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