Kariega's family-friendly entry point — log chalets in the bush
Main Lodge is Kariega’s most relaxed and family-friendly lodge — spacious log chalets expertly designed to blend into the surrounding bush, with privacy and stunning views over the Kariega River valley. It’s the best entry point for families, friends and couples looking for a great Big 5 safari without the higher price point of the boutique lodges.
Children aged 0 to 3 stay free of charge and teens 4 to 12 are charged at 50% of the adult rate, making this Kariega’s most family-suitable lodge. One-bedroom and three-bedroom chalets are available on this lodge.
Kariega is 12,000 hectares of malaria-free Big 5 country in the Eastern Cape, roughly an hour from Port Elizabeth airport. The reserve is home to the famous rhino-conservation success story of Thandi, who survived a poaching attack and has since raised multiple calves.
Please note: Main Lodge is the only Kariega lodge where the rate does not include selected house beverages — the other Kariega lodges (Ukhozi, River Lodge, Settlers Drift, The Homestead) are fully inclusive.
Inside Main Lodge
Rooms & suites
1-Bedroom Chalet
Sleeps 2 adults · King or twin · En-suite · Kids 0-3 free · Teens 4-12 at 50% · 8 chalets available
3-Bedroom Chalet
Sleeps up to 6 · Three en-suite bedrooms · Ideal for families or small groups · Kids 0-3 free · Teens 4-12 at 50% · 2 chalets available
Experiences at Main Lodge
Twice-daily Big 5 game drives, family-friendly bush walks, and access to Kariega's wider activity options.
- Twice-daily Big 5 game drives in open 4x4 vehicles
- Family-suitable guided bush walks
- Pool & relaxation areas
- Sundowner stops
- Boma dinners
- River cruises (at sister lodges)
Facilities
- Outdoor swimming pool
- Restaurant & bar
- Spa
- Gym
- Free Wi-Fi on the entire property
- Free + secured parking
- Laundry service
- Daily housekeeping
Policies & practicalities
Check-in / Check-out
From 14:00 · Out by 11:00
Wi-Fi
Free Wi-Fi on the entire property
Pets
Pets not allowed
Smoking
Non-smoking property
Booking lead time
Bookings need to be made at least 1 day in advance
Cancellation policy
- 31+ days before arrival — no forfeit
- 15 to 30 days — 25% of booking total forfeited
- 8 to 14 days — 50% of booking total forfeited
- 7 days or less — 100% of booking total forfeited
Your full cancellation terms appear in the booking widget before you pay and on your booking confirmation email. We strongly recommend travel insurance.
Questions about Main Lodge
What's included at Main Lodge?
Your rate includes log chalet accommodation, all meals (three daily), twice-daily Big 5 game drives in open 4x4 vehicles, guided bush walks (subject to availability) and teas and coffees. Selected house beverages are NOT included at Main Lodge (this is the only Kariega lodge where beverages are excluded — other Kariega lodges are fully inclusive). A Conservation & Community Levy applies separately.
Is Main Lodge family-friendly?
Yes — Main Lodge is Kariega's most family-friendly option. Children aged 0 to 3 stay free, and teens aged 4 to 12 are charged at 50% of the adult rate. Three-bedroom chalets are available for families or small groups of up to six guests. The reserve is malaria-free and safe for children.
How is Main Lodge different from Kariega's other lodges?
Main Lodge is the most relaxed and best-value of Kariega's five lodges, with log chalets in the bush and the broadest child-friendly policy. Ukhozi is the boutique option with private plunge pools. River Lodge is on the Bushman's River. Settlers Drift is the 5-star tented lodge. The Homestead is the exclusive-use private lodge.
What is the cancellation policy?
31+ days before arrival — no forfeit. 15 to 30 days — 25% of booking total forfeited. 8 to 14 days — 50% of booking total forfeited. 7 days or less — 100% of booking total forfeited.
