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Bukela Game Lodge Amakhala Game Reserve

5.0 star property
Adults-only lodge with 2 outdoor pools and a full-service spa

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Photo gallery for Bukela Game Lodge Amakhala Game Reserve

2 outdoor pools, pool umbrellas, sun loungers
Property video
Luxury Safari Tent | 1 bedroom, minibar, in-room safe, desk
Luxury Safari Tent | Bathroom | Rainfall showerhead, free toiletries, hair dryer, slippers
Luxury Safari Tent | 1 bedroom, minibar, in-room safe, desk

Reviews

8.6 out of 10
Excellent

Popular amenities

  • Pool
  • Bar
  • All inclusive
  • Spa
  • Breakfast included
  • Parking included

Explore the area

View in a map
Amakhala Game Reserve, Paterson, Eastern Cape
  • Place, Lalibela Game Reserve
    ‪38 min drive‬
  • Place, Rhodes University
    ‪59 min drive‬
  • Place, African Pride Pumba Private Game Reserve
    ‪61 min drive‬

Room options

View all photos for Luxury King/Twin Suite

1 bedroom, minibar, in-room safe, desk

Luxury King/Twin Suite

  • 484 sq ft
  • Sleeps 2
  • 2 Twin Beds

View all photos for Luxury King Suite

1 bedroom, minibar, in-room safe, desk

Luxury King Suite

  • 484 sq ft
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 King Bed

View all photos for Luxury Safari Tent

Luxury Safari Tent | 1 bedroom, minibar, in-room safe, desk

Luxury Safari Tent

10.0 out of 10
Exceptional
(1 review)
  • 484 sq ft
  • Sleeps 2
  • 2 Twin Beds

About the neighborhood

Paterson

Bukela Game Lodge Amakhala Game Reserve places you 16.8 mi (27 km) from Lalibela Game Reserve and 20.1 mi (32.4 km) from Quin Sculpture Garden. This 14-room, 5-star lodge has 2 outdoor pools along with private in-room hot tubs and a full-service spa.
View more Lodges in PatersonOpens in a new window

What's nearby

  • Lalibela Game Reserve - 38 min drive - 20.9 miles
  • Sundays River Dunes - 46 min drive - 33.9 miles
  • Settlers Garden 1820 - 59 min drive - 47.0 miles
  • Rhodes University - 59 min drive - 47.9 miles
  • African Pride Pumba Private Game Reserve - 61 min drive - 36.5 miles

Getting around

  • Port Elizabeth (PLZ) - 73 min drive

About this property

Bukela Game Lodge Amakhala Game Reserve

Adults-only lodge with 2 outdoor pools and a full-service spa
At Bukela Game Lodge Amakhala Game Reserve, guests have access to a full-service spa, 2 outdoor pools, and free WiFi in public areas. There's free parking, and an airport shuttle (available 24 hours) for ZAR 3000 per vehicle roundtrip. Front-desk staff can help secure valuables, and provide local restaurant recommendations. Other amenities at this adults-only lodge include coffee/tea in a common area, a terrace, and laundry facilities.
Bathrooms offer rainfall showers, hair dryers, and free toiletries. Other standard amenities include private hot tubs, balconies or patios, and minibars.
2 outdoor swimming pools are on site.

The recreational activities listed below are available either on site or nearby; fees may apply.

Guests can indulge in a pampering treatment at the lodge's full-service spa. Services include massages.

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Safari Lodge - Amakhala Game Reserve
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  • Breakfast included
  • All inclusive
  • Spa
9.4 out of 10, Exceptional, 21 reviews
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Property amenities

Internet

  • Available in all rooms: WiFi
  • Available in some public areas: Free WiFi

Parking and transportation

  • 24-hour roundtrip airport shuttle on request for a surcharge
  • Free self parking on site

Food and drink

  • Free continental breakfast
  • A bar/lounge
  • A poolside bar
  • A restaurant
  • Coffee and tea in common areas

Things to do

  • 2 outdoor pools
  • Archery
  • Full-service spa
  • Game drive
  • Game viewing
  • Safari

Conveniences

  • Gift shop/newsstand
  • Laundry facilities
  • Limited-hour front desk
  • Safe at front desk

Guest services

  • Housekeeping (daily)
  • Turndown service

Outdoors

  • Barbecue grill
  • Firepit
  • Garden
  • In a national park
  • Pool loungers
  • Pool umbrellas
  • Terrace

