Imagine the perfect safari with family
Surrounded by endless space in the Kwandwe Private Game Reserve, near Grahamstown in the Eastern Cape, Melton Manor is a private homestead that offers superb accommodation for the whole family.
It’s not only part of a collection of luxury safari lodges, but is also thoroughly family friendly. Importantly, the vast Kwandwe Private Game Reserve is malaria free, while also being one of the biggest privately-owned Big Five reserves in South Africa. It could just be the ultimate bush hideaway to reconnect with family and friends in the African bush.
At Melton Manor, it is all about doing things in your own time, which is exactly what a family holiday is all about. Along with a team of warmly welcoming staff, you also have your own dedicated safari vehicle, ranger and tracker for the duration of your stay. This means that not only is your safari accommodation thoroughly private, but so is your entire bush experience.
Adding to this, the Big Five safari lodge also has an inviting viewing deck near the pool area. This offers families and groups of friends the space to chill and have relaxed time together in complete privacy.
Kwandwe’s lodges offer Big Five accommodation surrounded by magnificent wilderness. As far as you can see, is all Kwandwe. Not surprising then, that the reserve is the largest privately owned Big Five game viewing area in South Africa. Here, there is simply everything to ensure the perfect safari, that is also child friendly and carefree.
Melton Manor, as one of three exclusive options for luxury safari stays on the reserve, has four suites and can sleep eight guests. Kwandwe has another two luxurious safari lodges: the Settler-style homestead of Uplands, and the contemporary Fort House, located on the plains. All the accommodation options on the wildlife reserve are Big Five safari lodges.
Family friendly activities
The exclusive-use houses at Kwandwe are ideal for eco-conscious, globetrotting families or small groups. Those who want to offset their carbon footprint can even plant a Spekboom tree on the reserve. Spekboom is one of the top five carbon-storing trees on the planet and is also iconically South African.
At Kwandwe, every aspirant little ranger is also encouraged to explore, discover and delight in the miracle of nature, learning alongside experienced teams of trackers and rangers. And for those who love the thrill of walking in the wild, interpretive bush walks or big game tracking safaris, all this is on offer here too – for family members big and small.
What we love!
- The luxurious lodge offers African safari accommodation that is fresh and contemporary – and also child-friendly.
- You can enjoy a Big Five experience with your children, that feels home from home. Little ones feel completely secure in this environment.
- Melton Manor (and all the exclusive-use houses) come with their own private vehicle, ranger and tracker team. This makes for an exceptional and special family experience.
- There is not only abundant wildlife on the reserve, but bird species are plentiful too. No need to go to the Kruger National Park!
What you need to know…
- Please note Melton Manor can only be booked for exclusive-use by you and your loved ones, and not on a room-by-room basis.
- Adults can book photographic safaris in open safari vehicles, which are highly recommended.
- Specialist rangers do a big game walk (for those over 16).
- Kwandwe is only just over an hour’s driving time from Port Elizabeth.
- You can fly-in to the airstrip close to the reserve gate, making Kwandwe easily accessible from Cape Town, Johannesburg – or anywhere in southern Africa.
- Kwandwe has several private villas including Uplands Homestead and Fort House, all of which are excellent options for multigenerational families. Ecca Lodge is also child friendly. All offer memorable safaris in South Africa.
- Consider stopping at the legendary Nanaga Farm Stall on route to or from Kwandwe. It’s a great lunch stop too.
If Melton Manor is booked on your selected dates, please browse our extended selection of enticing safari hideaways in the Eastern Cape.
Edited by Keri Harvey