"From the moment we arrived we were spoilt and everything was so perfect every little detail was taken care of All the staff were so helpful kind and friendly our ranger was fantastic and so knowledgeable and caring towards the animals The lodge we stayed in was so perfect I cried with happiness when I saw it and the perfect views we had we were in lodge B Thank you so much for our lovely stay we only wished we had booked for longer and the food was exceptional"
"From the moment we arrived we were spoilt and everything was so perfect every little detail was taken care of All the staff were so helpful kind and friendly our ranger was fantastic and so knowledgeable and caring towards the animals The lodge we stayed in was so perfect I cried with happiness when I saw it and the perfect views we had we were in lodge B Thank you so much for our lovely stay we only wished we had booked for longer and the food was exceptional"
"The room was amazing and the staff are super knowledgeable and friendly! We would stay here again! We were able to see all of the animals on our first game drive and that made the trip! Thank you again for making our vacation so memorable!"
"The room was amazing and the staff are super knowledgeable and friendly! We would stay here again! We were able to see all of the animals on our first game drive and that made the trip! Thank you again for making our vacation so memorable!"
"Eagles Crag can only be described as pure luxury with faultless service and attention to detail....Your every need is catered for with delicious food to an excellent spa....The lodges are in fact individual private cottages which cater for your every need with eco friendly products, they are interior designed to a very high standard with a private plunge pool...Shamwari Reserve is breath taking and our Ranger David was so knowledgable and enthusiastic he insured that we got to see the Big 5 the...
"Eagles Crag can only be described as pure luxury with faultless service and attention to detail....Your every need is catered for with delicious food to an excellent spa....The lodges are in fact individual private cottages which cater for your every need with eco friendly products, they are interior designed to a very high standard with a private plunge pool...Shamwari Reserve is breath taking and our Ranger David was so knowledgable and enthusiastic he insured that we got to see the Big 5 the...
"Absolutely incredible stay from the moment we arrived until we left. The staff really look after you. James our guide for the 3 days we were there was great. The food is so nice and there is lots of it!
We really couldn’t fault any of it!
Thank you all at Founders
Andrew & Nicola"
"Absolutely incredible stay from the moment we arrived until we left. The staff really look after you. James our guide for the 3 days we were there was great. The food is so nice and there is lots of it!
We really couldn’t fault any of it!
Thank you all at Founders
Andrew & Nicola"
"Was left stranded outside the gate with no access no instructions. Gate would not open even though wr drove up to it. Phone lines dead. Had no option but to drive away feeling very sad and extremely dissapointed. Drove off into the dark desert looking for a last minute booking which ended up being 1.5 hours drive away. Management said no refund once they finally contacted us in a new telephone number that neither us or hotels.com had been provided with. Still waiting for some sort of apology...
"Was left stranded outside the gate with no access no instructions. Gate would not open even though wr drove up to it. Phone lines dead. Had no option but to drive away feeling very sad and extremely dissapointed. Drove off into the dark desert looking for a last minute booking which ended up being 1.5 hours drive away. Management said no refund once they finally contacted us in a new telephone number that neither us or hotels.com had been provided with. Still waiting for some sort of apology...
"Very beautiful historic property with great views & location.
On negative side
-large airy village units only have warmish water not hot
- village units outdoor showers had waist high weeds
- supper menus are 5 course set menus that are repeated & are expensive for quality
- restaurant staff lacking management & training
- receptionists could do hostessing/oversight at meal times & spot checks on housekeeping/condition of units and gardens to support and train staff but do not
- lack of comfy...
"Very beautiful historic property with great views & location.
On negative side
-large airy village units only have warmish water not hot
- village units outdoor showers had waist high weeds
- supper menus are 5 course set menus that are repeated & are expensive for quality
- restaurant staff lacking management & training
- receptionists could do hostessing/oversight at meal times & spot checks on housekeeping/condition of units and gardens to support and train staff but do not
- lack of comfy...
"Our stay at Quatermain’s was one of the highlights of our three-week trip through South Africa.
Julie was incredibly accommodating and made every request feel easy. Jess and Kyle were excellent game-drive guides—engaging, attentive and clearly passionate about what they do. Nick’s warm hospitality made us feel completely at home, while Riaan’s incredible knowledge brought every part of the walking safari to life.
The camp’s thoughtful comforts were equally memorable. The hot-water bottles...
"Our stay at Quatermain’s was one of the highlights of our three-week trip through South Africa.
