Amakhala Family Big Five Safari
Malaria-Free Big Five for the Whole Family at Amakhala
Overview
Amakhala Game Reserve was created when neighbouring farming families joined their land to bring the Big Five back to this stretch of the Eastern Cape. Just 45 minutes from Gqeberha and completely malaria-free, it has become one of South Africa's favourite family safari reserves. Over three nights at the flagship Bukela Game Lodge you settle into an easy rhythm of morning and afternoon game drives, river cruises and unhurried lodge time — an introduction to safari that works as well for a six-year-old as it does for grandparents.
Bukela's thatched suites look out over a waterhole where elephant and antelope come to drink, and the lodge runs a warm children's programme so parents get a little downtime too. Game drives cross open plains and riverine bush in search of lion, elephant, buffalo, rhino and the plains game that fills the reserve. Being close to the coast, Amakhala also pairs beautifully with a Garden Route add-on.
Who It's For
Ideal for families wanting a safe, malaria-free first safari, and for anyone who prefers a short, gentle bush trip with generous downtime between drives.
Package Highlights
Family-First Lodge
Kids' programme, family suites and flexible drive times
Malaria-Free
No tablets — safe and easy for young children
Waterhole Views
Elephant and antelope at the waterhole below your suite
River Cruise
A gentle Bushman's River cruise between game drives
Big Five Country
Lion, elephant, buffalo and rhino on open plains
45 Minutes from the Airport
The closest Big Five reserve to Gqeberha
Day-by-Day Itinerary
A short 45-minute transfer from Gqeberha brings you to Bukela Game Lodge in time for lunch overlooking the waterhole. Settle in, meet your guide, then head out on an afternoon game drive across the reserve's open plains. Sundowners in the bush ease you into your first evening, followed by a relaxed family dinner.
🏨 Accommodation: Bukela Game Lodge
🍽️ Meals: Lunch, Afternoon Tea, Dinner
Featured Lodges & Accommodation
Bukela Game Lodge
📍 Amakhala Game Reserve
Amakhala's flagship lodge, with thatched suites overlooking a busy waterhole, a family-friendly children's programme and a pool set among the bush. Warm, relaxed and made for first safaris.
From $420 per person per night
Leeuwenbosch Country House
📍 Amakhala Game Reserve
A restored 1800s manor house run by one of Amakhala's founding families, offering a homely, heritage stay that families and small groups love.
From $300 per person per night
Pricing & Options
All prices per person sharing. Customize any tier to your preferences.
Family
(~$633/night)
Bukela Game Lodge, shared game drives, all meals, river cruise
Get QuoteFamily Plus
(~$900/night)
Family suite upgrade, private vehicle option, premium beverages
Get QuotePrivate
(~$1,400/night)
Private guide and vehicle throughout, exclusive-use family suite, extra activities
Get QuoteWhat's Included & Excluded
✓ Included
- ✓ 3 nights lodge accommodation
- ✓ All meals and selected beverages
- ✓ Twice-daily game drives in open 4x4 vehicles
- ✓ Bushman's River cruise
- ✓ Children's programme
- ✓ Airport transfers from Gqeberha
- ✓ Park and conservation fees
✗ Excluded
- ✗ Flights
- ✗ Travel insurance
- ✗ Visa fees
- ✗ Premium beverages
- ✗ Spa treatments
- ✗ Gratuities
- ✗ Personal expenses
Photo Gallery
Best Time to Travel
Amakhala is a comfortable year-round family safari. Winter days are crisp and clear with strong game viewing, while summer is warm and green — perfect for river cruises and poolside afternoons between drives.
Why Choose This Package
Built for Families
A dedicated children's programme, family suites and flexible drive times make this an easy first safari for all ages.
Closest Big Five to the Airport
Just 45 minutes from Gqeberha, Amakhala means less travel and more time on safari.
Malaria-Free Peace of Mind
No tablets and no risk, so even the youngest travellers can join every drive.
More Than Game Drives
A gentle river cruise, guided walks and waterhole viewing add variety beyond the 4x4.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to Experience the Amakhala Family Big Five Safari?
From $1,900 per person | 4 Days / 3 Nights
⚡ Limited availability for peak season 2026 — book early to secure your dates
