The highlight of Amakhala Game Reserve’s Silver Jubilee Celebration was the ribbon cutting ceremony on the old bridge over the Bushman’s River, opening an underpass beneath the N2 highway and creating a continuous wildlife area of over 9000 hectares.

This is a vital achievement in the larger land expansion plan, says Andy Hughes, general manager of Amakhala. “I feel that this will be a catalyst for further developments in expan-sion to take place in the not-too-distant future.” 

“Amakhala’s working model of a communal reserve has been a resounding success,” adds Dr William Fowlds, renowned wildlife vet and Amakhala founding member. “The vision is to expand a similar model into the greater landscapes, joining with other reserves into a mega-reserve stretching from Addo to the Fish River.”

Attended by 250 people, the festivities reflected not only Amakhala’s remarkable past, but also its commitment to the future of conservation in the Eastern Cape. 

Read the full story HERE

Photo Credit: Nico Nel

This year’s World Rhino Day, that took place on the 22^nd of September, was a special one for Amakhala Game Reserve. For the first time, we are not only celebrating the white rhino population that has been thriving here for the past 20 years, but also the addition of the indigenous black rhino that once roamed this magnificent landscape, before being shot out by hunters in the early 19^th Century. Over 170 years later, these majestic beasts are back where they belong. 

A small founder population of black rhino was introduced at the end of 2023, and these individuals have subsequently settled in well. There was some doubt as to how much we would actually see them, being a species that prefers dense thickets. We need not have worried: many guests visiting Amakhala have had fantastic sightings of black rhino on safari, arguably one of the most thrilling creatures to encounter in the African bush. 

Our anti-poaching team, with the recent addition of new security manager, Grant Ashe, continue to work tirelessly for the protection of these endangered animals that remain at very real risk from poaching syndicates. Grant and his wife, Nandi, have been welcome additions to the Amakhala family, bringing experience and a passion for wildlife and conservation. 

Excitingly, the recent opening of the Bushman’s River underpass now allows these rhino to access the nearly 2000 hectares of the reserve’s northern section for the first time. Amakhala is proud to share in the vision of restoring these stately animals to their historic range within the Eastern Cape. 

Photo Credit: Nandi Williams

In celebration of World Ranger Day, Amakhala Game Reserve extends heartfelt thanks to our incredible rangers, especially our anti-poaching unit. Your unwavering dedication to protecting wildlife and wild spaces is truly inspiring. This day honours you, the guardians of our natural treasures, and your passion for safeguarding Africa's wonders. We also deeply appreciate the generous support of our sponsors, whose contributions play a vital role in our mission to preserve wildlife. Thank you for helping us make a difference.

Our adorable elephant calf has been soaking up the winter sun and thriving! It is heartwarming to see how tiny he looks next to his mother as they explore together. Watch the video for a glimpse of this special moment. 

Turn up the volume for this one! Watch as the king of the wild commands attention with a thunderous roar that will send shivers down your spine. Experience nature’s “roar” power, beautifully captured by Nico Nel. 

The Amakhala Foundation maintains a strong focus on providing educational opportunities to local young people. Since its inception 15 years ago, it has supported the educational development and enrichment of children from the surrounding communities, ranging from the age of 2 years to the early 20s.

Our iJosi Preschool caters for 2 to 4-year-olds, with a daily programme of stimulating activities and a nutritious breakfast. Bursaries and transport assistance are provided to Amakhala children to attend the local primary school from Grade R to Grade 3, with weekly literacy and numeracy support sessions also being provided by The Amakhala Foundation through the use of digital tablets, library sessions and creative activities.

For primary school pupils from a number of schools, there is a strong Environmental Education programme that inducts them into environmental awareness through the celebration of Water Day, Wildlife Day and Arbor Day. The Amakhala Foundation also runs a Coaching for Conservation programme for Grade 5 learners, which encompasses both soccer skills and information about different animals such as rhinos, cheetah and elephants.

Higher primary and senior school pupils receive school uniform and stationery support for attending school in neighbouring cities, as well as the opportunity to access reading material and learning support material at our Computer Learning Centre. Matriculants are given career advice and further training and skills development opportunities, ranging from obtaining driver’s licenses to qualifying as dog handlers or field guides.  

Nkosinathi Tase is a young man who grew up with his grandmother in one of the communities on Amakhala Game Reserve. He did his schooling in Gqeberha and then started off as a scullery hand in one of the lodges, but always dreamt of becoming a field guide, making it his business to obtain his driver’s license as a first step. He received a bursary through the Amakhala Foundation to attend training at the Ulovane Guiding Academy, and thereafter an internship at Shamwari Game Reserve. The Foundation assisted him in getting his FGHASA assessments done and paid for, and in July 2024 he returned to Amakhala as a fully-fledged field guide for Safari Lodge.

Nkosinathi says his favourite animal is a lion, because of their family/pride structure, and his best wildlife sighting so far is of a male lion chasing two male cheetah. His inspiration for becoming a field guide came from being taken on game drives on Amakhala when he returned home during the holidays. It underscores the Foundation’s belief that the future of conservation starts with the youth. 

Woodbury Manor

The launch of Woodbury Manor is around the corner! Builders, thatchers, landscapers and artisans of a wide variety have been hard at work preparing for the opening up of this exclusive property next month. Solar panels and inverters are in, new staff members have been appointed to join the Woodbury Team, and the soft furnishings for the sleeping units and living areas are finally being assembled to create the perfect safari atmosphere. It’s time for the finishing touches and we can’t wait to welcome our first guests to this unique destination in the Woodbury portfolio. At least the spectacular views need no adjustments!

