African Safari Lodge

Set on a private game reserve 17 km outside Grahamstown, African Safari Lodge stands 20 metres above the high-water mark on the Settlers dam, looking upriver along the Kariega. The property borders the Thomas Baines Nature Reserve, at the meeting point of two rivers in Grahamstown's main water catchment. Ravine thickets and scattered thorn trees run down to the water. Antelope and birdlife move along the banks below the viewing porches, and sightings from the lodge are near constant. The main lodge holds three en-suite rooms, each with a king or twin setup and a bushveld or river view; the Impala room, the smallest, is not suited to a child sharing with parents. Away from the lodge sit the Luxury Suite and the Deluxe River Suites, each with its own patio and braai area over the water. The Deluxe River Suites add a full kitchen, so guests can self-cater or order from the à la carte menu instead. A communal lounge and dining area, plus a shared patio with a braai, anchor the main building. Rooms come with fans, an electric blanket and a hairdryer, and Wi-Fi runs throughout. The Indian Ocean coast at Kenton-on-Sea lies 45 km downriver, an easy day trip from the lodge. Free parking and laundry service are both on offer.