Kariega is a family owned reserve in the Western Cape of South Africa, situated just over and hour from Port Elizabeth. Set in 9,000 hectares of private terrain it is home to the safari Big 5, as well as a host of other animals and birds. It also has two rivers running through the reserve.

The game lodges offer both standard and luxury accommodation combined with first-class guiding in the reserve's ownprivate safari vehicles.

The Kariega Reserve is a family owned retreat in the Eastern Cape province of South Africa. The reserve features four different luxury lodges as well as game tours straight through the homeland of the elephant, lion, rhino, leopard, giraffe, zebra, hyena and countless other wild beasts. The tours include viewings of riverside forests, grasslands and the bushveldt that covers most of South Africa.

However seeing the natural habitat of the nesting crowned eagle, the wildebeest or the eland is only part of what the reserve has to offer. Other activities include cruises by boat down the Kariega River, safari walks on various hiking trails, canoe trips and fishing. There are other attractions near the Kariega Reserve including two golf courses, various beaches and tourism in nearby towns.

Kariega features four luxury lodges; the River Lodge, Ukhozi Lodge, Kariega Main Lodge and the Homestead, all available at varying prices. The River and Ukhozi lodges are only available to persons 10 years or older. The River Lodge features 10 suites and sits along the Bushman’s River, where guests may go fishing or crabbing. The Ukhozi also has 10 suites that feature plunge pools, and advertises a unique African-style.

The Kariega Main Lodge is more family-friendly, and includes 21 luxury chalets, some with private pools, and is the most economical of the lodges. It is also where the Kariega Wellness Centre is located, where guests may receive massages, facials and other rejuvenating treatments. The Homestead is the most remote and luxurious, designed for a group of up to 10 persons for a holiday experience tailored more toward one’s personal desires. Designed with five bedrooms, a bar, swimming pool and playroom, the Homestead also includes a game ranger and chef cook for the group. The holiday rates vary between high and low seasons as well as between lodges; children’s rates are available. The packages include all meals as well as morning and evening game drives.

Apart from being a holiday hotspot, Kariega Game Reserve contributes to the welfare of the wildlife and local community. It bolsters its image by being the largest employer in the area, as well as by facilitating volunteer work at the local rural farm school. Also Kariega’s Conservation Volunteer Programme accepts volunteers from around the world to learn about conservation issues and population status/monitoring of wildlife within the reserve. The Kariega Game Reserve is a leader in the reintroduction of animal species the Eastern Cape.