Samara Karoo Reserve (55 km From Graaff-Reinet)

• Graaff-Reinet

Spanning 70,000 acres of wilderness in the Great Karoo, malaria-free Samara Private Game Reserve offers a Big Five safari with a difference – a unique conservation passion project in a spectacular setting.

Consisting of 11 former livestock farms assembled since 1997, Samara's story is one of restoration. Over two decades vegetation has been rehabilitated and wildlife reintroduced, including the first cheetah, elephant and lion to return in over a century. Samara’s vision now extends beyond its borders to the creation of a landscape-scale conservation project spanning 1.3 million acres. Key to the Samara experience is the concept of co-creation, where every guest plays a role in safeguarding the landscape in perpetuity. 

The landscape itself is breathtakingly beautiful. Samara encompasses four vegetation biomes offering a diversity of topographies and wildlife. Endangered cheetah, black rhino, elephant and springbok roam the extensive plains framed by dramatic purple mountains, whilst herds of Cape mountain zebra, wildebeest and eland cavort on the unique 'Samara Mara' - thousands of acres of plateau grasslands resembling the East African Serengeti.

A total of 26 guests at any one time are invited to join this conservation journey, a guest to land ratio almost unparalleled in Africa.

Accommodation includes:

Karoo Lodge, a lovingly renovated farmhouse encircled by a natural amphitheatre of mountains. Combining colonial comforts and modern day luxuries with a rustic and welcoming feel, Karoo Lodge is the perfect place to relax and allow the tranquillity of the Karoo to envelop you – on the wide verandah in summer or by the cosy fire in winter. With nine double rooms of varying sizes, Karoo Lodge caters for individual travellers, couples and families.

The luxurious Manor House, a striking yet understated villa, unique in its warm design reflecting local landscapes and traditions with a light, modern twist. Upon arrival your eye is drawn through the glass double doors flanked by beaded African artwork and traditional Karoo antiques to the breathtaking views beyond. The scenic mountain landscape unfolds over a 21m infinity pool descending to a waterhole. The Manor comprises 4 luxury suites, which can be booked independently or the entire villa can be taken over on an exclusive-use basis. This option is popular with families and groups looking for privacy, indulgence and complete relaxation.

Food at Samara is served from the Karoo Kitchen, delivering lovingly-prepared fare rustled up by our local chefs. Expect mouthwatering meals using the freshest produce and recipes handed down from generation to generation, evoking that famous Karoo hospitality. Friendly yet unobtrusive service is a Samara hallmark, and the team will welcome you as part of the extended Samara family.

Activities include game drives, guided walks, wilderness picnics, cheetah tracking on foot, aardvark spotting (winter is best for daytime sightings), birding, hiking and a luxury star bed (open October to April). Samara is malaria-free and welcomes children of all ages with a dedicated children’s programme.

A spectacular destination for discerning travellers seeking a holiday with purpose with genuine Karoo hospitality, Samara offers a safari for the soul.