Julie was incredibly accommodating and made every request feel easy. Jess and Kyle were excellent game-drive guides—engaging, attentive and clearly passionate about what they do. Nick’s warm hospitality made us feel completely at home, while Riaan’s incredible knowledge brought every part of the walking safari to life.
The camp’s thoughtful comforts were equally memorable. The hot-water bottles...
"A really lovely and relaxing place to spend a few days whilst visiting the game reserves.
Very attentive staff, a large and comfy bedroom
A lookout deck, pool, hammock and outdoor seating area are all lovely, and would be fabulous in warmer weather.
Three course dinner (set menu) was delicious and all home-prepared on site. The dining room is also very nice, and we were seated right by the fire - very welcome in August.
The shower did go cold on us twice, but I think in winter it's harder...
"A really lovely and relaxing place to spend a few days whilst visiting the game reserves.
Very attentive staff, a large and comfy bedroom
A lookout deck, pool, hammock and outdoor seating area are all lovely, and would be fabulous in warmer weather.
Three course dinner (set menu) was delicious and all home-prepared on site. The dining room is also very nice, and we were seated right by the fire - very welcome in August.
The shower did go cold on us twice, but I think in winter it's harder...
"I had a super stay here. It is really nice that the B&B actually provides breakfast along with tea and coffee and crackers. That makes the morning much easier. Also, I unexpectedly had an overnight guest and the hotelier allowed me to bring the other guest in the guest room. This was much appreciated."
"I had a super stay here. It is really nice that the B&B actually provides breakfast along with tea and coffee and crackers. That makes the morning much easier. Also, I unexpectedly had an overnight guest and the hotelier allowed me to bring the other guest in the guest room. This was much appreciated."
"From the staff to the accommodations everything was amazing. They are there to make your stay an unforgettable experience. A must stay for a safari experience when visiting South Africa with kids. "
"From the staff to the accommodations everything was amazing. They are there to make your stay an unforgettable experience. A must stay for a safari experience when visiting South Africa with kids. "
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
A really lovely and relaxing place to spend a few days whilst visiting the game reserves.
Very attentive staff, a large and comfy bedroom
A lookout deck, pool, hammock and outdoor seating area are all lovely, and would be fabulous in warmer weather.
Three course dinner (set menu) was delicious and all home-prepared on site. The dining room is also very nice, and we were seated right by the fire - very welcome in August.
The shower did go cold on us twice, but I think in winter it's harder...
A really lovely and relaxing place to spend a few days whilst visiting the game reserves.
Very attentive staff, a large and comfy bedroom
A lookout deck, pool, hammock and outdoor seating area are all lovely, and would be fabulous in warmer weather.
Three course dinner (set menu) was delicious and all home-prepared on site. The dining room is also very nice, and we were seated right by the fire - very welcome in August.
The shower did go cold on us twice, but I think in winter it's harder...
Absolutely incredible stay from the moment we arrived until we left. The staff really look after you. James our guide for the 3 days we were there was great. The food is so nice and there is lots of it!
We really couldn’t fault any of it!
Thank you all at Founders
Andrew & Nicola
Absolutely incredible stay from the moment we arrived until we left. The staff really look after you. James our guide for the 3 days we were there was great. The food is so nice and there is lots of it!
We really couldn’t fault any of it!
Thank you all at Founders
Andrew & Nicola
We stayed in the Kudu Suite at the Waterfront lodge part of Pumba. Room was massive with two bedrooms with stunning views over the water, a lounge area and two bathrooms. Each with its own bath, one being a jacuzzi bath and open glass showers capturing the magnificent views. Even got to shower with the monkeys looking on!
With two safaris each day, we also got to see many animals including rhino, elephant, giraffe, lion and buffalo. We even got to see the hippo in the water from our room. Our...
We stayed in the Kudu Suite at the Waterfront lodge part of Pumba. Room was massive with two bedrooms with stunning views over the water, a lounge area and two bathrooms. Each with its own bath, one being a jacuzzi bath and open glass showers capturing the magnificent views. Even got to shower with the monkeys looking on!
With two safaris each day, we also got to see many animals including rhino, elephant, giraffe, lion and buffalo. We even got to see the hippo in the water from our room. Our...
