Discover the Diverse Wildlife of South Africa
Nestled in the heart of the Eastern Cape bushveld, Woodbury Lodge stands proudly on the Amakhala Game Reserve. Established in 1999 by the Gush family, this intimate, family-run lodge offers an authentic African safari experience. The lodge’s dedicated staff, many of whom grew up in the area, are committed to ensuring that guests create lasting memories.
Woodbury Lodge provides a secluded haven for thrilling Big Five game viewing. Positioned against a cliff in lush riverine bush, the lodge boasts breathtaking views of the Bushman’s River valley. Seven stone-and-thatch sleeping lodges, surrounded by indigenous trees resonating with birdsong, offer comfortable accommodations. Each lodge features air conditioning, en-suite bathrooms with heated floors, and a private deck with panoramic views over the plains. Additionally, two family lodges are available, accommodating up to four guests, providing an ideal setting for families to immerse themselves in the African bush.
The lodge’s dining area and lounge, strategically located with expansive decks overlooking the Woodbury plains, become focal points for unforgettable sunrises and evening gatherings around the fire beneath the African stars.
Woodbury Lodge boasts seven comfortable stone-and-thatch sleeping lodges, each carefully designed to immerse guests in the natural beauty of the surroundings. The rooms feature air conditioning, en-suite bathrooms with heated floors, and private decks offering magnificent views of the plains. The lodge also offers two family lodges, accommodating up to four guests, fostering a sense of togetherness in the heart of the African wilderness.
The design of each suite prioritises seclusion, allowing guests to enjoy the unique setting and breathtaking views at their leisure. Meticulous attention to detail by owners and artists Mike and Justine Weeks is evident in the fine African beadwork and handcrafted designs that adorn the lodge. The thatched lodge, with its unique safari suites and signature stone-capped rooftops, provides all the comforts of a luxury retreat. Woodbury Lodge serves as an undisturbed sanctuary for guests to rejuvenate their souls and connect with the soothing sounds of nature. The view from the safari suites and lounge area extends to the waterhole, where monkeys play, and antelope and zebra gather to quench their thirst.
Five of the seven chalets at Woodbury Lodge are designed for two guests each, with the option of either a king size bed or twin beds, at your request. Each room has air conditioning, an en–suite bathroom with heated floors and a private deck with magnificent views over the plains.
Within the Woodbury Lodge portfolio are two family chalets which sleep up to four guests, allowing families to enjoy the African bush together. Each room has air conditioning, an en–suite bathroom with heated floors and a private deck with magnificent views over the plains.
Game drives are sure to be one of the highlights of your stay with us. The drives are conducted in open 4×4 vehicles on Amakhala Game Reserve by our friendly and professional guides who are passionate about the African bush. Morning drives depart in time for the African sunrise (after a quick cup of coffee at the lodge, of course). This is the best time to look for some exciting species that are active at this time, such as lions. Mid-way through the drive your guide will find a good spot for a break and you will be welcome to disembark the vehicle and enjoy home-made biscuits and tea or coffee.
Afternoon drives depart mid-afternoon and go into the early evening, including a stop for sundowners to stretch your legs and sample South African snacks such as biltong, while sipping on a drink of your choice. As you make your way back to the lodge after the sun has set, there’s a chance to see the weird and wonderful nocturnal wildlife emerging, such as springhare, brown hyaena and porcupine.
Game drives afford our guests the opportunity to explore the diverse landscapes of Amakhala Game Reserve, from its towering cliffs and the meandering Bushman’s River to open grasslands and dune forests. Our guides will do their best to find as many special wildlife sightings for you as possible, and don’t be shy to tell them which animals you’d like to see the most on your safari! Expect to learn about more than just the big animals, too: our guides are knowledgeable about birds, trees, reptiles and much more.
Amakhala Game Reserve is a complex and diverse ecosystem, providing habitat for over 60 mammal species, including the Big 5. The reserve is also home to hippos, cheetah, giraffe, zebra and numerous antelope, as well as over 240 species of birds. Here you can return to nature and experience the abundant wildlife, diverse vegetation and dramatic landscape of the Eastern Cape.
Explore the Amakhala Game Reserve on horseback with Amakhala Horse Trails, catering to small groups of up to 6 riders with intermediate to experienced skills. Accompanied by a parent or guardian, experienced younger riders aged 10 to 15 are also welcome. The horseback safaris, lasting two to three hours, adapt the trail ride speed to the riders’ experience level. This ensures ample time for wildlife observation and finding idyllic spots to rest the horses while indulging in refreshments and snacks.
The horse trails are flexible, with arrangements to be made with the lodge before arrival. Riders should come prepared with appropriate clothing, including long pants and suitable shoes. Riding helmets will be provided for added safety.
When the sun goes down the diurnal (daytime) animals go to sleep and the nocturnal (nighttime) animals come out to play. Join your guide as they go in search of the more elusive species such as brown hyaena, aardvark and porcupine under the spectacular African stars.
