Bukela Lodge

The 5* Bukela Lodge, situated in the 8,500 hectare, malaria-free Big 5 Amakhala Game Reserve less than an hours drive from Port Elizabeth, offers a gentle, tranquil escape from the world.

The abundant wildlife that can be seen on guided game drives includes lion, cheetah, black and white rhino, elephant, giraffe, zebra and buffalo.

The main lodge comprises a reception, dining and sitting area with a central fireplace which is always the centre of attraction in winter.

Also available are a media and library area with Internet, television, DVD player, games and books and a large wooden pool deck overlooking a small dam frequented by buffalo.

A separate area known as a boma adjoins the main lodge where bush braais can be enjoyed under the open starry African night.

The lodge offers 4 suites (3 standard suites and one Honeymoon Suite) and 10 luxury safari tents, each individually styled in African simplicity while never compromising on luxury. They are all separated from the main lodge by wooden walkways and indigenous bush.

The suites and safari tents are well appointed for guests' optimal comfort with every amenity, including a large, en-suite bathroom with a spa bath overlooking the African bush, an indoor and outdoor shower for the more adventurous, a central fireplace for romantic evenings, air-conditioning, underfloor heating, a private wooden deck, bar fridge and hot drink amenities. The Honeymoon Suite has a huge 4-poster mahogany bed.

Rates Include

All meals; all locals beverages (excluding premium drinks); the Amakhala Conservation/Community Levy; and 2 shared game drives per day are included.

Children Policy

Children aged 12 years and older are welcome. Normal adult rates apply.

Guest Rating: 4.5 / 5.0 based on 6 ratings

Directions For Drivers

Note that Port Elizabeth has been renamed Gqeberha, and Grahamstown has been renamed Makhanda - both names for each place can appear on roadsigns and maps and can be used interchangeably.

From Port Elizabeth (Gqeberha): Follow the N2 from Port Elizabeth (Gqeberha) towards Grahamstown (Makhanda) for approx 70 km. Turn RIGHT onto the R342 to Alexandria - DO NOT take the first turning onto the R342 (left) to Paterson - the right hand turn onto the R342 is exactly 3 km further down the N2 from the left turn to Paterson. Go through the security gate into the Amakhala Game Reserve and follow the signs to Bukela Game Lodge (you will be driving about 7.5 km through the reserve).

From Grahamstown (Makhanda): Follow the N2 from Grahamstown (Makhanda) towards Port Elizabeth (Gqeberha) for approx 55km. Turn LEFT onto the R342 to Alexandria. Go through the security gate into the Amakhala Game Reserve and follow the signs to Bukela Game Lodge (you will be driving about 7.5 km through the reserve).

Do not get out of your car until you reach the lodge. You may see some wildlife on your way - if you do, slow down and maintain a good distance. Do not drive off-road in any circumstances.

General Information For Guests

Each suite has a well appointed en-suite bathroom with a spa bath overlooking the African bush, indoor and outdoor showers, air conditioning, underfloor heating, a central fireplace, private wooden decks, mini bar, telephone, tea/coffee making facilities, hair dryers and in-room safes.

The safari tents have one bedroom and a full en-suite bathroom, air conditioning, electric blankets and a minibar, an open-plan lounge and viewing deck over-looking the African bush.

The main lodge comprises of a reception area, dining and sitting areas with a central fireplace, media and library area with internet, television, DVD player, games and books. There is also a large wooden pool deck with 2 swimming pools.

There is free Wi-Fi in all rooms and public areas.

A massage therapist is also available (additional cost).

Laundry - Guests personal items can be washed and ironed at a nominal fee. Laundry bags are provided in suite cupboards. Dry cleaning is unfortunately not offered.

Water - the water is derived from a bore hole and is not for human consumption. Bottled water is provided.

Your rate includes a Conservation/Community Levy which will primarily fund the anti-poaching units and a dedicated rhino monitoring programme to preserve and protect the rhinos of Amakhala Game Reserve. In addition, a percentage of the Levy will also go to support their award-winning Conservation Education Programme, which enables local school children to visit the Amakhala Conservation Centre to learn about wildlife conservation and sustainability for future generations.

Popular Alternatives to Bukela Lodge

These are the top properties booked by people who considered staying at Bukela Lodge, but for one reason or another booked a different property. It may have been that Bukela Lodge was not available on the nights they wanted to stay, or they decided that somewhere else was better suited to their budget or itinerary.

If you're not sure which place might be best for your own trip then either give us a call or get in touch via the website, and we'd be delighted to run through the options with you.