On the banks of the Bushman's River — Big 5 reserve meets the sea
River Lodge sits directly on the banks of the Bushman’s River, unique among Big 5 lodges in that the reserve runs from the bush all the way to the coast. Ten spacious, air-conditioned and tastefully appointed suites offer luxurious peace and tranquility above the river, with intimate public areas overlooking the water.
Kariega is 12,000 hectares of malaria-free Big 5 country in the Eastern Cape, roughly an hour from Port Elizabeth airport.
River Lodge does not accept children or teens — it’s an adults-only safari experience. Families should look at Main Lodge or The Homestead on the same reserve.
Inside River Lodge
Rooms & suites
River Lodge Suite
Sleeps 2 adults · Adults only · Thatched suite · Private deck · River and forest views · 10 suites available
Experiences at River Lodge
Twice-daily Big 5 drives, plus river cruises on the Bushman's River — a rare combination at any Big 5 lodge.
- Twice-daily Big 5 game drives in open 4x4 vehicles
- Bushman's River cruise (subject to weather and availability)
- Guided bush walks
- Sundowner stops
- Boma dinners
Facilities
- Outdoor swimming pool
- Restaurant & bar
- Spa
- Free Wi-Fi on the entire property
- Air conditioning in suites
- Private decks
- Free + secured parking
- Laundry service
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 River Lodge
What's included at River Lodge?
Your rate includes accommodation in a luxury thatched suite, all meals (three daily), selected house beverages (teas, coffees and local drinks — premium wines and spirits are excluded), twice-daily Big 5 game drives in open 4x4 vehicles, and guided bush walks. Bushman's River cruises are subject to weather and availability. A Conservation & Community Levy applies separately.
Are children welcome at River Lodge?
No — River Lodge does not accept children or teens. Families should look at Main Lodge (most family-friendly, kids 0-3 free) or The Homestead (sole-use, all ages welcome) on the same Kariega reserve.
How is River Lodge different from Kariega's other lodges?
River Lodge sits directly on the Bushman's River with the best access to river cruises. Ukhozi is the boutique option with private plunge pools. Settlers Drift is the 5-star tented lodge in a remote part of the reserve. Main Lodge is the family-friendly entry point. The Homestead is exclusive-use for one party.
When is the best time to visit Kariega?
Kariega is year-round and malaria-free. May to September gives the best Big 5 viewing as the bush thins. October to March brings lush green landscapes — combine with the Garden Route and the coast.
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.
