Luxury Safari Lodge
South Africa

Kwandwe Ecca Lodge
Kwandwe Private Game Reserve

Highlights

  • Modern Luxury: Re-launched in 2023, Kwandwe Ecca Lodge boasts contemporary design with vibrant interiors and spacious suites. Each of the 6 suites features floor-to-ceiling glass doors, private decks with plunge pools, and modern amenities, ensuring a stylish and comfortable stay in the heart of the African bush.
  • Family-Friendly: The lodge caters to families with its dedicated children’s programme, spacious family suites, and a range of engaging activities for all ages. From educational safaris to interactive cooking classes, Ecca Lodge ensures an enriching experience for young adventurers.
  • Exclusive Safari Experiences: Spend time on private game drives, walking safaris, and big five sightings. Experienced guides offer personalised and intimate wildlife encounters, making each safari a unique adventure. Night drives and birdwatching are also available, adding to the diverse safari experiences.
  • Stunning Location: Located in the expansive Kwandwe Private Game Reserve, the lodge offers breathtaking views of the Great Fish River Valley and the surrounding landscape. The reserve’s diverse ecosystems support abundant wildlife, providing guests with spectacular game viewing opportunities right from the lodge.
  • Culinary Delights: The lodge provides gourmet dining experiences with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Guests can enjoy a variety of culinary delights, from traditional African cuisine to contemporary dishes, all paired with excellent South African wines, ensuring a memorable dining experience.
  • Sustainable Practices: Kwandwe Ecca Lodge is committed to conservation and community development. The lodge supports local initiatives and employs sustainable practices, such as solar power usage and wildlife conservation programmes, contributing to the preservation of the environment and the well-being of local communities.

Good to know

How to get there

There is a landing strip at Kwandwe with flights from most major destinations in South Africa, the flight time from Cape Town is around 1.5 hours. Alternatively, the reserve is a two-hour drive from Port Elizabeth.

Are children welcome?

Yes, children are very welcome at Kwandwe Ecca Lodge. The lodge is particularly family-friendly, offering spacious family suites and a range of activities designed specifically for children. The lodge provides a dedicated children’s programme, including activities such as treasure hunts, ‘Bugs & Bones’ walks, sand art, and various interactive learning experiences about the local wildlife and environment. Additionally, Kwandwe Ecca Lodge offers private safari vehicles for families, ensuring a flexible and tailored safari experience for guests of all ages​​.

Giving back

Kwandwe Ecca Lodge is deeply committed to sustainability, incorporating numerous eco-friendly practices and initiatives to protect the environment and support local communities. As a member of The Long Run, Kwandwe Ecca Lodge adheres to the 4Cs framework: Conservation, Community, Culture, and Commerce, which guide their sustainability efforts.

Key Sustainability Practices at Kwandwe Ecca Lodge:

  1. Conservation:
    • Wildlife and Habitat Protection: The reserve spans 22,000 hectares and is dedicated to the conservation of wildlife and their natural habitats. This includes the reintroduction of endangered species and ongoing efforts to maintain biodiversity.
    • Anti-Poaching Initiatives: Kwandwe has a dedicated anti-poaching unit to protect its wildlife, including the endangered black rhino.
  2. Community:
    • Local Employment and Education: Kwandwe prioritises hiring local staff and provides extensive training programs. The reserve also supports local schools and educational initiatives to improve community wellbeing.
    • Health and Social Programs: Various health and social initiatives are in place to support the surrounding communities, improving their quality of life and fostering sustainable development.
  3. Culture:
    • Cultural Preservation: The lodge encourages the preservation and celebration of local cultural heritage, integrating cultural education into guest experiences.
    • Cultural Exchange: Guests are offered opportunities to engage with local traditions and practices, promoting cultural understanding and respect.
  4. Commerce:
    • Sustainable Operations: Kwandwe implements sustainable business practices, including energy conservation measures such as solar power and water-saving initiatives.
    • Responsible Tourism: The lodge promotes responsible tourism practices that minimise environmental impact and enhance the guest experience without compromising the natural and cultural integrity of the area.

Why we love Kwandwe Ecca Lodge

A fabulous property for anyone looking for a relaxed and fun safari lodge, Ecca was relaunched in 2023 with a new look aimed at families and travellers who are young at heart, they’ve got the balance just right without detracting at all from the safari experience.

Melissa 130 CTA
Melissa Kirby

Specialises in

Africa and the Indian Ocean

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