The Offbeat Goat Collection

Samara Karoo Lodge

Samara Private Game Reserve, South Africa

South Africa / Karoo / Samara Karoo Lodge

A safari-chic homestead flaunting wide-open vistas and colonial charm in the heart of the Samara private game reserve

Flanked by the rugged Sneeuberg mountains in a hauntingly beautiful corner of the Eastern Cape sits the Karoo Lodge, a charming farmhouse with a delightful conservation tale to tell. A pioneer in rewilding and land rehabilitation, the Karoo Lodge prides itself on its self-sustaining ecosystem brimming with wildlife and biodiversity in this little slice of the Great Karoo.

But nature is not its only touchpoint. A homage to the past colonial days, this lovingly restored Karoo Lodge celebrates time-worn luxury — a sophisticated pairing of design and old-world charm.

“Samara actively engages in rehabilitating degraded landscapes, managing water catchments, and regenerating carbon sinks, all the while functioning as a ‘living laboratory’ for researchers from around the world. Accompanying this conservation commitment is a strong sense of social responsibility. Having launched an ecotourism venture in 2005, Samara now provides employment for 70 people, 76% of whom are from the local community, and organises an annual sports tournament for 700 youth.”

—Samara Karoo Lodge

See prices

the look.

The lovingly renovated Karoo-style farmhouse and its rustic-chic cottages exude a colonial home-away-from-home vibe. Think cozy fireside nooks with comfy chairs and tables stacked with books and family heirlooms; rooms adorned with cowhide rugs, African artifacts, and old-world charm — a delightful fusion of impeccable aesthetics, comfort, and the elegance of days gone by.

the experience.

Out-of-Africa vibe

Delight in sunrise breakfasts on the verandah overlooking the tranquil gardens and mountains beyond. Splurge on candlelit dinners on the verandah, on the lawn, or by the boma.

star beds

Delight sleeping under the Milky way in the property’s star bed (situated in a secluded spot near the homestead).

“slow” safari experiences

Enjoy trekking with Karoo’s knowledgeable rangers, sharing conservation practices, and providing a unique “slower” type of safari in the remote plains of Camdeboo. Don’t miss tracking cheetahs on foot with expert guides.

Conservation-focused

The Samara Game Reserve and Karoo Lodge exist with a clear purpose: conservation. The management is wholeheartedly dedicated to rewilding the expansive Great Karoo, overseeing the land and biodiversity with the utmost commitment to top-tier conservation standards. This involves strategic measures such as land acquisition, rewilding initiatives, and forming conservation partnerships. Additionally, the Karoo plays a vital role in cheetah conservation, collaborating with select NGOs to relocate these magnificent creatures to various parts of Africa, contributing to the diversification of endangered species.

Community-driven

Samara is also committed to supporting local communities through community-based programs, nature workshops, and environmental awareness projects.

the impact.

at a glance.

$$$

good to know

Samara Karoo Lodge offers numerous sleeping arrangements. The Lodge has nine double rooms. There are three standalone cottages near the main homestead and four game-lodge suites inside the homestead. The two suites (Sibella Suites) near the watering hole are perfect for families. Don't expect the Big 5 in the Karoo, but the scenery is spectacular, and there is plenty of game to admire! Children < 8 years are not allowed on game drives.