Sarah
Reviewed September 6, 2016Reviewed September 6, 2016
easy to find, was nervous about leaving car but wasnt issue. little confused on arrival how things worked but was fine. little walk to our tent which was well equipped and slept fine. great to see owners who have great passion, not sure if everyone does as its run by 2 rangers who take u on the drives. thought we would get 4 game drives but was only 3 with a short bush walk. food very nice, lunch wasnt my thing but wasnt hungry. not sure what to do between walk and drive, so be prepared. game...
easy to find, was nervous about leaving car but wasnt issue. little confused on arrival how things worked but was fine. little walk to our tent which was well equipped and slept fine. great to see owners who have great passion, not sure if everyone does as its run by 2 rangers who take u on the drives. thought we would get 4 game drives but was only 3 with a short bush walk. food very nice, lunch wasnt my thing but wasnt hungry. not sure what to do between walk and drive, so be prepared. game...
fj
Reviewed December 11, 2017Reviewed December 11, 2017
Beautiful lodge, recently renovated rooms. Service and food was amazing. Game drives twice daily. It was a truly memorable experience albeit a very expensive one, but you get what you pay for.
Beautiful lodge, recently renovated rooms. Service and food was amazing. Game drives twice daily. It was a truly memorable experience albeit a very expensive one, but you get what you pay for.
We had an amazing stay at the Shamwari Long Lee Manor. Staff provided excellent service pampering us and taking care of our every needs and I had definitely put on some weight. The meals were wonderful we sure had one of the best lamb racks and braai dinner with our ranger was fantastic. Our ranger Abel was excellent, knowledgeable and a very humble man. Abel made sure we had the greatest game viewing experience which included chasing elephant herds and lion prides through the raw vegetation. We...
We had an amazing stay at the Shamwari Long Lee Manor. Staff provided excellent service pampering us and taking care of our every needs and I had definitely put on some weight. The meals were wonderful we sure had one of the best lamb racks and braai dinner with our ranger was fantastic. Our ranger Abel was excellent, knowledgeable and a very humble man. Abel made sure we had the greatest game viewing experience which included chasing elephant herds and lion prides through the raw vegetation. We...
Jianan
Reviewed September 22, 2017Reviewed September 22, 2017
There is no better safari geared up for families in the world. We had the best time ever as did our seven year old daughter, and the staff couldn’t have done any more for us. This place is THE gold standard in luxury safaris and Riverdene ensured it worked for children too without compromising quality for adults too. Cannot recommend highly enough and thanks so much to all the team!
There is no better safari geared up for families in the world. We had the best time ever as did our seven year old daughter, and the staff couldn’t have done any more for us. This place is THE gold standard in luxury safaris and Riverdene ensured it worked for children too without compromising quality for adults too. Cannot recommend highly enough and thanks so much to all the team!
Oliver
Reviewed December 25, 2024Reviewed December 25, 2024
Historic country hotel with great ambience and wonderful staff. We arrived during a cold snap to a warm welcome. There was a lovely wood fire burning in the reception/sitting area and we were offered tea/coffee with scones immediately after checking in. We were shown to our rooms which were a 2 minute walk from the main hotel area. The rooms were very spacious and clean, with all the amenities.
Historic country hotel with great ambience and wonderful staff. We arrived during a cold snap to a warm welcome. There was a lovely wood fire burning in the reception/sitting area and we were offered tea/coffee with scones immediately after checking in. We were shown to our rooms which were a 2 minute walk from the main hotel area. The rooms were very spacious and clean, with all the amenities.
Brilliant game drive plenty to see - the rooms were fabulous backing onto the lion park! Enjoyed the game drive slight mix up with the early morning drive so that was annoying - but overall saw most of the animals.
Brilliant game drive plenty to see - the rooms were fabulous backing onto the lion park! Enjoyed the game drive slight mix up with the early morning drive so that was annoying - but overall saw most of the animals.
Zalonda was amazing and couldn't do enough for us. We had a lovely little patio area which was great to sit out it and we had everything we needed, including a small dining table so we could eat our meal in comfort.
Zalonda was amazing and couldn't do enough for us. We had a lovely little patio area which was great to sit out it and we had everything we needed, including a small dining table so we could eat our meal in comfort.
Stunning Outdoor Adventures: Riebeek East is perfect for eco-conscious travellers, offering scenic hiking trails and nature reserves for exploration.
Wildlife Safaris: Experience thrilling safari trips to observe local wildlife in their natural habitats.
Rich Historical Significance: Visit historical sites related to Jan van Riebeeck, adding cultural depth to your trip.
Charming Accommodation: Enjoy a variety of lodging options, from guest houses to rustic farmhouses, catering to all preferences.
Engaging Local Community: Immerse yourself in the friendly atmosphere and connect with locals for an authentic experience.
