Kwandwe Ecca Lodge is situated within the Kwande Private Game Reserve near Grahamstown in the Eastern Cape in South Africa. The malaria-free reserve flanks the north and south banks of the Great Fish River and is home to amazing wildlife.
This intimate lodge, relaunched in 2023 with family at its heart, is made up of three spacious suites accommodating 2 adults each, and three dedicated family suites that each accommodate 2 adults and 2 children. The contemporary design of the lodge is intimate and relaxed with decor inspired by the natural textures of the African bush. All rooms have private verandahs with a private plunge pool and outdoor showers to enhance the connection with the African wilderness.
The lodge offers stunning views of the Great Fish River Valley and the surrounding area. The reserve’s diverse landscape and ecosystems provides guests with impressive game viewing opportunities right from their private verandah.
Activities at Kwandwe Ecca Lodge are as diverse as they are memorable. Explore the reserve on morning and afternoon game drives, guided walks and night drives. Specialist safaris include walking, birding and photography safaris and the rhino conservation safari is highly recommended to learn how the ecological team protect the local population of white and black rhino.
Children are most welcome at Kwandwe Ecca Lodge and the lodge has been designed with family at its heart. The family safari programme is exceptional and a real highlight of any stay here. For guests staying in the Ecca Lodge family suites safari schedules can be customised with flexible game drives and no minimum age restrictions. On arrival, children receive a welcome gift that includes an activity book, games, and a pledge to ‘live green.’ Safari experiences are tailored to family preferences, whether it's adjusting wake-up times or focusing on specific interests. Children can enjoy scavenger hunts, fishing trips, cooking lessons, and eco-educational games, while parents can arrange for complimentary childminders if needed. Families can also contribute to conservation by planting Spekboom or engaging in voluntourism activities through the Ubunye Foundation. A dedicated children's menu with nutritious options is available at all lodges on the Kwandwe Private Game Reserve.
Kwandwe Ecca Lodge is located on the Eastern Cape of South Africa. The nearest national airport is in Port Elizabeth, 160 km (100 miles) from the reserve. There are daily scheduled flights from both Cape Town and Johannesburg to Port Elizabeth. From there, it is 2 hours by road to Kwandwe Private Game Reserve. The reserve also has a private airstrip and helicopter transfers can be arranged.
Rainfall occurs from September to May. The temperatures between October to March are high and may reach above 36 degrees. Winter (May-August) has lovely warm days and cool evenings and mornings.
Airy and open, Kwandwe Ecca Lodge on the Eastern Cape in South Africa enjoys magnificent views over an Acacia Aloe and Spekboom-studded valley. With rooms that flow seamlessly into the outdoors there's a real sense of place here, in the heart of the African wilderness. The lodge caters to families particularly well with a brilliant kids programme, educational safaris and spacious family accommodation options. It's one of Nico's favourites!
AUTHENTICITYWe won't take you to the usual tourist traps, instead we'll introduce you to people that show you the true side of a country. With our contacts in each destination, we can arrange for you to meet locals away from the crowds and ensure an authentic experience.
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