Full-service spa

  • Massage

Accessibility

  • No elevator

More

  • 1 building
  • 1 floor
  • Built in 2012
  • Fireplace in lobby
  • Smoking not allowed

Room amenities

Bathroom

  • Free toiletries
  • Hair dryer
  • Private bathroom
  • Rainfall showerhead
  • Slippers
  • Towels provided

Food and drink

  • Coffee/tea maker
  • Free bottled water
  • Limited room service
  • Minibar

More

  • Air conditioning
  • Desk
  • Phone
  • Safe

Policies

Check-in

Check-in start time: 1 PM; Check-in end time: 9:00 PM
Contactless check-in available
Late check-in subject to availability
Minimum check-in age: 18

Check-out

Check-out before 11:00 AM

Special check-in instructions

This property offers transfers from the airport (surcharges may apply); guests must contact the property with arrival details before travel, using the contact information on the booking confirmation
The front desk is open daily from 6:00 AM - 9:00 PM
Front desk staffed during limited hours
If you are planning to arrive after 3:00 PM please contact the property in advance using the information on the booking confirmation
Information provided by the property may be translated using automated translation tools
Guests planning to take part in the afternoon game drive on their arrival day should check in before 2 PM.

Access methods

Front desk (limited hours)

Pets

  • This property doesn't allow pets or service animals

Children and extra beds

  • Children younger than 12 are not permitted to stay at this adults-only property (only guests 12 and older are allowed)

Property payment types

Important information

Fees

You'll be asked to pay these charges at the property:

  • Destination fee: ZAR 275 per person, per night. This fee does not apply to children under 2 years of age.

These are all of the charges provided to us by the property.

Optional extras

These fees and deposits will be charged at check-in, check-out, or the time of service.

  • Airport shuttle fee: ZAR 3000 per vehicle (roundtrip)

This list may not be comprehensive. Fees and deposits might not include tax and are subject to change.

You need to know

Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card, or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
This property accepts major credit cards and cash
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher and a first aid kit
This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios, terraces which may not be suitable for children; if you have concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm they can accommodate you in a suitable room
Please note that cultural norms and guest policies may differ by country and by property; the policies listed are provided by the property
  • Check-in: 1 PM
  • Check-out: 11:00 AM
  • Minimum check-in age: 18
The front desk is available during limited hours. For convenient arrivals and departures, you can take advantage of the airport shuttle (available 24 hours), which is offered for a fee. Driving? This property offers free parking.
Property Registration Number 2004/024354/07

We should mention

Details about charges, deposits, or other important information:

  • This property is managed by a professional host. The provision of housing is linked to their trade, business, or profession.
  • This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios, terraces which may not be suitable for children. If you have concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm they can accommodate you in a suitable room.
  • Charges for extra guests may apply and vary depending on the property's policy.
  • A cash deposit, credit card, or debit card for incidental charges, as well as a government-issued photo ID, may be required at check-in.
  • Special requests are subject to availability at the time of check-in and can't be guaranteed. Certain requests may come with additional charges.
  • This property accepts major credit cards and cash.
  • Onsite safety features include a fire extinguisher and a first aid kit.

Additional information about polices, regulations, and more:

  • There are no elevators.
  • No cribs or infant beds are available.
  • No rollaway or extra beds are available.

National rating

Quality Graded by the Tourism Grading Council of South Africa (TGCSA) – South Africa's official quality assurance organization.

Property is also known as

Bukela Game Lodge Amakhala Game Reserve Lodge
Bukela Game Lodge Amakhala Game Reserve Paterson
Bukela Game Lodge Paterson
Bukela Game Paterson
Bukela Lodge
Bukela Game Lodge Amakhala Game Reserve Lodge Paterson

Frequently asked questions

Are free cancellation options available at Bukela Game Lodge Amakhala Game Reserve?

Bukela Game Lodge Amakhala Game Reserve provides free cancellation on some room rates. If you'd like to learn more, take a look at the cancellation policy on our site.

Is there parking available at Bukela Game Lodge Amakhala Game Reserve?

Yes, self parking is offered for free at the lodge.

Is a spa located at Bukela Game Lodge Amakhala Game Reserve?

There is a full-service spa available for guests to enjoy and services include massages.

Does Bukela Game Lodge Amakhala Game Reserve feature a casino at the property?

No, Bukela Game Lodge Amakhala Game Reserve doesn't have a casino.