Find great hotels near Riebeek East
Discover a variety of accommodation options in Riebeek East, Eastern Cape, tailored to suit families, business travellers, and those seeking a serene getaway. From charming guest houses to the rustic allure of Mooimeisiesfontein Farmhouse, you'll find a range of lodgings that provide essential amenities and a relaxing atmosphere. Whether you desire a spa-themed retreat or a convenient base for exploring, Riebeek East has something to offer every visitor.
Shamwari Long Lee Manor: This exquisite 5-star lodge, located 31km from Riebeek East, offers a romantic and boutique-themed getaway amidst nature's splendour. Guests are welcomed into a world of elegance with uniquely designed decor and artworks that enhance the Edwardian property design. Couples can indulge in a range of wellness experiences, including aromatherapy treatments, hot stone massages, and facial treatments, all available in the luxurious couples' treatment rooms. Outdoor amenities such as a terrace and balconies allow visitors to soak in the natural beauty surrounding them, making it an ideal choice for a tranquil retreat.
Pumba Private Game Reserve: Experience luxury at its finest at Pumba Private Game Reserve, a 5-star retreat also situated 31km from Riebeek East. With a guest rating of 9.8, this lodge marries boutique elegance with spa indulgence. The full-service spa offers hydrotherapy treatments, massages, and beauty services, ensuring complete relaxation. The property boasts uniquely influenced decor that captivates the senses, creating an atmosphere of refined sophistication. Whether unwinding by the pool or enjoying a pampering session, visitors will find it an exceptional sanctuary.
Pure Nature Familodge: A delightful 3-star accommodation, Pure Nature Familodge is located 29km from Riebeek East and is tailored for families seeking a fun-filled holiday. With a guest rating of 9.8, the lodge provides an array of amenities specifically for children, including trampolines, supervised childcare, and a shared playground, ensuring kids have plenty of activities to enjoy. Families can unwind in a warm and inviting atmosphere, making it a perfect choice for those wishing to create lasting memories together in a natural setting.
Where to stay near Riebeek East
Riebeek East, a charming village in the Eastern Cape, offers a delightful escape for adventure and eco-conscious travellers. Surrounded by stunning landscapes, this friendly destination is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. Explore the nearby breathtaking nature reserves, engage with the local community, and immerse yourself in the serene atmosphere. With its blend of luxury and rustic charm, Riebeek East promises an unforgettable experience that captures the essence of South Africa’s natural beauty.
Sidbury: Located 24km from Riebeek East, Sidbury is a charming city that attracts moderately seasonal travellers seeking an outdoor adventure. The peak seasons in January to February and November draw visitors to experience its eco-friendly offerings. Sidbury is renowned for its recreational areas, camping facilities, and thrilling safari adventures. Nature enthusiasts can explore nearby landmarks like the local nature reserve and national parks, which provide breathtaking landscapes and abundant wildlife, making it a perfect destination for those who appreciate the great outdoors.
Kommadagga: Also situated 24km from Riebeek East, Kommadagga is a picturesque village that shares a similar seasonal travel pattern with Sidbury. Visitors flock to this quaint locale during February to March and November for its stunning scenery and outdoor experiences. The village is surrounded by national parks and nature reserves, creating a serene backdrop for activities like hiking and birdwatching. Kommadagga offers a peaceful escape into nature, making it an ideal spot for travellers looking to unwind and connect with the beautiful South African landscape.
Alicedale: Just 14km from Riebeek East, Alicedale is a vibrant city known for its friendly locals and welcoming atmosphere. Unlike its neighbouring towns, Alicedale's travel patterns are not as seasonal, with peaks occurring in June and August to September. Visitors can enjoy a round of golf at local courses or explore the charming small-town vibe. The city's proximity to local attractions and amenities ensures a delightful experience for all who visit, making it a must-stop on your journey through the Eastern Cape.
Things to do in Riebeek East
Shopping
In Riebeek East, you can explore local shops offering unique crafts and handmade gifts. If you're up for a drive, the nearby Grahamstown offers shopping options like the Makana Mall, featuring various retail stores and boutiques for more extensive gift options.
Recreation
Explore the serene surroundings of Riebeek East with rejuvenating yoga sessions at local wellness centres, immersing yourself in nature. Enjoy tranquil walks along the nearby nature trails, where you can unwind and connect with the peaceful landscape, offering a refreshing escape from daily life.
