Lalibela Game Reserve
It's quiet, your ears are singing to the tune of silence. It is so dark, you can barely make out the shape of the large windows. In the distance, a hyena laughs, welcome, you are now in Africa!
Lalibela is the only private game reserve in the Eastern Cape with no public roads running through it and boasts three different lodges for you to choose from. Spread over 7 500 hectares, this game reserve prides itself on some of the best Big 5 viewing in South Africa. As it is easy to reach and in a malaria free area, you should definitely consider this beautiful reserve when you are touring through the Garden Route. You can enjoy the rush of a night game drive, or have a wonderful learning experience through the expertly trained guides before the sun is up.
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Of all three lodges, Tree Tops must be my favourite. The idea of sleeping amoungst the tree tops in a luxurious tent with a private balcony, sounds like my idea of heaven. Just imagine sitting quietly, sipping on a glass of good red wine, listening intently to the sounds of Africa. There is even a small watering hole nearby for you to keep watch over, you might spot an elusive bat-eared fox! Sounds like the perfect honeymoon to me!
Mark's Camp is most popular with families with children. It is elegant, yet practical, with a large, outdoor boma area, perfect for a potjie or a steak braai. The game reserve has an excellent children's programme, they understand that many families would love to see the Big 5, but don't want to take their children into malarial areas. Lalibela has a dedicated team and special game drives for the little ones, no close encounters of the toothed kind for them!
The third camp, Lentaba Lodge, has the best view of the main watering hole, which is lit up at night. With eight secluded and airconditioned chalets, you are guaranteed to feel at home and as if you are the only person in the reserve.
You will be treated to traditional African dances, wonderfully prepared food and great company. The knowledgable and friendly staff will be at your beck and call, ready to make sure that you have the time of your life!
I will definitely keep Lalibela in mind next time I'm in the Eastern Cape, that's a promise I can keep.
Lalibela Game Reserve is situated on the N2 between Port Elizabeth and Grahamstown and is easily accessible by making use of one of the following:
Road transfer: Transfers can be arranged between Port Elizabeth Airport & hotels and Lalibela. Please contact Lalibela directly for groups of 5 or more guests.
Self drive: Lalibela is 90km from the Port Elizabeth Airport and the drive takes about 1 hour:
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Take the N2 highway out of Port Elizabeth in the direction of Grahamstown.
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After about 51 km you will come to a large "spaghetti" junction. Follow the signs for N2 Grahamstown.
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Drive along the N2 until you cross the Bushman's River.
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Exactly 13 km later you will see the large Lalibela sign on your left hand side
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If you like, you can fly into Port Elizabeth and hire a car from the airport without any hassle. There are regular flights on some of the low cost carriers and as for car rental, you are spoilt for choice since there are several car hire agencies in and around Port Elizabeth Airport. There are no flights into Grahamstown, so Port Elizabeth is your best bet if you wish to get to Lalibela quickly.
Lalibela is also popular a popular choice as a wedding venue, have a look at this weddings at Lalibela by Tie the Knot for some original ideas.
Ask our lovely travel consultant your questions here. She would love to assist.