Will I find an indoor pool at Bukela Game Lodge Amakhala Game Reserve?

No, this lodge doesn't have an indoor pool; however, there are 2 outdoor pools.

What do couples enjoy most about Bukela Game Lodge Amakhala Game Reserve?

This adults-only lodge offers many amenities for couples such as 2 outdoor pools and a poolside bar with some guestrooms featuring fireplaces.

Are there hot tubs at Bukela Game Lodge Amakhala Game Reserve?

Yes, this lodge features private spa tubs in all guestrooms.

Does Bukela Game Lodge Amakhala Game Reserve feature a restaurant that includes a breakfast menu?

Yes, Bukela Game Lodge Amakhala Game Reserve serves free continental breakfast from its restaurant.

Will Bukela Game Lodge Amakhala Game Reserve allow pets to stay free of charge?

No, pets and service animals aren't allowed at Bukela Game Lodge Amakhala Game Reserve.

Are there connecting rooms at Bukela Game Lodge Amakhala Game Reserve?

No, this lodge doesn't feature connecting guestrooms.

Are there rooms with balconies that I can book at Bukela Game Lodge Amakhala Game Reserve?

Yes, every guestroom at Bukela Game Lodge Amakhala Game Reserve comes with a balcony.

Reviews

Bukela Game Lodge Amakhala Game Reserve Reviews

8.6

Excellent

9.0/10

Cleanliness

8.8/10

Staff & service

8.6/10

Amenities

8.8/10

Property conditions & facilities

8.4/10

Eco-friendliness
Rating 10 - Excellent. 11 out of 19 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 5 out of 19 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 1 out of 19 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 1 out of 19 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 1 out of 19 reviews

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Nancy

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Stayed 3 nights in Dec 2024

10/10 Excellent

Liam

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2024

10/10 Excellent

Alison, Wilton

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
A luxury all- inclusive game lodge experience. The 8km drive from the main road is dirt and gravel so a little challenging for our tiny hire car. A warm welcome on arrival and our room was very spacious and comfortable ( the bed was quite hard but perhaps the mattress was new). An indoor and outdoor shower meant you could wash under the incredible stars in the night sky if so inclined. Lodge was comfortable and well decorated if slightly lacking in atmosphere. Not sure if the pools were for swimming in but they looked attractive. Meals were all delicious with generous portions. The highlight of course was the game drives - you are assigned one ranger for your stay and get two drives per night stay. Our driver Edisonnwas completely brilliant and made sure we saw Lions, Elephant, Giraffe and Rhino as well as numerous species of antelope, baboons and birds. We managed three drives but opted on our last morning to relax at the lodge instead. There are more luxurious lodges out there but this is at the high end of the less expensive lodges on Amakhala.
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2022

8/10 Good

Kevin

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort

Great Lodge with awful access road for cars

A great lodge in Amakhala reserve. Accommodation very good but in need of upkeep. Balcony furniture was in a sorry state and outside shower was too unhygenic to use
Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2021

8/10 Good

Michael

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort

Excellent game drives and good accommodation

Main reason to visit is the game drives and these were excellent. Lucky, our guide, was fun and informative. The tent was amazing and comfortable. The staff,with one exception, were very welcoming and eager to see were pleased. Minor blemishes, evening meals disappointing and minibar items used were not replaced. Amakhala highly recommended for inclusion on South African tour.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2019

10/10 Excellent

Lauren

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort

Brilliant Bukhela

Brilliant service, amazing setting, loved it! Highly recommended
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2019

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveler

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort

The perfect stay for a luxurious safari!

Bukela Game Lodge is the perfect stay for a short safari. We stayed 2 days at the lodge and never experienced such a luxury. The staff makes sure everything is perfectly arranged. Bukela is the only lodge that is not fenced in the area which makes it possible to wake up and have wild animals outside your front door. Would definitely recommend Bukela!
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2019

10/10 Excellent

Paul

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2017

10/10 Excellent

Sébastien

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort

Parfait

Excellent sejour. Staff aux petits soins. Repas all inclusive très agréable. Les guides-safaris se démènent malgré le temps qui n'était avec nous. Si possible prevoir une nuit supplémentaire, une nuitée est trop courte pour profiter pleinement du site
Stayed 1 night in Jul 2025

