Hi all
we're planning to go to South Africa in March, flying into Cape Town and spending 2 weeks there and travelling along the Garden Route.
I fancy going to a game reserve but we haven't got time or money to go to Kruger so was wondering what people think of private game reserves
Are they realistic or a bit zoo/safari park like? Are they ethical?
Can anyone recommend any?
Thanks
Reply to this Check Ado reserve above Port Elizabeth...it's full of elephants...
Reply to this David
Most private reserves in South Africa are realistic and ethical. Most operate like the big Kruger-type reserves, only on a smaller scale. No, they are not zoos, but there are a few safari-park like establishments.
Cape Town is not 'big 5' country and there are no reserves near to Cape Town. Along the garden route are a few interesting places. You may want to avoid the Elephant sanctuaries near Knysna. Great places to see Elephants, but nothing else. I agree with Addo as a good destination. (http://www.sanparks.org/parks/addo/) It is one of our National parks. Also near Port Elizabeth, on the eastern end of the Garden route are a number of excellent private reserves. Try Shamwari (http://www.shamwari.com) or Pumba (http://www.pumbagamereserve.co.za). There are many more.
Enjoy your stay.
Greetings from a sunny Cape Town!
Reply to this You'd have two very good safari options on the Garden Route - Garden Route Game Lodge and Gondwana Private Game Reserve. Garden Route Game Lodge has just announced the birth of a baby rhino - you won't believe how big these rhinos get when you see them up close and personal. Accommodation is comfortable and of a good quality, the food is outstanding, the game rangers are highly experienced and knowledgeable, you get two game drives included per day (early morning and late afternoon), they have the Big Five and numerous smaller species. Their lions are not free-roaming though as this would destroy the other population of animals. The lodge facilities at GRGL are good too. I've been twice and its highly recommended by me.
Reply to this Hey David & Ruth.
I have to say Shamwari is one of the best places I've ever been - it's just incredible!
Hope you have a fantastic trip
Lisa
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