Gondwana Game Reserve in South Africa
The malaria-free Gondwana Game Reserve is South Africa’s hottest destination for independent self-drive family safaris. Named “Leading Nature experience in South Africa” at the World Travel Awards, parents and children will be rewarded with a wildlife bonanza for an unforgettable holiday, staying in stylish yet affordable family-friendly bush villas.
Situated only 30 minutes from the charming coastal town of Mossel Bay, an easy four-hour drive from Cape Town on the scenic Garden Route, the private game reserve offers good infrastructure and easy access, making it an ideal choice for those looking for family freedom. And with the warm waters and white-sand beaches of the Indian Ocean less than half an hour away, Gondwana can be complemented with a few days on the beach or with other fun day trips in the area.
Set on 11,000 hectares (27 000 acres) of spectacular wilderness, Gondwana is famed for its colourful indigenous fynbos vegetation and abundant wildlife, and the excellent chances of seeing the Big Five (elephant, buffalo, lion, rhino and leopard). The Big Five animals roam free within the reserve, and at times elephants and other wildlife can even be seen drinking from the lodge’s swimming pool.
Children are often not allowed at many exclusive safari reserves – but not at Gondwana. Here, children are treated like VIPs. Children from seven years old may join regular morning and evening game drives. Families with younger children can book a dedicated safari vehicle, giving them the chance to customize game drives to suit their families sleep schedule. That way the giraffes, hippo, zebras, cheetah and other A-listers will all weave their magic and leave lasting family memories.
Families are free to mix up their itinerary and as children get down and dirty with nature there will be no time for temper tantrums. Children love the game rangers who provide plenty of outlets for all that pent-up youthful energy. Energetic activitiesto explore the bush include guided bush and fynbos nature walks, bush picnics, mountain biking, and fishing. For the time between game drives and outdoor activities, Kwena Lodge has an inviting swimming pool and ice cream on tap as well as fun cooking activities for children.
Gondwana’s special Junior Ranger programme is a fun way to show little ones the African bush and to help them gain a greater understanding of conservation. Inclusive for children aged four to 12, this hands-on programme offers educational game drives, interactive activities, junior ranger packs and completion badges.Children receive a Ranger’s backpack and safari booklet to fill in throughout their stay. During game drives and other activities with their ranger, kids are taught how to identify mammals, birds, fynbos species, and even stars. At the end, they’ll be awarded a Level 1 Gondwana Junior Ranger Patch and completion certificate.
For their comfort and convenience families stay at Private Bush Villas, stylish safari homes with thatched roofs and Cape Country elements. At around 240 square metres, the bush villas are particularly spacious, which makes them ideal for families with younger children. Surrounded by lush fynbos and awe-inspiring mountain views, the two-, three- and four-bedroom villas offer plenty of privacy, huge open-plan interiors, a well-equipped kitchen and a comfortable lounge and dining area with TVs and DVD players to assist with the little ones. Guests especially love the large outdoor decks for family barbeques and game viewing.
For breakfast, lunch and high tea, families dine at nearby Kwena Lodge. In the evenings they can opt for self-catering or to have dinner brought to their villa. Parents looking to spend a romantic evening on their own can book a babysitter and enjoy a candle-lit dinner at Gondwana’s stylish restaurant or in the outdoor boma under the stars.
For more information, visit gondwanagr.co.za.
