Kwandwe Fort House is one of five lodges within the Eastern Cape’s Kwandwe Private Game Reserve. With its three exclusive-use villas, Kwandwe taps into the popular family safari market, and rightly so – being malaria-free and only 160km from Port Elizabeth, the 30,000 hectare reserve is a very realistic option for a family wilderness trip, and ideal as an add-on to Cape Town and the Garden Route. With sweeping views of the Great Fish River Valley, Kwandwe Fort House is a hybrid between a (rather posh) modern home and a safari lodge – including private staff to keep everyone happy.




The free-flowing living areas have been designed with multi-generational families in mind. Spacious facilities include a guest pantry, fully-equipped kitchen, and indoor, outdoor, and covered dining areas. Relax on the terrace and watch wildlife wander by as the animals make their way to the nearby watering hole; take a dip in the heated rim-flow pool; and dine under the stars around the traditional boma – a family bonding experience if ever there was one.
The two master bedrooms and two twin bedrooms are all en-suite, and can accommodate a maximum of four adults and four children, or six adults without children. Your personal host, chef and butler will have every whim taken care of, knowing what you want even before you do. There is plenty of space to enjoy precious get-togethers, while also giving family members the opportunity to retreat to a tranquil corner and spend some quiet time alone.
As a guest of Kwandwe Fort House you will have access to a private ranger, tracker and 4x4 vehicle – allowing for a totally tailor-made programme. From traditional game drives with the whole family, to Big Game walking safaris, or special Save the Rhino excursions (for adults and older kids only), you are in charge of your itinerary. Budding wildlife photographers may want to book a private photographic safari or skills workshop – so much more impressive than the standard Instagram snaps.
Start with a recommended trip or create one from scratch
Kwandwe Fort House can be booked with Timbuktu as part of a tailor-made South Africa trip, rather than as a standalone room reservation. Start online, customising one of our recommended South Africa trips featuring Kwandwe Fort House or get advice and suggestions from one of our South Africa specialists who will design the trip around your dates, check availability and handle every booking for you.
Stays at Kwandwe Fort House start from around $1K, or US$1K, per person per night as part of a tailor-made trip. The exact price depends on your travel dates, room type and the shape of the rest of your itinerary. A Timbuktu travel specialist can give you an accurate quote for your dates.

A tip top safari destination with a cultural heart within reach of Cape Town and the Garden Route.