Kariega Game Reserve - River Lodge

4.0 star property
Beach location and outdoor pool

Choose dates to view prices

Photo gallery for Kariega Game Reserve - River Lodge

Outdoor pool, pool umbrellas, sun loungers
Boating
Couples treatment rooms, body treatments, aromatherapy
Lounge
Property grounds

Reviews

8.6 out of 10
Excellent

Popular amenities

  • Pool
  • Breakfast included
  • All inclusive
  • Spa
  • Parking included
  • Free WiFi

Explore the area

View in a map
Kenton-on-Sea, Kenton on Sea, Eastern Cape, 6191
  • Place, Kenton Marina
    ‪15 min drive‬
  • Place, Kariega Heights
    ‪15 min drive‬
  • Place, Kenton on Sea Beach
    ‪17 min drive‬

Room options

River Lodge Suite

  • Hill view
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 Double Bed OR 2 Twin Beds

About the neighborhood

Kenton on Sea

Kariega Game Reserve - River Lodge places you within a 15-minute drive of Kariega Heights and Kariega Centre. This 10-room, 4-star lodge has a full-service spa along with an outdoor pool and free in-room WiFi.

What's nearby

  • Kenton Marina - 15 min drive - 10.8 miles
  • Kariega Heights - 15 min drive - 11.3 miles
  • Kariega Centre - 15 min drive - 11.0 miles
  • Mosaic Studio - 17 min drive - 11.5 miles
  • Kenton on Sea Beach - 17 min drive - 11.9 miles

Getting around

  • Port Elizabeth (PLZ) - 115 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Stanley's Restaurant - ‬11 min drive
  • ‪Horn's Up - ‬27 min drive
  • ‪Dorothy Long - ‬11 min drive

About this property

Kariega Game Reserve - River Lodge

Beach location and outdoor pool
Guests staying at Kariega Game Reserve - River Lodge enjoy access to a full-service spa, an outdoor pool, and free WiFi in public areas. You can take advantage of free parking, along with an airport shuttle (available on request) for ZAR 3300.00 per person one-way. Staff members are on hand to provide dry cleaning/laundry services and luggage storage. Other amenities at this all-inclusive lodge include coffee/tea in a common area, a computer station, and a library.
Guests can stay connected with free WiFi. Bathrooms offer deep soaking tubs, hair dryers, and free toiletries. Balconies, minibars, and coffee makers are also standard. Change of towels is available on request.
Recreational amenities at the lodge include an outdoor pool.

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

Kariega Wellness Centre has 2 treatment rooms including rooms for couples. Services include deep-tissue massages, hot stone massages, sports massages, and Swedish massages. A variety of treatment therapies are provided, including aromatherapy and Ayurvedic.

Similar properties

Property amenities

Internet

  • Available in all rooms: Free WiFi
  • In-room WiFi speed: 100+ Mbps (good for 1–2 people or up to 6 devices)
  • Available in some public areas: Free WiFi

Parking and transportation

  • Roundtrip airport shuttle (surcharge) from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM on request
  • Area shuttle up to 15 km
  • Free self parking on site

Food and drink

  • Free full breakfast available daily
  • A bar/lounge
  • A restaurant
  • Coffee and tea in common areas

Restaurants on site

  • Boma

Things to do

  • Boat tours
  • Fishing
  • Full-service spa
  • Game drive
  • Game viewing
  • Library
  • Outdoor pool
  • Rowing/canoeing
  • TV in common areas

Family friendly

  • Mini-fridge
  • Outdoor pool
  • Separate bedroom

Conveniences

  • Gift shop/newsstand
  • Luggage storage

Guest services

  • Change of towels on request
  • Dry cleaning/laundry service
  • Housekeeping (daily)

Business services

  • Computer station

Outdoors

  • Beach towels
  • Pool loungers
  • Pool umbrellas
  • Terrace

Full-service spa

  • 2 treatment rooms
  • Aromatherapy
  • Ayurvedic treatments
  • Body scrubs
  • Body wraps
  • Couples treatment rooms
  • Deep-tissue massages
  • Facials
  • Hot stone massages
  • Manicures/pedicures
  • Sports massages
  • Swedish massages
  • Thai massages

