Samara Private Game Reserve

Samara Private Game Reserve is a passionate conservation undertaking, the leader in its area and a catalyst for change in the Great Karoo region of South Africa. Described as ‘heart-stoppingly beautiful’, the award-winning malaria-free reserve encompasses 70,000 acres of wilderness in the Great Karoo – South Africa’s magical heartland.

A 2.5-hour drive from Port Elizabeth, Samara is ideally situated at the end of the Garden Route and just 40 minutes from the historical town of Graaff-Reinet, rich in culture and heritage. A maximum of 26 guests stay in two five star luxury lodges: Karoo Lodge, a renovated farmstead overlooking an amphitheatre of mountains; and The Manor, a villa which can be booked exclusively, with private pool, chef, butler and ranger.

Samara forms part of a greater vision to create South Africa’s third largest protected area in a global biodiversity hotspot.

Our Commitment to Responsible Tourism

Samara is actively involved in conservation projects that incorporate research, practical management, education and community participation. When guests stay with us and get involved in the Samara journey, they contribute to a 'bigger picture' - creating South Africa's 3rd largest protected area in the magical Great Karoo.

Charities

Vuyani Safe Haven

Conservation also means acknowledging the people that have lived in this area for generations. The volunteer programme has developed a good relationship with the Vuyani Safe Haven (www.vuyanisafehaven.co.za) located in the nearby town of Graaff-Reinet. We occasionally arrange environmental education and fun days at Samara for the children of the Haven. We also sometimes spend a Saturday assisting with painting, maintenance and child entertainment at the Haven. In addition to the time we spend with the children, it is also possible to actually volunteer at Vuyani Safe Haven for a few days or a few weeks. You live with the wonderful manager, Riana, and assist at the day-to-day running of the home including school work, caring for the younger ones, weekend excursions and activity days. Click here to download the Vuyani Volunteer Information Pack. Interacting with these special children is a truly eye-opening and special experience, learning from people less fortunate than you.

Gallery

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