Kwandwe Private Game Reserve

Imagine walking through the African bush – rolling grasslands that seem to go on forever with pockets of thick forests – in search of one of the most endangered animals on the continent. With your guide, you bend down to check tracks. Suddenly, through the thickets, you glimpse a horn. You’ve tracked down a rhino, a moment in the wilderness that will stay with you forever.

Must-Visit Areas in Kwandwe Private Game Reserve

Located in the Eastern Cape, Kwande is a Big Five safari destination in South Africa and rich in biodiversity. A South African safari here is exclusive thanks to the low guest-to-land ratio and luxurious due to the incredible lodges that operate here. A Kwandwe safari can take you to:

Great Fish River: Hotspot for Mammals and Birds

The Great Fish River runs through Kwandwe Private Game Reserve, weaving through the landscape for 30 km/19 mi. Water sources in arid landscapes are a lifeline for the wildlife of the region, making them a fantastic stop to see animals. The Great Fish River is a permanent source of water for Kwandwe’s wildlife, but it also attracts birds. Here, the Knysna lourie, giant kingfisher, and fish eagle are often spotted.

Walking Routes: In-Depth Experience in the Bush

The 30,000 hectares of pristine wilderness that make up Kwandwe are intersected by walking trails. Walking safaris are an incredible way to explore the landscape and immerse yourself in nature. During a walking safari (also known as a bush walk), you’ll be accompanied by knowledgeable guides who will teach you more about the environment you’re exploring. Lasting up to four hours, during these walks you can track larger game and get to know the smaller inhabitants of the reserve.

When’s the Best Time to Go to Kwandwe Private Game Reserve?

Kwandwe is a year-round safari destination in South Africa, but the winter months from May to September may be slightly better for wildlife viewing due to the dry weather. Birdwatchers will love the reserve from November to April, when migratory bird species from northern Africa and Europe arrive.

Wildlife Found in Kwandwe Private Game Reserve

Thanks to Kwandwe’s strides in rhino conservation, the reserve is a haven for white and black rhinos; safari-goers are offered three unique rhino conservation experiences to participate in. Another popular species here is the cheetah – sightings of this big cat are common, as are sightings of lions. Leopards are more of a challenge.

As a Big Five safari destination, Kwandwe is also home to buffaloes and elephants. You’ll spot herds of both black and blue wildebeest here – other antelope species include elands, red hartebeest, and gemsbok.

The name “Kwandwe” is an isiXhosa word that means “place of the blue crane” – this is the national bird of South Africa, and the reserve is home to an impressive population of this vulnerable species. Other birds to spot at Kwandwe during birding safaris include the Knysna woodpecker, crowned eagle, and black stork.

How to Get to Kwandwe Private Game Reserve

To reach Kwandwe, fly into the Eastern Cape. You can land at either Chief Dawid Stuurman International Airport in Gqeberha (a two-hour transfer to Kwandwe) or King Phalo Airport in East London (a two-to-three-hour transfer).