There are several game reserves near Bathurst, South Africa. Experience close up viewing of the Big 5 – lion, elephant, rhino, leopard and buffalo – as well as multitudes of other African wildlife from the comfort of an open game drive vehicle, or take in the unique ecosystems of the rivers during a tranquil boat cruise.
The Eastern Cape is home to 4 of South Africa’s National Parks. These parks are extremely important with the conservation and preservation of South Africa’s natural areas and fauna and flora.Some notable local reserves include 3 valleys Reserve, Waters Meeting Nature Reserve, Mansfields Nature Reserve and Lushington Valley Reserve.
Three Valleys Nature Reserve
Three Valleys – Nestled in the heartland of the Eastern Cape, South Africa, this tranquil reserve boasts spectacular rolling views while offering a truly authentic wildlife experience. We believe that a single action can make a difference in nature, and that collective action can greatly impact the world.
Mansfields Reserve
Mansfield Private Reserve, located 8km from Port Alfred, is a small private reserve offering self-catering accommodation. Plains game inhabits the Eastern Cape bushveld, and the indigenous Aloe grows in abundance on the farm.
The Farm Bathurst
Escape to a tranquil and peaceful farm style holiday or weekend getaway and let us help you relax and switch off to the world.
The Farm has a wide variety of wild animals that roam freely, just like they would in their natural habitat on this 125 hectares Farm
The Farm is situated between Makanda (Grahamstown) and Bathurst in the Eastern Cape with good roads leading to and from 2 major centers, Gqueberha (Port Elizabeth) and Buffalo City (East London) – both less than two hours away by road.
Buffalo Kloof
Buffalo Kloof, Merging sustainable hunting, photographic safaris and conservation. Eastern Cape, #bespokesafari
Waters Meeting Nature Reserve
Waters Meeting Nature Reserve, The 174ha Waters Meeting Nature Reserve in the Eastern Cape lies between Bathhurst and Port Alfred, and is named for the part of the Kowie River several kilometres upstream where freshwater meets saltwater from the Kowie River Mouth.
There are three main hiking trails through the reserve, from 3 to 9km, through coastal thicket Animals you are likely to see include rock dassies, blue duiker, otters, Kudu, waterbuck and bushpig. There is also an abundance of birdlife, including fish eagles.
Some of the popular bigger reserves include:
1. Addo Elephant National Park – Located about 150 kilometers northeast of Bathurst , this national park is known for its large population of elephants, as well as other wildlife such as lions, buffalo, and rhinos.
3. Kariega Game Reserve: Located around 140 kilometers east of Bathurst, Kariega is a family-owned private game reserve. It boasts abundant wildlife, including the Big Five, and offers a range of activities such as game drives, walking safaris, and river cruises.
4. Amakhala Game Reserve: Situated about 120 kilometers east of Bathurst, Amakhala is another private game reserve that offers diverse wildlife sightings and safari experiences. It is known for its conservation efforts and community involvement.
5. Kwandwe Private Game Reserve: Located approximately 190 kilometers east of Bathurst, Kwandwe is a 22,000-hectare private game reserve that offers exclusive wildlife encounters. It is home to a variety of animals, including the Big Five, cheetahs, and various bird species.
6. Pure Nature Family Lodge: A stay that is fun – and longer than just three days. In a place that captures and reflects the diversity of South Africa. The breathtakingly diverse flora and fauna, the culinary delights, the uniquely varied landscape and the people, whose warmth is hard to beat. Book Now.
These are just a few of the game reserves near Bathurst, South Africa. There are also other smaller reserves and private game lodges in the surrounding areas.
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