Accessibility

  • No elevator

More

  • Fireplace in lobby
  • Smoking not allowed

Room amenities

Bedroom

  • Bedsheets provided

Bathroom

  • Bathrobes
  • Deep soaking bathtub
  • Free toiletries
  • Hair dryer
  • Separate bathtub and shower
  • Towels provided

Food and drink

  • Coffee/tea maker
  • Electric kettle
  • Free bottled water
  • Mini-fridge
  • Minibar

More

  • Air conditioning
  • Desk
  • Safe

Policies

Check-in

Check-in start time: 2 PM; Check-in end time: 6 PM
Minimum check-in age: 18

Check-out

Check-out before 10 AM

Special check-in instructions

This property offers transfers from the airport (surcharges may apply); to arrange pick-up, guests must contact the property 72 hours prior to arrival, using the contact information on the booking confirmation
There is no front desk at this property
The host will greet guests on arrival
This property doesn't offer after-hours check-in
Information provided by the property may be translated using automated translation tools

Access methods

Host will greet you

Pets

  • This property doesn't allow pets or service animals

Property payment types

Important information

Optional extras

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

  • Airport shuttle fee: ZAR 3300.00 per person (one-way)

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, debit cards, and cash
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
  • Check-in: 2 PM—-6 PM
  • Check-out: 10 AM
  • Minimum check-in age: 18
For convenient arrivals and departures, you can take advantage of the airport shuttle (available during limited hours), which is offered for a fee. Driving? This property offers free parking.

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, debit cards, and cash.

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

Kariega Game Reserve River
Kariega Game Reserve River Kenton On Sea
Kariega Game Reserve River Lodge
Kariega Game Reserve River Lodge Kenton On Sea
Kariega Game Reserve Hotel Kenton-On-Sea
Kariega Game Reserve River
Kariega Game Reserve - River Lodge Lodge
Kariega Game Reserve - River Lodge Kenton on Sea
Kariega Game Reserve - River Lodge Lodge Kenton on Sea

Frequently asked questions

Can I book all-inclusive options at Kariega Game Reserve - River Lodge?

Kariega Game Reserve - River Lodge is an all-inclusive resort and rates come with à la carte meals.

Are free cancellation options available at Kariega Game Reserve - River Lodge?

Kariega Game Reserve - River Lodge offers free cancellation on certain room rates. For more details, review the cancellation policy on our site.

Is parking available on site at Kariega Game Reserve - River Lodge?

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

Is there a spa at Kariega Game Reserve - River Lodge?

Kariega Wellness Centre is the lodge's spa and services include Thai massages, deep-tissue massages, body wraps, and Ayurvedic treatments.

Does Kariega Game Reserve - River Lodge have a casino?

No, Kariega Game Reserve - River Lodge doesn't have a casino.

Will I find an indoor pool at Kariega Game Reserve - River Lodge?

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

Is Kariega Game Reserve - River Lodge a good place to stay for couples?

There are plenty of amenities for couples at this lodge, including an outdoor pool, a bar, and a restaurant.

Are there hot tubs at Kariega Game Reserve - River Lodge?

No, this lodge doesn't have a spa tub.

Does Kariega Game Reserve - River Lodge feature a restaurant that includes a breakfast menu?

Yes, Kariega Game Reserve - River Lodge serves free full breakfasts at Boma each morning.

Will Kariega Game Reserve - River Lodge allow pets to stay for free?

No, pets and service animals aren't allowed at Kariega Game Reserve - River Lodge.

Are there connecting rooms at Kariega Game Reserve - River Lodge?

No, there aren't connecting guestrooms at this lodge.

Can I book a room with a balcony at Kariega Game Reserve - River Lodge?

Yes, every guestroom at Kariega Game Reserve - River Lodge comes with a balcony with some featuring hill or resort views.

