Amakhala Game Reserve

Overview

Amakhala Game Reserve is a private conservation area located in the Eastern Cape of South Africa, near Port Elizabeth (Gqeberha). Established on restored farmland, the reserve forms part of an important conservation initiative aimed at rewilding the region and reintroducing indigenous wildlife. Amakhala features a diverse landscape of rolling hills, open savannah, river valleys, and thicket vegetation, offering a malaria-free safari experience ideal for families, first-time safari travelers, and those seeking an accessible Big Five destination close to the coast. The reserve is known for its strong conservation ethos, luxury lodges, and scenic Eastern Cape setting.

High Season

May to September

Best Time to Go

June to August for cooler weather and excellent Big Five game viewing

Pros & Cons

Malaria-free safari destination
Big Five wildlife viewing
Close to Gqeberha airport
Diverse landscapes
Strong conservation focus

Smaller reserve compared to major national parks
Wildlife densities lower than Kruger
Limited self-drive access

Map in South Africa

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Wildlife & Animals

Amakhala Game Reserve supports a well-balanced selection of wildlife following extensive rewilding and species reintroduction programs. The reserve is home to the Big Five, including elephant, lion, leopard, buffalo, and rhinoceros. Plains game such as zebra, giraffe, blesbok, kudu, and springbok are commonly seen and form an important prey base for predators. The varied habitats also support smaller mammals including warthog, jackal, and caracal, contributing to a diverse and ecologically stable ecosystem.

Wildlife Highlights

Wildlife highlights at Amakhala include guided Big Five game drives, successful lion and elephant conservation projects, close-up rhino encounters, and opportunities to observe wildlife in a scenic Eastern Cape landscape free from malaria risk.

Best Time for Wildlife Viewing

The best wildlife viewing is during the dry months from May to September when vegetation is thinner and animals gather near permanent water sources.

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Birds

Amakhala Game Reserve offers rewarding birdwatching with over 250 recorded bird species. The reserve’s rivers, dams, and grasslands attract waterbirds, raptors, and a variety of endemic Eastern Cape species. Birding is diverse year-round, with migratory species adding to the richness during the summer months.