Amakhala Game Reserve hotel guide. Independent hotel in Amakhala Game Reserve, Eastern Cape

"We had the most incredible stay at Woodbury Tented Camp in the AmaKhala Game Reserve. From the moment we arrived, Frankie made us feel so welcome, setting the tone for what turned out to be a truly memorable experience. The level of service was outstanding throughout. Athenkosi and Lizole looked after us beautifully during meals, always attentive, friendly, and ensuring every detail was just right. The game drives were a real highlight. Greg, our ranger, was fantastic—knowledgeable, passionate, and determined to give us the best possible sightings. We were lucky enough to see most of the Big 5 as well as giraffe and zebra, along with some unexpected treats like a black-backed jackal, a mongoose, and even a troop of baboons making an escape on our way out of the reserve. The tents were extremely comfortable, with everything we needed including air conditioning and heating, and the views over the reserve were simply stunning. Even the main pool overlooks the landscape, making it a perfect place to relax between drives. Meeting the owners, Gile and Jennifer, was another highlight. Their personal involvement and genuine care for guests really set this camp apart. This was a truly special experience, and we would absolutely love to return."

"Great game drives "

"Excellent stay in Safari Lodge. Staff were super helpful and friendly. The game drives with Bon Bon were incredible as we saw so many animals and learnt about their behaviours. Each lodge was individually located so you had a strong sense of privacy. We even watched warthogs coming to drink at the water hole from our lodge. The food was very good. My one suggestion for improvement is either to have an indoor toilet near the dining areas or to spray the outdoor toilet with mosquito repellent each morning as the standing water meant it was full of mosquitos in the morning."

"Staff and guides were all excellent and thoroughly enjoyed the drives. Lodge and food also excellent and we met some fantastic people, however we very very disappointed with our accommodation. We had expected an individual lodge in a private and peaceful setting however we were situated in a lodge attached to another lodge just above the main lodge and kitchen block. So we could constantly hear noise of the kitchen preparations,plates and bins being emptied and staff singing and talking rather than the serenity I had expected from the safari experience. We discovered ours was the only lodge that was not individual and the others seems to have much more secluded private settings."

"This was our first safari which was absolutely amazing. We got to see 4 of the big 5. We had one of the bush lodges. The lodges themselves are beautiful and huge. Our only disappointment was that we were given one of the lodges without a view onto the plain and waterhole. I did request a lodge with a view but they cannot guarantee it. The bath is huge and the outdoor shower was fabulous. The food was really good too. The service and friendliness of the staff was impeccable. Our game driver was really knowledgeable and we got to see the white lions before anyone else showed up. The area is huge. You just never know what to expect. My only criticism was that in the book in your lodge they recommend that you tip the driver at least R300 per person per drive. Apart from this, it was a very memorable and delightful trip"

"Room was clean. Staff attentive. "

"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!"

"Outstanding in every way. Service, staff, facilities, environment, world class dining, game drives, etc. Already planning our next stay."

"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 to keep it running hot all the time. Breakfast was perfectly fine (cereal, yoghurt and honey, and then toast, tomato, bacon and egg) but the same every day. However, overall, I would be back in a flash because a lovely, friendly place with great gardens/grounds at a very affordable price is a god-send amongst all the same reserves!"