Amakhala Game Reserve
Game Reserve

Amakhala Game Reserve

South Africa 75 km² (29 mi²) Est. 1999

About Amakhala Game Reserve

Amakhala Game Reserve is a collection of family-owned farms in the Eastern Cape's Bushman's River valley that have been consolidated into a 7,500-hectare private Big Five game reserve. Situated in the malaria-free Frontier Country between Port Elizabeth and Grahamstown, Amakhala offers an accessible and family-friendly safari experience. The reserve's mix of Valley Bushveld, grassland, and riverine forest supports all Big Five plus hippo, hyena, giraffe, and over 250 bird species. Amakhala is particularly known for its conservation work, including successful rhino breeding programmes and elephant reintroduction. Its proximity to the Garden Route makes it a popular safari add-on for coastal road-trippers.

0

Safari Tours

3.7

Avg Rating

4/5

Big Five

27

Years Protected

Highlights

  • Malaria-free Big Five safari in the Eastern Cape
  • Family-friendly with excellent child programmes
  • Easy to combine with Garden Route road trip
  • Range of accommodation from budget to luxury
  • Strong conservation and rhino breeding programmes

Considerations

  • Restocked reserve — not a naturally wild ecosystem
  • Relatively small — limited space for large herds
  • Less wilderness atmosphere than Kruger or Sabi Sands
  • Game density lower than top-tier reserves

Wildlife

Big Five Status

🦁

Lion

common

🐆

Leopard

Not present

🐘

Elephant

common

🦬

Buffalo

common

🦏

Rhino

rare

Notable Species

Lion

Common

Elephant

Common

Cape Buffalo

Common

Black Rhino

Rare

White Rhino

Common

Giraffe

Common

Zebra

Common

Kudu

Common

Common Occasional Rare

Best Time to Visit

Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Peak Season Good Time Less Ideal

Climate Overview

Getting There

Amakhala is approximately 80 km (1 hour) from Port Elizabeth along the N2 highway towards Grahamstown. Transfer from PE airport takes about 1 hour. The reserve is well-positioned for Garden Route itineraries.

Nearest Airport

Chief Dawid Stuurman International Airport (PLZ)

Nearest City

Port Elizabeth

Drive Time

1 hour