CONSERVATION NEWS

CELEBRATING AMAKHALA'S GIRAFFES

On World Giraffe Day, observed annually on 21 June, we celebrate one of Amakhala Game Reserve's earliest conservation milestones. In 1999, when the reserve was established and the old farm fences and infrastructure came down, two giraffes were released: Amakhala's first mega-herbivores. Eight more followed, and the first calves were born the very next year. Today, guests encounter these tall, distinctive mammals daily as they browse among sweet thorn acacias and move through Amakhala's varied landscapes. As the world’s tallest animal, the giraffe remains a powerful reminder of the importance of habitat protection, conservation action and the ongoing work needed to safeguard wild spaces for the future. They also continue to create unforgettable moments — most recently photobombing a couple's engagement during a game drive. Click HERE.

BUSHMAN'S RIVER FLOWING AGAIN

After 11 long years of silence, the Bushman's River is flowing once again! The extraordinary May rains have transformed Amakhala Game Reserve into a vibrant green wilderness, breathing new life into the landscape. With over 250 mm falling across the reserve, the earth is drenched, the river runs full, and everywhere you look, the bush is alive.

Many guests who have visited over the past decade have never experienced Amakhala Game Reserve with a flowing river - making this a truly once-in-a-generation moment. For visitors, it is a rare opportunity to witness nature's recovery in real time: the Bushman's River in full, spectacular flow; wildlife interacting with a living river system; lush landscapes; stunning reflections and exceptional photographic scenery.

The way the landscape reacts to the rain is something truly special. Dry terrain transforms almost overnight, new growth pushes through, wildlife shifts with the changing conditions, and the reserve begins to hum with life. Perhaps most exciting is the return of the birdlife. With water back in the river systems, species scarce for years once again grace Amakhala Game Reserve's riverbanks, from fish eagles and kingfishers to cormorants, night-herons, and the elusive African finfoot.

For owners, guides, staff, and conservationists alike, the river's return is as symbolic as it is practical. After more than a decade of drought, it speaks to the resilience of this ecosystem and offers renewed optimism for wildlife, conservation, and tourism.

Nature, given time and rain, always finds a way.  

COMING SOON TO AMAKHALA

BIG 5 BOAT CRUISES AND GUIDED CANOE SAFARIS

Exciting things are flowing back to Amakhala… The Bushman's River is alive once again, flowing strong after the recent rains and with it comes the return of a truly unforgettable Amakhala experience. Big 5 Boat Cruises and Guided Canoe Safaris are coming back. Glide quietly through the heart of the reserve, where every bend in the river reveals something new. Watch animals gather at the water's edge, marvel at the incredible birdlife overhead, and experience the bush from a perspective few get to see. It's peaceful. It's immersive. It's wildly different from a traditional game drive. Soon, guests will have the opportunity to explore Amakhala by both boat and canoe as an additional daytime activity, adding a whole new dimension to their safari adventure. Trust us, you'll want to be among the first to experience it.  

GUIDED E-BIKE EXPERIENCE

Exciting news! The Woodbury Collection is introducing a unique new activity for guests to Woodbury Lodge, Woodbury Tented Camp and Woodbury Manor. Embark on a guided e-bike experience through historical farmland with the chance to encounter a variety of wildlife such as Cape mountain zebra, giraffe and red hartebeest. E-bikes are well suited to a variety of terrains and offer the opportunity to get some exercise while benefitting from assisted pedalling and extra “oomph” when you need it! Trails can be customised and last up to 2-3 hours.

AMAKHALA GAME RESERVE
LODGE NEWS

Recent rainfall at Bush Lodge exceeded 200mm, transforming the reserve into a beautiful, green landscape. While the rain has kept things interesting, it has also created some unforgettable safari moments. Guests have embraced the adventure, travelling in true safari style aboard our trusty Land Rovers, navigating muddy tracks and water-filled crossings. It's all part of the authentic Bush Lodge experience, where a little mud, a lot of laughter, and the beauty of the surroundings come together to create memories that last a lifetime. 

There's something truly special about winter at Bukela Game Lodge — a season that invites stillness, reflection, and reconnection. The reserve has been beautifully refreshed after recent rains, creating a lush and peaceful setting for your safari escape. Days are best spent exploring the bush, followed by evenings wrapped in warmth and comfort back at the lodge. It's a chance to pause from the pace of everyday life and recharge in nature's quiet rhythm. Discover our winter specials and enjoy a slower, more meaningful escape into the wild. Contact [email protected] for more information.

The view from Woodbury Manor is about to get even better! A brand-new waterhole is under construction, located right in view of the sleeping chalets. As animals are drawn to this reliable water source, guests can look forward to watching a variety of species come and go throughout the day, bringing the magic of Amakhala Game Reserve right to their doorstep.

HillsNek Safari Camp once again enjoys exclusive river views directly in front of the camp! It’s been 11 years since the last flood of the Bushman's River, but winter 2026 has brought unprecedented rainfall in the Eastern Cape. The river in full flow is quite a sight, complemented by the soothing sounds of rushing water and a marked increase in birdlife revelling in the abundance. It is Mother Nature at her finest and a wonderful addition to the Amakhala Game Reserve safari experience, which is now also complemented by new activities for guests to explore. Watch this space to find out more!