Induli Game Lodge

The newest gem at Amakhala Game Reserve. Nestled on 22,000 acres of malaria-free Eastern Cape wilderness, Induli (meaning "hilltop" in isiXhosa) offers an unforgettable safari experience. Guests enjoy locally-inspired cuisine, seasonal ingredients, and fine South African wines. With a strong focus on conservation and ecotourism, Induli is dedicated to preserving the wilderness for future generations. Whether it is your first or return visit, we invite you to reconnect with nature and create lasting memories in this stunning, serene setting. When last did you step on wild ground? We look forward to welcoming you. 

Bukela Game Lodge

With the busy season just around the corner, Bukela Lodge is ready to welcome visitors for a truly unforgettable safari experience. We are excited to be your choice for an extraordinary journey into the heart of the wild. Our team is dedicated to providing exceptional stays filled with incredible African adventures. For this reason, we have expanded our guiding expertise to ensure every moment is special, so our guests leave with many amazing memories to cherish. At Bukela Lodge, we can’t wait to make this high season a memorable one for all our guests!

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Bush Lodge

During the past month, Bush Lodge was closed for essential maintenance, including re-thatching and canvas refurbishment. The renovations aimed to enhance guest experience, while also preserving the lodge’s charm and functionality. Despite the busy schedule, the work was completed efficiently, ensuring the lodge’s continued comfort and appeal. We look forward to welcoming guests back to a refreshed and inviting environment.

Photo Credit:  Bush Lodge 

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HillsNek Safari Camp

“As long as there was coffee in the world, how bad could things be?” said Cassandra Clare. Here at HillsNek, we couldn't agree more! That's why we've teamed up with local coffee legends, Mastertons, for expert coffee training and barista courses. Now, ready to craft the perfect brew, our team is excited to delight our guests with exceptional cappuccinos, lattes, and Americanos — in the heart of the African bush! Our chosen blend is Mastertons Chipembere Coffee Blend, a medium to dark roast All-African Coffee, made with purpose, because a portion of the proceeds of every cup goes to rhino conservation. 

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Hlosi Game Lodge

Watching the majestic elephants come to drink from our swimming pool is one of our daily highlights at Hlosi Lodge. Our guests can’t get enough of these incredible moments, and honestly, neither can we! If it’s not the hippos keeping everyone entertained, it’s the amazing animal activity around the pool. Picture yourself sitting on the deck, enjoying a refreshing drink, and watching these magnificent creatures up close - without even leaving the lodge. It’s truly bucket-list stuff right here at Hlosi Lodge, and we can’t wait for you to experience it with us!

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Leeuwenbosch Country House

It’s been a wonderfully busy winter as we hosted many veterinary university groups from the UK and US, here to learn about the bigger animals, our bush and the culture in our country. They enjoyed many game drives, encountering elephants in the misty mornings, lions in the beautiful pink sunsets, and breathtaking views all over the reserve. We have also welcomed a baby elephant, baby Nyala! To sit and take it all in is such food for the soul. We are dedicated to providing our guests with warmth and our Leeuwenbosch hospitality, and we thank them for returning and supporting us!   

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Quatermain's 1920's Safari Camp

Guests at Quatermain's 1920's Safari Camp are absolutely loving our new bar area. Situated in a cosy corner of the lapa, the camp’s main socialisation area, the new bar provides the perfect spot to enjoy a drink or two whilst chatting to other guests about the day’s adventures. We think you will agree that, as shown perfectly in the accompanying photo, the bar exudes a timeless charm as it basks in the soft, warm glow of lamp light. Along with the vintage decor, this new area has helped to continue to convey the ambiance of nostalgia in our guest areas.

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Safari Lodge

We’re thrilled to announce an enhancement to our Tuskers Package! The three-day package now includes a full-day excursion to Addo Elephant National Park, replacing the previous morning-only drive. This upgrade provides guests with ample time to observe the park's magnificent elephants, particularly during midday when they frequently visit waterholes. The extended duration in the park offers a richer and more immersive safari experience, increasing your chances of spotting these incredible animals. Enjoy the extended adventure and make the most of your visit to Addo Elephant National Park!

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Woodbury Tented Camp

Woodbury Tented Camp has always acknowledged its roots in the farming traditions that preceded its creation as a safari destination. The winding paths that lead to each tent are a throwback to the Gush family’s camping adventures in bygone eras, and the antique rotary-dial telephone mounted in the bar could tell a story or two. Likewise, the sneezewood poles that have been tastefully used around the camp are repurposed fence poles from livestock farming days. The latest addition using these poles is a beautifully handmade landing deck that allows guests to climb up to their game viewing vehicles at the start of each safari drive.

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Woodbury Lodge

Winter landscaping at Woodbury Lodge has brought a fresh look to the establishment – right on cue for spring. Emphasis has been placed on garden elements that incorporate indigenous vegetation in a manner that complements the stone thatch style of the lodge itself. From the famous aloes of Amakhala to iconic indigenous trees such as the cabbage tree (Cussonia spicata) and that carbon sequestering champion, the spekboom (Portulacaria afra), the gardens at Woodbury Lodge are a green paradise of Eastern Cape flora. This in turn supports a diversity of birdlife, pollinators and small mammals that add to the tranquil atmosphere for our guests at Woodbury. 

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In an exciting new initiative, we will be sharing some of the amazing wildlife images captured by both our Amakhala Rangers and guests who visit the Amakhala Game Reserve. To have your images considered for inclusion, please email your photograph taken on the Reserve, with your name and surname to sandra@amakhala.co.za. 

Photographs supplied by Strength Photography, a guest visiting Amakhala Game Reserve. 

Image credits: Strength Photography