8/10 Good

Bastian

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Wunderschönes Safari Erlebnis mit sehr netten Personal. Worauf sich Gäste jedoch einstellen müssen: - 7,5km Anreise auf einer sehr schlechten „Safari-Straße“ mit vielen Schlaglöchern und anderen Hindernissen - Kein TV in Suites (Für uns war das nicht störend da die Lage traumhaft ist) - Auswahl an Essen etwas limitiert
Stayed 1 night in Nov 2024

10/10 Excellent

Mary-Laure

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort

Allez-y

Séjour parfait, staff sympathique, bonne nourriture, très bon guide
Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2022

6/10 Okay

Mingyuet

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Bukela is a beautiful stay, facilities are great, friendly staff and our ranger (Sim) was very knowledgeable. Foodwise is really below average, just not good especially for a 5* resort. It felt like diner was prepared during the day and heated up in the evening, just not fresh. Breakfast was really poor. Only meal that was good was the lunch. No snacks during the day. Due to this matter i will not likely to visit Bukela again nor reconmend to anyone which is regretful as the staff and facilities were great. For the price you pay I would have expected high quality meals.

8/10 Good

Verified traveler

Traveled with family
Liked: Amenities, property conditions & facilities
die Lage ist wunderbar, das Wasserloch lockt viele Tiere an, bei uns kamen 2x über 25 Elefanten, die beiden Pools sind klein aber sehr angenehm und schön gemacht, die Hütten könnten sauberer sein, das Essen könnte besser sein, das Servicepersonal war sehr langsam und manchmal einwenig unwissend, die Einführung am Anfang war trocken und kurz.
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2020

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveler

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort

Großartige Anlage mit liebenswertem Personal

Liebe zum Detail, wunderschöne Chalets mit Ofen und Blick in den Giebel. Die Ranger gaben sich jede Mühe, die Big 5 aufzuspüren.
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2019

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveler

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort

Lodge mit hervorragendem Preis-Leistungsverhältnis

Eine großartige Lodge, die sich durch liebevolle Details und persönliche und herzliche Atmosphäre auszeichnet. In den reetgedeckten Häusern hat man einen freien Blick in den Dachgiebel.
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2019

2/10 Terrible

Verified traveler

Disliked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort

Hinweis für Expedia: Die Lodge war überbucht !

Wir mussten in die Hlosi Lodge ausweichen und sind nach einem Tag voller Ärger abgereist. Das Management hat uns zugesagt, Expedia zu informieren und uns den kompletten Buchungsbetrag zu erstatten.

4/10 Poor

Edgar

Liked: Cleanliness
Disliked: Staff & service

Für uns kein Luxusresort und schon gar keine *****

Leider konnten wir bei unserem Aufenthalt die vorangegangenen Bewertungen so gar nicht nachvollziehen. Entweder hatten wir einfach Pech... oder aber die Qualität in "fast" allen Bereichen hat extremst nachgelassen. Wir haben 2 Nächte dort verbracht. Wir wurden weder nach unserem Game Drive am 1. Abend besonders in Empfang genommen, noch wurde der Abend besonders gemütlich zelebriert (es war auch kein Manager vor Ort) und bei meiner Nachfrage nach dem Abendessen, nach einem Amarula wurde ich vom Personal schräg angeschaut, noch wurde generell nach Getränkewünschen gefragt. Man musste jeder Flasche Wasser hinter herlaufen. Am 2. Abend war es dann sehr viel gemütlicher eingedeckt (die Managerin war diesmal vor Ort) dafür waren leider beide Gerichte eine völlige Katastrophe. Das Lamm war so durch, dass man es weder schneiden noch kauen konnte und der Fisch "roch", dass alle Gäste ihn zurück gehen liessen. So etwas darf doch nicht passieren. Am 2. Morgen mussten wir nach der Rückkehr des morgendlichen, dreistündigen Game Drives über 1 Stunde auf Kaffee und Frühstück warten (dabei ist doch bekannt, wann man zurückkommt... und die Managerin war vor Ort) Leider war auch unserer Fahrer bei den ersten Fahrten sehr unmotiviert, was sich dann erst auf der letzten Fahrt gebessert hat. Zum Glück haben wir aber trotzdem einige Tiere zu sehen bekommen. Alles in allem (unsere Klimaanlage in der Hütte war auch noch defekt) waren wir leider ziemlich enttäuscht von der gesamten Entwicklung!

10/10 Excellent

klaus schön, rhein main gebiet

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort

Service, Hotel, Ranger, Tiere....alles perfekt....

Einfach super.......super.....super......super....super......was soll ich noch schreiben...