At Safari Lodge, every game drive vehicle is more than just transport — it's part of the family. Each of our safari cruisers is given its own name and personality, and guests are often heard referring to them by name. Our latest addition is Dusty, joining Ponyo, Queenie, and Scout. Named for the golden trails and adventures that await, Dusty is ready to take guests into the African bush in comfort and style. Whether tracking elephants at dawn or searching for lions at dusk, Dusty will help create memories that last a lifetime. Watch out for Dusty on your next safari adventure!

As cooler weather settles over the reserve, Induli has embraced the season in all the best ways. Crisp mornings have made for rewarding game drives, while evenings have seen guests gather around the fire with a freshly brewed coffee or a glass of wine. Our wood-heated hot tubs have become a particular favourite, offering a warm retreat with sweeping views across the valley. 
Combined with exceptional wildlife sightings and the lodge's signature hospitality, it has been a month defined by comfort, connection, and the simple pleasure of slowing down in the wild.

Winter at Hlosi Game Lodge is all about family time, shared discovery, and unforgettable bush adventures — a season made for little explorers and grown-ups alike. Every game drive becomes a chance to learn, laugh, and experience the wild together. Our dedicated kids' programme brings the bush to life through fun, hands-on activities that spark curiosity and a love for nature — from animal tracking to fascinating wildlife facts. Children are gently guided into the world of safari in an engaging, memorable way. With our special winter offers now available, we look forward to welcoming you. Contact [email protected] for more information.

We recently received this message received about one of our longest-serving guides, Learnmore "Lenny" Mrawamba. It exemplifies the fact that our guiding team is one of our true strengths at Woodbury Lodge, providing a world-class safari experience to guests from far and wide. "Dear Lenny, we wanted to thank you again for this unforgettable journey through Amakhala. It was an honour to have these experiences near all those beautiful animals. You made every trip a special one, and we had so much fun with your jokes and laughter. Stay the positive person you are. All the best. Mat and Tina".

They’re back! Woodbury Tented Camp is proud to continue its partnership with Dalhousie University (Canada), whose students undertake an immersive three-week field course focused on African conservation and wildlife ecology, led by course coordinators Cynthia Parks and Miriam Gordon. The students are currently in camp working on project proposals and familiarising themselves with the relevant field techniques. This year’s projects are looking at giraffe interactions, red-billed oxpecker behaviour, and small mammal diversity, to name a few! We wish the students best of luck with their research and a memorable stay on Amakhala. 

The last few months have been quite the adventure at Leeuwenbosch! Exceptional rainfall has set the river flowing and the scenery on the reserve is absolutely stunning. As winter settles in, our sunrises and sunsets have been extra special, with mist adding a dramatic touch to game drives. All the waterholes are full, and we are so grateful. For our birding guests, there is simply so much to take in. What a time we are having — and we look forward to the months ahead, with green landscapes, newborn wildlife, and happy guests.

The spirit of safari most certainly doesn't end when you return to Quartermain's camp after your game drive, in fact some might say it is only just beginning... The camp by night adds a whole new dimension to your stay; the atmosphere, the bush sounds, the starry skies, sitting around the warmth of the campfire with a soothing beverage, the tasty food, the enjoyable chats around the dinner table, lamp and candle light. Not to mention arriving back at your tent to enjoy your welcoming hot tub and a comfortable and thrilling night under canvas. 

SPOTTED ON AMAKHALA
GAME RESERVE

To celebrate our wildlife, we share some of the amazing images captured by both our Amakhala Rangers and guests who visit Amakhala Game Reserve.  To have your images considered for inclusion, please email your photograph taken on the Reserve, with your name and surname to [email protected].

Photographs supplied by Nico Nel. 

AMAKHALA FOUNDATION NEWS

SKILLS DEVELOPMENT

After a year of offering all Amakhala Game Reserve staff and community members the opportunity to obtain online qualifications in the Hospitality industry through the Lobster Ink programme, we recently had a joyous graduation celebration at the Amakhala Welcome Centre. A total of 49 candidates graduated with a total of 265 certificates (completed courses), ranging from Chef and Waitering Services to Health & Safety Standards, Front Office essentials, and everything in-between. Participants were able to either do the online courses at our Computer Centre, or at home on their cell phones.

HEALTH OUTREACH

The Amakhala Foundation has once again partnered with the Rhodes University Pharmacy Department and the local Department of Health to provide a series of three Health Outreach sessions at the Sidbury Sports Club. During these free sessions, both young and old are seen for a wide range of health issues, including immunisation, TB checks, blood pressure monitoring, medication reviews, and HIV tests. For community members who live far from the nearest clinic or hospital, these sessions are golden opportunities to access vital healthcare and advice.

If you would like to know more about the Amakhala Foundation click here. 

PLEASE NOTE
WINTER LODGE CLOSURES: 

Bush Lodge: 01 – 31 July 2026
Woodbury Lodge: 16 – 30 June 2026
Woodbury Tented Camp: 16 - 30 June 2026
Quatermains: 26 June – 20 July 2026
Induli: 11 – 29 June 2026
Hillsnek: 10 – 25 June 2026

Reservations: All Lodges, +27 (0) 41 450 5658, [email protected]

Contact Us: Sandra Coetzee (Sales & Marketing Manager), +27 (0)83 652 9170, [email protected] 

Our mailing address is: Amakhala Game Reserve, Cnr 10th Ave & Scarbourough Crescent, Summerstrand, Port Elizabeth, Eastern Cape, 6070, SOUTH AFRICA​​​​​​​​​​​