Ecca Lodge, Kwandwe Private Game Reserve

Location

The perfect safari ending to a journey along the Garden Route: Ecca Lodge offers breath-taking views of cliffs, overlooking a dense valley. The Kwandwe Private Game Reserve is set upon the edge of the former Karoo Basin and stretches along the Great Fish River. It is advised to fly to Port Elizabeth International Airport, and to proceed to Kwandwe via road or air transfer. An air transfer directly to the Kwandwe Airstrip takes approximately 30 minutes, whilst the distance between Port Elizabeth and Kwandwe takes on average 1hr 45minutes, covering a distance of 160km.

Accommodation

Renowned for its unique and modern style, Ecca Lodge accommodation incorporates stone and mesh walls with sliding doors and iron roofing, to ensure modern luxury yet still encapsulate an interaction with the African bush. The main lodge and six spacious suites overlook the rolling terrain, featuring large living and bathroom areas in addition to both a shower and a bath, and all include a private plunge pool and large viewing deck.

Dining

With a bar and restaurant on site, guests can choose whether to eat in the communal interactive kitchen, on the private deck or in the bush. Picnics and sundowners can be arranged on the reserve, with bush breakfasts and dinners included within the rate. Mealtimes are a celebration of the country’s local cuisine, with a French influence. All dishes incorporate seasonal produce sourced locally, including meat, seafood, vegetables and herbs.

Facilities

Facilities at the lodge include private plunge pools, babysitting services, kid’s play centre and guest area. The guest area features an open interactive kitchen, an infinity pool and shaded deck and lounge area accompanied by a library. For those wishing to explore the reserve, game drives to spot the ‘Big Five’ and a variety of other species including lion, elephant and rhino are held twice daily, alongside guided walks, fishing, canoeing, rhino tracking and bush picnics, all of which are complimentary at the lodge. Archaeological drives, scenic flights, helicopter trips and trips to the local communities are charged additionally. Ecca Lodge is only a 15-minute drive from the historic Heatherton Towers, featuring a well-stocked safari shop.