Kariega Game Reserve - River Lodge Reviews

Reviews

8.6

Excellent

Rating 10 - Excellent. 6 out of 10 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 1 out of 10 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 3 out of 10 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 10 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 10 reviews

8.6/10

Cleanliness

9.4/10

Staff & service

10/10

Amenities

9.0/10

Property conditions & facilities

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Michael

Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2025

10/10 Excellent

Robert

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

Wonderful!

Absolutely wonderful stay. Our driver Leigh was excellent - thank you! The whole team are brilliant, the location on the river is stunning and we went via boat for part of one drive. Saw heaps of animals on safari. An unforgettable experience.
Stayed 2 nights in Jan 2025

10/10 Excellent

Elaine

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Amazing game reserve with very knowledgeable rangers. Very bespoke and special. Facilities were luxurious and hospitality was amazing.,highly recommend .
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2024

6/10 Okay

annie

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2023

6/10 Okay

Coralie

Liked: Room comfort
Disliked: Cleanliness

Disapppointing stay

Good cases taken directly to our lodge which we got to by golf cart. (This broke down the following day and replacements lights did not work so was given a torch!)(Really!) Barbeque one evening but difficult to actually see what I was eating as the light wasn't good. Face clothes disappeared, asked for 2 replacements, 1 given, likewise mini bar wasn't stocked properly. We were told that our group had to all do the same thing during the free time between drives, yet when we went to the beach, we had people from other groups joining us. Likewise when we asked about doing a bush walk, we went with another 2 people and it was only from the main lodge, not what we'd been given to expect, which was why my mother decided not to come. There was never any canoe session which we'd also requested and was the reason we'd chosen the river lodge for the other activities between drives. There was an issue with the pool malfunctioning and making a noise on our last night which was reported but nothing done. The phone to the lodge didn't work! The only way to contact reception was by going outside, getting in the golf cart and driving up to the main lodge. Not good enough as it was horrible being so cut off. No wifi in lodges which would be better. Towels from the pool were not removed but just left after day 1, so never checked. Query Big5 as the leopard hasn't been seen for 6 months we were told.
Stayed 3 nights in May 2018

10/10 Excellent

hoyland, france

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

fantastic stay

from start to the end it was just the best time I have had on a adventure holiday every thing was 100% Thanks to all the crew at River Lodge.

10/10 Excellent

Vaughan, England

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

First Class Game Reserve

A wonderful game reserve, staff extremely friendly and helpful,the game rangers knowledgable and friendly.Food excellent, room excellent. It would be hard to find a better game reserve. Saw many wonderful animals at close range.

8/10 Good

Verified traveler

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

cute rhinos

Wonderful place.

6/10 Okay

Verified traveler

Liked: Staff & service, room comfort

Sehr schöne Logde mit Verbesserungspotential

Die River Lodge liegt idyllisch am Bushmanriver und bietet sich für Kurzurlaube (bis 4 Tage) von Paaren ohne Kinder an. Die Ranger sind ausserordentlich bemüht, den Aufenthalt so angenehm wie möglich zu gestalten und alle Wünsche der Gäste zu erfüllen. Die Ausfahrten am Morgen und Abend können mit Bootsfahrten und Wanderungen kombiniert werden. Das Angebot an Tieren ist großartig. Das Wilderness Fly Camp (Übernachtung im Zelt in der Wildness) ist ein absolutes Erlebnis. Bei längeren Aufenthalten zeigt sich jedoch schnell, daß die Lodge wenig Abwechslung in Bezug auf die Speisekarte am Abend und beim Frühstück bietet. Alle Getränke sind im Preis inklusive und die Auswahl ist recht groß. Die Qualität der Zimmer hat im Laufe der Jahre etwas gelitten (Abnutzungserscheinungen, Schimmel in der Dusche, fleckige Möblierung). Im Gegensatz zum sehr guten Service im Haupthaus (Bar, Restaurant) läßt das Housekeeping zu wünschen übrig. Während unseres Aufenthaltes frühstückte der Besitzer der Lodge Sonntags morgens zusammen mit seinen privaten Gästen auf der Terrasse am Fluß, während die zahlenden Gäste trotz schönsten Wetters drinnen im Restaurant essen mussten. Insgesamt erscheint uns das Preis-Leistungsverhältnis nicht ganz stimmig.