Kwena Lodge at Gondwana: An All-Inclusive Safari on the Garden Route

Situated near Herbertsdale in the heart of the scenic Garden Route, Gondwana Game Reserve offers a Big 5 safari experience, just over four hours from the centre of Cape Town. In addition to a slew of accommodation offerings, the 11 000-hectare reserve boasts 360-degree views of sweeping fynbos plains and the Langeberg and Outeniqua Mountains in the distance – an appropriately monumental backdrop for an unforgettable escape.

The owners, passionate conservationists Mark and Wendy Rutherford, started this project (converting livestock farms into a malaria-free reserve) in 2005, and it is now home to more than 20 game species including hippo, cheetah, kudu, eland, red hartebeest, lion, giraffe, buffalo and the first wild elephant calves and free-roaming lion cubs born in the region in over 250 years!

The lodgings

Inspired by traditional Khoisan dwellings, the 14 freestanding suites at Kwena Lodge offer front-row seats to two watering holes, overlooking a valley that was formerly part of the supercontinent Gondwanaland, after which the property is named.

The open-plan huts blend seamlessly into the surroundings, and each has a skylight for stargazing from your bed, while the deep baths and closed-combustion fireplaces ensure a toasty space to kick back and relax after your game drives.

In the same vicinity, but in separate buildings, is a lounge and bar, two dining rooms with fireplaces, a shaded verandah and an infinity swimming pool overlooking the animal-dotted plains, an outdoor boma and firepit.

• 14 freestanding suites
• king-size bed (can be made into twins)
• en-suite bathroom with a bath and walk-in shower
• small seating area
• tea- and coffee-making facilities
• skylight
• closed-combustion fireplace
• private dressing area
• private patios with sun loungers
• complimentary wifi

While you’re there

Guests are treated to alfresco boma breakfasts, scenic verandah lunch platters, wood-fired evening dinners in the elegant dining room and, of course, sundowner drinks and snacks as the sun dips behind the mountains during your evening game drive.

Nature lovers will be in their element with the fynbos conservation experience, daily game drives, guided bush walks, birdwatching, mountain-biking and stargazing, as well as the popular Junior Ranger Programme for kids. There’s also an on-site Tented Bush Spa, whose variety of Africology treatments can be enjoyed inside, or under the shade of the outdoor spa deck.

Gondwana is one of those immersive escapes that will stay with you long after you leave.

Distance from CT 4.5 hours
Child friendly? Yes (children 6 years and older are allowed on normal game drives, however younger children must be on a private vehicle or, where possible, share with other young families).
Pet friendly? No
Wifi? Free
CostFrom R6 200 – R10 180 per person per night (depending on package)
Where to find it R327 Heuningklip Farm, Herbertsdale, Western Cape

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