Kariega Big Five & River Safari
Big Five Days, River Nights at Settlers Drift
Overview
Kariega Game Reserve spans two river valleys between Gqeberha and Grahamstown, where wide Big Five wilderness meets the tidal Bushman's and Kariega rivers. This five-day journey is built around Settlers Drift, an all-suite tented lodge reached by boat across the river — one of the most memorable arrivals in South African safari. Days are spent tracking lion, elephant, buffalo and rhino across the reserve; evenings unwind on your private deck above the water.
Kariega is a genuine conservation success story, with a rhino programme that guests are invited to understand and support. Between game drives you can take a guided river cruise or a bush walk, and the malaria-free setting keeps everything relaxed. It is a natural fit for couples and honeymooners, but the reserve's variety of lodges also suits families and small groups.
Who It's For
Suited to couples and honeymooners who want privacy and water views, and to nature lovers who like their Big Five days paired with rivers, walks and birdlife.
Package Highlights
Boat Arrival
Reach Settlers Drift by boat across the Bushman's River
All-Suite Tented Lodge
Private decks and plunge pools above the water
Rhino Conservation
Meet a reserve at the heart of Eastern Cape rhino protection
Big Five Drives
Lion, elephant, buffalo and rhino across two valleys
River Cruise
Cruise the tidal river for birdlife and quiet water
Malaria-Free
No tablets, no risk — pure relaxation
Day-by-Day Itinerary
Your guide meets you at Gqeberha for the scenic transfer to Kariega. At the river's edge you board a boat for the crossing to Settlers Drift — a fitting introduction to a lodge that feels entirely removed from the world. Lunch on the deck, then an afternoon game drive, sundowners and dinner as the river glows at dusk.
🏨 Accommodation: Settlers Drift Lodge
🍽️ Meals: Lunch, Afternoon Tea, Dinner
Featured Lodges & Accommodation
Settlers Drift Lodge
📍 Kariega Game Reserve
An all-suite tented lodge reached by boat across the Bushman's River. Nine luxury tents on raised decks, each with a plunge pool and uninterrupted river and bush views.
From $620 per person per night
The Homestead
📍 Kariega Game Reserve
An exclusive-use villa with its own chef, guide and vehicle, set in a private garden with a pool — ideal for families or small groups wanting the whole place to themselves.
From $700 per person per night
Pricing & Options
All prices per person sharing. Customize any tier to your preferences.
River Suite
(~$600/night)
Settlers Drift tented suite, shared drives, all meals, river cruise
Get QuoteRiver Suite Plus
(~$900/night)
Premium suite, private vehicle option, premium beverages, spa credit
Get QuoteThe Homestead
(~$1,500/night)
Exclusive-use villa with private chef, guide and vehicle
Get QuoteWhat's Included & Excluded
✓ Included
- ✓ 4 nights lodge accommodation
- ✓ All meals and selected beverages
- ✓ Twice-daily game drives in open 4x4 vehicles
- ✓ Guided river cruise
- ✓ Guided walking safari
- ✓ Boat transfer to Settlers Drift
- ✓ Airport transfers from Gqeberha
- ✓ Park and conservation fees
✗ Excluded
- ✗ Flights
- ✗ Travel insurance
- ✗ Visa fees
- ✗ Premium beverages
- ✗ Spa treatments (unless specified)
- ✗ Gratuities
- ✗ Personal expenses
Photo Gallery
Best Time to Travel
Kariega is a rewarding safari all year. Dry winter months bring easier game viewing and crisp river mornings, while green summer months are lush and quieter, with excellent birding along the rivers.
Why Choose This Package
An Arrival You Remember
Reaching Settlers Drift by boat across the Bushman's River sets this stay apart from any road-in lodge.
Big Five and Water
Few reserves pair strong Big Five drives with tidal rivers, cruises and walks the way Kariega does.
Real Conservation
Kariega's rhino programme is a leading Eastern Cape conservation story you can learn about and support.
Malaria-Free Privacy
All-suite lodges, low guest numbers and no malaria make this an easy, restful escape.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to Experience the Kariega Big Five & River Safari?
From $2,400 per person | 5 Days / 4 Nights
⚡ Limited availability for peak season 2026 — book early to secure your dates
