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