Lalibela Wildlife Reserve
Game Reserve

Lalibela Wildlife Reserve

South Africa 75 km² (29 mi²) Est. 2002

About Lalibela Wildlife Reserve

Lalibela Wildlife Reserve is a family-owned, malaria-free Big Five destination in the Eastern Cape, encompassing 7,500 hectares of Valley Bushveld near the Bushman's River. Named after the ancient Ethiopian rock-hewn churches, Lalibela has been steadily building its reputation as a quality safari option for travellers combining wildlife with the Garden Route. The reserve supports all Big Five alongside giraffe, hippo, cheetah, and over 280 bird species. Lalibela operates three distinct lodges — including the innovative Lentaba Lodge with its wheelchair-accessible game-viewing vehicle — making it one of the most inclusive safari destinations in South Africa. The reserve's community upliftment programme provides education and employment to surrounding villages.

0

Safari Tours

3.7

Avg Rating

4/5

Big Five

24

Years Protected

Highlights

  • Malaria-free Big Five with wheelchair-accessible game vehicles
  • Three lodges at different price points
  • Strong community upliftment programmes
  • Easy Garden Route combination
  • Family-friendly with dedicated children's activities

Considerations

  • Restocked reserve — not a naturally wild ecosystem
  • Relatively small for large predator territories
  • Game density varies seasonally
  • Less wilderness atmosphere than larger 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

Lalibela is approximately 80 km (1 hour) from Port Elizabeth along the N2. Easy transfer from PE airport. Well-positioned for Garden Route itineraries.

Nearest Airport

Chief Dawid Stuurman International Airport (PLZ)

Nearest City

Port Elizabeth

Drive Time

1 hour