Discover the Diverse Wildlife of Kwandwe Private Game Reserve
Nestled within the heart of South Africa’s Eastern Cape, Kwandwe Private Game Reserve stretches over 22,000 hectares of unspoiled wilderness, flanking both sides of the winding Great Fish River. Known for its exceptional guiding, diverse and authentic experiences, and the myriad of wildlife that calls the reserve home, Kwandwe offers a rich tapestry of activities and accommodation choices that promise to forge lasting memories.
The Uplands Homestead is a haven of old-world romance, set amid meticulously manicured gardens within the confines of a private game reserve. This retreat boasts three suites, each featuring private verandas and ensuite bathrooms that seamlessly blend modern comforts with timeless luxury. Antique mirrors, yellowwood chests, and opulent wardrobes coexist harmoniously with contemporary amenities like air-conditioning, in-room safes, and underfloor heating. The kitchen serves as the heart and soul of the homestead, where delectable meals are crafted to be shared with loved ones under the African sky in the boma, a perfect culmination to a day filled with adventure.
A restored farmhouse dating back to 1905, Uplands Homestead is available on an exclusive-use basis only. It features a contemporary farm style kitchen, three spacious bedrooms with en-suite bathrooms, two with a ball and claw bath, one with an oval stone bath, and private verandas. The decor is based on 1820’s Settler style with a fresh and contemporary look. The furnishings exemplify rich colours and textures and the original antiques are complemented with glass and crystal lanterns, celadon ceramic lamps and silver candlestick holders to give this laid back luxurious home a comfortable and romantic ambiance.
Explore the natural splendour of Kwandwe on early morning and late afternoon/evening game drives in an open 4×4 safari vehicle. An armed ranger and tracker team share their extensive knowledge of the bush with you as you track the Big Five, as well as a variety of other wildlife.
Morning drives begin as dawn breaks over the Great Fish River, providing the opportunity to see predators winding up their nocturnal hunts and settling in for the day. Many animals take advantage of the cool morning hours to graze before the heat of the day. In the late afternoon, wildlife can often be spotted coming down to the river to drink, and night drives produce some unusual sightings, including aardvark, aardwolf, bat-eared fox, and porcupine.
Experience the thrill of tracking big game (white rhino, black rhino, elephant and buffalo) on foot, accompanied by an armed specialist ranger and tracker team. The walk lasts 3 to 4 hours and ends with a picnic lunch on the banks of the Great Fish River or at a scenic spot in the bush. Not suitable for children under 16 years of age.
Kwandwe offers a variety of fishing options, either in still water or in the Great Fish River. Try your hand at catching Large Mouth Bass on artificial lures or fly rod in the reserve’s largest dam. Coarse (bait) fishing can also be tried in either the Great Fish River or one of the other large dams to target Yellowfish, Carp, Sharptooth Catfish and more. A fun activity for children as well as for adults.
