (Port Elizabeth), a two-hour drive or approximately 40 minutes by private charter or helicopter. View our Access Guide here. |
| Self-Drive Guests |
We recommend travelling via the R67 and do not recommend travelling via the R350. Guests arriving by self-drive should proceed directly to Heatherton Towers, Kwandwe’s reception and arrival point, where secure parking is provided before transferring to their lodge or villa by safari vehicle. |
| Road Conditions |
The final stretch of road after turning off the R67 is gravel but generally suitable for 2WD vehicles. A vehicle with slightly higher ground clearance is recommended where possible. |
| Mobile Signal & Navigation |
Mobile signal can be intermittent in rural areas and on the final approach to the reserve. We recommend downloading offline maps or saving directions before departure. |
| What to Pack |
We recommend packing light, comfortable clothing in neutral colours, comfortable walking shoes, a hat, sunscreen and a camera. A warm layer is essential throughout the year, particularly for morning and evening game drives. Daily laundry is included, allowing guests to travel with fewer items. View our full packing guide here. |
| Travel Documents |
Guests are responsible for ensuring they meet all passport, visa and entry requirements for South Africa. Families travelling with children should check the latest regulations regarding travel documentation for minors with their nearest South African embassy or consulate. |
| Malaria |
Kwandwe is located in a malaria-free region of South Africa. Anti-malaria medication is not required. |
| Need More Information? |
Visit our Frequently Asked Questions page for information on accommodation, families, safari activities, walking safaris, health considerations, connectivity, conservation initiatives and more. |
