Kwandwe Private Game Reserve

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Kwandwe Private Game Reserve Overview

Reasons to Visit Kwandwe Private Game Reserve

* Good wildlife viewing * Stunning scenery * Easy add-on at the end of the popular Garden Route * Top guides and off-road driving in open vehicles * Excellent nocturnal viewing * Malaria-free

Kwandwe Private Game Reserve Wildlife

Kwandwe is home to most safari favorites, including the Big Five. Wildlife isn’t as prolific as in some other private reserves, but there is plenty of it about, and the drama of the setting makes up for this. Black rhinos and cheetahs are some of the flagship species you can expect to see. Interesting antelope often encountered are eland, red hartebeest, and gemsbok.The varied thicket vegetation of the Great Fish River Valley supports a considerable diversity of bird species. As a result, the bird checklist of over 300 species is still growing. Kwandwe is an isiXhosa name that translates as ‘Place of the Blue Crane’, which is one of several endangered species likely to be seen here. Other prominent birds include the rainbow-colored white-fronted bee-eater and Africa’s heaviest flying bird, the Kori bustard. Migratory birds are present from November to April.

Black Rhino
Occasional
Buffalo
Common
Cheetah
Occasional
Elephant
Occasional
Giraffe
Common
Hippo
Occasional
Hyena
Occasional
Leopard
Rare
Lion
Occasional
Rhino
Common
Wild Dog
--
Wildebeest
Common
Zebra
Common

Wildlife Highlights

The endemic black wildebeest, the rare and localized cousin of the blue wildebeest, is one of the special animals common in Kwandwe. The white rhino is also very common, and Kwandwe is one of the best places in South Africa to see the relatively scarce black rhino. Night drives are excellent and offer a chance to see the nocturnal aardwolf, porcupine, and aardvark as well as the elusive and much sought-after pangolin.

Best Time to Visit Kwandwe Private Game Reserve

Best Time to Visit

Best Weather

Worst Weather

Kwandwe’s wildlife viewing is favorable all year, but is marginally best in the driest months of the year (June through September). This is during the winter season, and it can become very cold at times. It is important to prepare for this with warm clothing, which is particularly important for evening and morning game drives in open vehicles. The warmer summer months (October to April) are more pleasant.

Low Season

May to September (Low season rates)

High Season

October to April (High season rates)

Kwandwe Private Game Reserve Weather and Climate

Kwandwe enjoys a temperate climate. Daytime temperatures are quite comfortable throughout the year, but it does get cold at night in the winter months (May to September). Winter and summer are at the opposite time as compared to Europe and North America. A little rain falls throughout the year, but slightly more in the summer months, from October to March.

How to get to Kwandwe Private Game Reserve

Near Grahamstown, in South Africa’s malaria-free Eastern Cape province, lies Kwandwe Private Game Reserve. The nearest major airport is in Port Elizabeth, which lies 160 km (100 miles) from the reserve.

By Air

There are domestic flights to Port Elizabeth and people can also choose self-drive options.

By Road

* From Port Elizabeth travel eastwards along the N2 towards Grahamstown.* Travel past Grahamstown and the Settlers Monument, continuing underneath the flyover.* A few kilometers past Grahamstown turn left onto the road at the ‘R67 Fort Beaufort’ turn-off.* Wind your way through the Ecca Pass for approximately 19 km. On your right, you will see a large sign indicating ‘The Great Fish River Reserve’.* Turn left onto the gravel road opposite this sign. There are two smaller signs on the left marked ‘Kwandwe’ and ‘Kranzdrift’.* Travel about 5 km to reach the Kwandwe gate, and continue straight for a further 6 km.* The first building on the left is Heatherton Towers Reception area, where you will check in and leave your car.* You will then be transferred to Great Fish River Lodge, Ecca Lodge, Uplands Homestead, Fort House, or Melton Manor, which are between 15 – 30 minutes drive away.

Where to stay in Kwandwe Private Game Reserve

Kwandwe Fort House

Unveiling Unmatched Safari Luxury at Kwandwe Fort House Kwandwe Fort House stands as an epitome of lavishness nestled in the heart of the Eastern Cape’s exquisite landscape. Situated within the renowned Kwandwe Private Game Reserve, this exclusive haven radiates elegance and comfort, offering a tranquil escape for discerning travelers. With just four opulent suites, Kwandwe […]

Kwandwe Melton Manor

Unparalleled Luxury at Kwandwe Melton Manor Kwandwe Melton Manor, a gem nestled within the Eastern Cape’s magnificent landscape, presents an unrivalled haven of luxury. Positioned within the renowned Kwandwe Private Game Reserve, this exclusive manor epitomizes elegance and comfort, providing a tranquil escape for discerning travellers. With just four lavish suites, this exclusive safari villa […]

Kwandwe Uplands Homestead

Discover Kwandwe Uplands Homestead: Your Premier Safari Escape Welcome to Kwandwe Uplands Homestead, an oasis of luxury and tranquillity situated in the heart of the Eastern Cape’s unspoiled natural beauty. This private safari home offers an unrivalled safari experience, seamlessly blending the excitement of the wild with lavish comforts. Each suite is a sanctuary of […]

Kwandwe Ecca Lodge

Experience Kwandwe Ecca Lodge: Unparalleled Safari Luxury Welcome to Kwandwe Ecca Lodge, an exceptional retreat nestled in the heart of Eastern Cape’s untamed beauty. This lodge offers a perfect blend of luxury and adventure amidst pristine landscapes. Kwandwe Ecca Lodge provides an unparalleled safari experience. The lodge combines the thrill of the wild with extraordinary […]

Kwandwe Great Fish River Lodge

Experience the Splendor of Kwandwe Great Fish River Lodge Welcome to Kwandwe Great Fish River Lodge, an exclusive haven situated amidst the raw beauty of the Eastern Cape. Immerse yourself in the untamed African wilderness while reveling in luxurious comforts. The lodge offers an unparalleled experience, seamlessly blending the wonders of the wild with opulent […]

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