Adventure
Explore the stunning landscapes of the Baviaanskloof Wilderness Area, where thrilling hiking trails lead to breathtaking views and diverse wildlife. For a taste of adventure, try the River Rafting on the Sundays River, navigating exhilarating rapids surrounded by scenic beauty.
Nightlife
In Riebeek East, the local taverns offer a warm atmosphere with live music and socialising over drinks. You can also find cosy pubs where you can enjoy a laid-back evening with friends, sampling regional brews and hearty dishes, creating a friendly and inviting nightlife experience.
*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.
Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Riebeek East
To save money on your trip to Riebeek East, consider visiting between June and August when prices are lower. Booking a month in advance often yields the best rates, and Saturday is the cheapest night to stay. Use Expedia's search tool to filter hotels by price and type, including eco-certified options. For additional savings, look for last-minute deals and consider booking your hotel, flights, and activities as a package. Opt for public transport or walking to explore the area, which can also help keep costs down while enjoying the local scenery.
The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Riebeek East are June to August, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to January to February and November, where prices are slightly higher.
The best time to book a hotel: Booking a hotel in Riebeek East about 1 month out from when you are planning to stay is usually when prices are lowest. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals for hotels, look out for the green banner below the price, as this indicates a cheaper deal.
The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Riebeek East is Saturday. The most expensive day to stay in Riebeek East is Monday.
Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia’s search tool enables you to specify your budget, desired location, and additional preferences. You can arrange your search results to display prices from lowest to highest, allowing you to identify the most affordable hotels right away. Additionally, you have the option to refine your search by hotel type; for instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels that are available for booking.
Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel reservation in Riebeek East with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.
Find the best attractions near Riebeek East
Riebeek East offers an ideal setting for outdoor and eco-friendly adventures, featuring lodges, reserves, and lookouts for nature enthusiasts. Visitors can explore local attractions that provide opportunities for romance and adventure, with highlights including historical sites related to Jan van Riebeeck. Whether you seek relaxation or thrill, Riebeek East promises an unforgettable getaway immersed in the beauty of the Eastern Cape.
African Pride Pumba Private Game Reserve: Located 31km from Riebeek East, this reserve offers a luxury experience where you can immerse yourself in the beauty of the African wilderness, all while enjoying top-notch amenities and hospitality.
Olifantskop Pass Lookout: Situated 23km away, this lookout provides stunning panoramic views, making it an ideal spot for outdoor enthusiasts and couples seeking a romantic escape amidst breathtaking landscapes.
Lalibela Game Reserve: Also located 31km from Riebeek East, this lodge boasts a friendly atmosphere, allowing guests to enjoy a luxurious stay while encountering diverse wildlife in a welcoming environment.
The nearest major airports for your trip to Riebeek East
Flying into Riebeek East is convenient via two major airports. Port Elizabeth Airport (PLZ) is situated 100km away, with nearby hotels such as No5 Boutique Art Hotel by Mantis, Modern Seaview Apartment, and The Boardwalk Hotel, all offering various transportation services, including 24-hour airport shuttles. Alternatively, East London Airport (ELS) is located 158km away, with options like Premier Hotel East London ICC, Park Place Boutique Guesthouse, and 1st Class Manor B&B, providing shuttle services and airport transportation for a fee. Both airports ensure easy access to Riebeek East for a delightful stay in the Eastern Cape.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some of the best holiday rentals that Riebeek East has to offer?
Melton Manor: This holiday home rental outside of Riebeek East offers an outdoor pool, a furnished patio and a BBQ to help you feel perfectly comfortable in your new surroundings. It has 4 bedrooms and a kitchen with a coffee maker. Kick off your shoes and enjoy yourself with a terrace and an arcade/games room. See all vacation rentals in Riebeek East.
If I need to cancel my hotel reservation in Riebeek East, will I receive a refund?
Yes, most room reservations are refundable provided that you cancel before the accommodation's cancellation deadline, which is usually within 24-48 hours of check in. If you booked a non-refundable reservation, you might be able to cancel it and be given a refund within a 24-hour period of your booking. Filter your search by fully refundable to find flexible hotel deals in Riebeek East.
How is it to stay in Riebeek East?
Those travelling to Riebeek East will definitely enjoy the sights to see and things to do. There are 55 hotels and other accommodation options in the surrounding area. Find out more about Riebeek East.
The hottest months are usually January and February, with an average temperature of 22°C, while the coldest months are July and August, with an average of 16°C. Average annual precipitation for Riebeek East is 486 mm.