Booking & Policies
What is included in the rate?
Your rate includes luxury accommodation, all meals, two game drives per day and selected beverages. It does not include Conservation Levies.
What times are check-in and check-out?
Check-in is at 1:00 pm, and check-out is at 11:00 am.
What is your cancellation policy?
Please refer to our Terms and Conditions for full details. In general:
- 60 days prior to arrival: 10% cancellation fee
- 45 days prior to arrival: 50% cancellation fee
- 30 days prior to arrival: 75% cancellation fee
- 48 hours prior to arrival or no-show: 100% of the booking
Cancellations must be communicated in writing to be valid.
Do you offer transfers?
Yes. Airport and private transfers can be arranged at an additional cost.
How long should we stay to get the full experience?
Most guests stay 2–3 nights, allowing 4–6 game drives and relaxation at the lodge.
Are children allowed at Bush Lodge?
Bush Lodge is not suitable for children under 12 years. Families with younger children can stay at alternative lodges on Amakhala.
Planning & Preparation
What should we pack?
Bush Lodge is in a malaria-free area, so you only need to bring any personal prescription medications.
We recommend packing:
Clothing:
- Light cotton trousers, shorts, and shirts (long & short-sleeved)
- Warm jacket, woolen hat, beanie, scarf, and gloves for winter
- Comfortable walking shoes and sandals
- Fleece, rain jacket, and/or windbreaker
- Optional: something comfortable and elegant for lodge dinners
- Accessories: sun hat, sunglasses, bathing suit/swimwear
- Toiletries & Essentials: sunscreen, insect repellent, personal toiletries and medications.
How do I get to Bush Lodge?
We are located in the Eastern Cape, just off the N2 between Port Elizabeth (Gqeberha) and Grahamstown (Makhanda), approximately 60 minutes from Port Elizabeth Airport.
What is the climate like?
South Africa enjoys a warm climate year-round. Winter temperatures range from 7°C to 22°C; summer temperatures are 16°C to 36°C, ideal for safari activities.
Do you cater for dietary requirements?
Yes, we cater for vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, lactose-free, and other dietary needs with prior notice.
Accommodation & Lodge Facilities
Is the lodge fenced?
Yes — Bush Lodge is fenced for guest safety, but you may still see friendly warthogs and kudu wandering around the lodge area.
Do the tents have air-conditioning and heating?
Yes. All tents have air-conditioning, heating, and electric blankets in winter.
Do you have a swimming pool?
Each tent has its own private plunge pool, and there is also a central pool at the main lodge.
Are massages or spa treatments available?
Yes — we have a spa at the lodge. Treatments are arranged and booked at the lodge upon your arrival, rather than in advance.
Is there Wi-Fi at the lodge?
Yes, complimentary Wi-Fi is available in rooms and main lodge areas, although signal may vary due to the remote location.
Is there a medical facility nearby?
The nearest medical facilities are in Gqeberha (Port Elizabeth), approximately 60–70 minutes away.
Safari & Wildlife Experience
What wildlife can we expect to see?
Amakhala is home to the Big 5—lion, leopard (elusive), elephant, buffalo, rhino—as well as cheetah, giraffe, zebra, and many plains game species.
Are game drives included?
Yes, guests enjoy two guided game drives daily—a morning and an afternoon/sunset drive.
Do you have binoculars available?
Yes, your ranger carries one shared pair of binoculars for guests to use on game drives. We also sell binoculars in our curio shop. If you already have your own, we recommend bringing them.
Do you allow drones at Bush Lodge?
No — drones are not allowed on the lodge or anywhere within Amakhala Game Reserve to protect wildlife and ensure guest safety.
Is the lodge malaria-free?
Yes — Amakhala Game Reserve is in a malaria-free region.
Explore the Best of South Africa
Start your South African trip by flying into Cape Town, where you can hire a car and enjoy stunning views from Table Mountain and the vibrant V&A Waterfront. Then head to the Cape Winelands, visiting Stellenbosch and Franschhoek to taste excellent wines, savor delicious meals, and take in the beautiful vineyard scenery.
Continue along the Garden Route, enjoying the breathtaking coastline, lush forests, and charming towns such as Plettenberg Bay and Knysna. End your journey on a high note at Bush Lodge on Amakhala Game Reserve, where you can experience thrilling Big 5 safaris, relax in comfortable accommodations, and watch peaceful bush sunsets.
Finally, travel to Port Elizabeth to catch your flight home, taking with you unforgettable memories of South Africa’s incredible landscapes, wildlife, and culture.
