Black Lodge

About

Accommodation

Perched gracefully along the reserve's dramatic sandstone heights, Black Lodge offers an exclusive sanctuary where raw African wilderness meets refined luxury. Designed for discerning travellers seeking an unforgettable safari escape, the lodge seamlessly blends into the surrounding bushveld while framing panoramic, uninterrupted views of the majestic mountain ranges beyond.

At the heart of the property are five boutique chalets, each individually designed with its own distinct style and artistic personality. Every private retreat is crafted to maximise comfort and serenity, featuring a plush king-size bed (which can be seamlessly configured into twins), plush bathrobes, and soft slippers for ultimate relaxation. The spacious en-suite bathrooms are equipped with both a deep soaking bath and an invigorating shower. Step outside onto your expansive private patio to discover a personal plunge pool overlooking the rugged peaks.

Your stay at Black Lodge is completely worry-free, with all gourmet meals freshly prepared and provided by the lodge's culinary team throughout the day. Whether you are savouring breakfast on the sun-drenched deck or gathering for a multi-course dinner after an afternoon game drive, Black Lodge delivers an intimate and magical Eastern Cape experience.

Facilities

Free parking, Indoor Pool, Restaurant, Spa, BBQ / picnic area, Wi-Fi

Location & Surroundings

Nestled in the malaria-free heart of South Africa's Eastern Cape, Amakhala Game Reserve is an 18,000-acre wilderness sanctuary offering an authentic, accessible African safari. Carved out by the winding Bushman's River, the landscape seamlessly shifts across five distinct ecosystems, combining rolling open savannahs, acacia thorn-veld, and dense riverine bush.

Guests enjoy rare front-row access to Africa's Big Five - lion, elephant, buffalo, rhino, and leopard - alongside cheetahs, giraffes, zebras, and numerous species of antelope. Beyond standard open 4x4 vehicle drives, visitors can explore the reserve via quiet riverboat cruises along the Bushman's River or on immersive guided bush walks led by expert rangers.

Accommodation options cater to every style, featuring owner-managed properties that range from historic 1820s Settler farmhouses to five-star luxury tented camps with private plunge pools. Its location just an hour's drive from Gqeberha (Port Elizabeth) makes it a convenient, malaria-free finale to a trip along the iconic Garden Route.

House Rules