To reach Bukela Game Lodge from an easterly direction (PE/Cape Town), take the N2 past Port Elizabeth. After about 50 km from Port Elizabeth, follow the N2, keeping left at the intersection and continuing on the N2 towards Grahamstown for approximately 20 km. DO NOT take the R342 (left) to Paterson. The right hand turn onto the R342 is exactly 3km further down the N2. Turn RIGHT onto the R342 to Alexandria (Karl Landman Monument). Go through the Amakhala security gate. Follow the signs to Bukela Game Lodge (+/- 7.5km turn right).

If you have booked on an all inclusive basis, part of your reservation includes two complimentary game drives per night stayed: an afternoon game drive at 3pm in winter / 4pm in summer, and a morning game drive at 7am in winter / 6am in summer. If you want to do additional drives, such as a night drive or a private use of vehicle for a specialist experience such as a birding safari, advance booking ensures you secure a spot depending on ranger availability.

The lodge is easily accessible as the main roads are graded and well-maintained. Both 4x4’s and standard vehicles can navigate the roads comfortably.

If you have booked an all inclusive stay, all of your meals are included in your stay, including breakfast, lunch and dinner as well as light snacks and refreshments. Depending on the booking agent and package, some local beverages might also be included. If drinks are not part of your package, they will be available for purchase at an additional cost.

Yes, we cater to various dietary requirements including gluten-free, vegan, vegetarian, coeliac and kosher. While we strive to accommodate all dietary needs, please do inform us in advance to ensure we can meet your specific requests. Given the remoteness of our location, advance notice is crucial in ensuring that we can accommodate your dietary needs.

For your visit to Bukela Game Lodge, we recommend wearing clothing in natural, muted tones. Bright or neon colours should be avoided to ensure a more immersive and less disruptive experience during game drives.

At Bukela Game Lodge, you’ll have the chance to encounter the famous Big Five (lion, leopard, rhino, elephant and buffalo), as well as a diverse array of other spectacular South African wildlife such as a large range of antelope and bird species. Our game drives offer an exceptional opportunity to observe African animals in their natural habitat. Please keep in mind that we are a wildlife reserve and not a zoo, and while our talented rangers will do their best, specific animal sightings are not always guaranteed.

Our safari vehicles are open-air 4x4’s, designed for optimal visibility and comfort during game drives. These vehicles provide an immersive safari experience, allowing you to fully enjoy the sights and sounds of the African bush.

The best time to visit Amakhala Game Reserve largely depends on your weather preferences. 
- Summer (October-March): Expect warm to hot temperatures, often exceeding 30°C (86°F). This period offers lush landscapes and active wildlife.
- Winter (April-September): Enjoy sunny days with cooler temperatures. Early mornings and evenings can be very cold in the middle of winter, especially on the open air cruiser during early morning or late afternoon drive, so it’s advisable to bring warm jackets, gloves, and beanies.
For the most up-to-date weather forecast, we recommend checking the weather online closer to your arrival. You may use ‘Paterson’ when searching for the closest location.

Yes, it is a good idea to bring an extra jacket for game drives, even in spring, autumn and even summer. While the daytime temperatures can be pleasant, early mornings and evenings can be quite cold, sometimes reaching below 0 degrees in the middle of winter.

Check-in time is from 2pm, with afternoon game drive departing at 3pm in winter and 4pm in summer. Check-out time is by 11am on your day of departure.

All rooms come equipped with a woodburning fireplace, hairdryer, minibar, coffee & tea making facilities, air conditioning and Wi-Fi.

Please visit the Lion Roars Hotels & Lodges careers page for opportunities available at Bukela Game Lodge and across all of the groups’ properties or drop your CV to reservations@lionroars.com.