Location: South Africa » Eastern Cape » Garden Route » AlexandriaBukela Game LodgePrivate Game reserve in the eastern capeDescriptionHaving both explored most of the South African reserves extensively, they chose “this place of great admiration” in order to realize their dream, not only for its magnificence but also because it would offer their guests an opportunity of discovering the Eastern Cape which is of significant cultural and historical importance. In addition, the proximity of the coast to Bukela Lodge offers guests the opportunity of enjoying the bush and discovering the pristine beaches of the Eastern Cape.
In creating the Lodge, Elsa Truter has drawn on Africa itself for her inspiration in designing and decorating the lodge where ever possible. This theme extends as well to the cuisine offered which is both traditional and contemporary African cuisine.. The lodge therefore offers the guest a true African experience encompassing all of ones senses, and not tempered by Western or European influences except where comfort and service are concerned. In this regard, guests can expect every service they would expect of an exclusive 5 star international establishment. Resting in the rolling Eastern Cape hills 80km outside Port Elizabeth, Bukela Lodge offers a gentle, tranquil escape from the world. The abundant Amakhala wildlife includes lion, cheetah, black and white rhino, elephant, giraffe, zebra and buffalo, ranging over a breathtaking oxbow river plain in the heart of the 7000 hectare, malaria-free conservancy. Our intimate four-suite lodge offers an exclusive game viewing experience which, combined with our luxurious, secluded accommodation, and variety of dining options, creates a remarkable, private retreat in which to regenerate body and mind.
ACCOMMODATION
Bukela Lodge is luxurious and of an International standard. The main lodge comprises of a reception, dining and sitting area with a central fireplace which is always welcome in winter, a media and library area with Internet, television, dvd player, games and books and a large wooden pool deck overlooking a small dam frequented by buffalo. A separate area known as a “boma” adjoins the main lodge where bush braais and special festivities may be enjoyed.
The four suites Uthando Suite | Ingwe Suite | Inyathi Suite | Umkhombe Suite are each individually styled in African simplicity while never compromising on luxury, sleeps 2 guests and are privately located separate to the main lodge. Each suite is well appointed for a guests’ optimal comfort with every amenity including large, en suite bathrooms each with a spa bath overlooking the African bush, an indoor and outdoor shower for the more adventurous, a central fireplace for romantic evenings, a private wooden deck, bar fridge and hot drink amenities. Beds are King size or 2 singles depending on guest requirement. All suites are air conditioned while bar fridges and automatic kettles are an added convenience. All our suites are luxurious but the “honeymoon suite” with a hug e four poster mahogany bed can be reserved for that special occasion.
GAME
White Rhino, Cape Buffalo, Elephant, Lion, Cheetah, Leopard, Serval, Giraffe, Black Wildebeest, Zebra and more than 12 species of Antelope. Smaller game include Bat Eared Fox, Vervet Monkey, Bush Pig, Warthog, Aardvark, Aardwolf, Spring Hair, Porcupine and Tortoise. Approximately 250 bird species may be viewed in the area including the rare African Finfoot and include many raptors such as the Fish Eagle, Crowned Eagle and Jackal buzzard. A variety of snake and insect species may also be discovered.
FLORA AND FAUNA
It is typically African valley bushveld punctuated by colorful wild flowers specific to the area. The word “Amakhala” is a Xhosa name given to the regal Aloes which proliferate here. With their striking orange flowers, this well known medicinal plant grows in abundance in the reserve. Flat savannahs and riverine forests offer a variety of habitat for game and the area has 20 small dams and 17 kilometers of the Bushmans river winding through it.
HISTORY
From a historical perspective, Bukela Lodge offers their guests an ideal platform from which to explore and discover not only the many 1820 English and Dutch settlements in the surrounding area, but also stone age “workshops’ dating back 300 000 years. The first Stegosaur skeleton (Paranthodon Africanus) to be documented in South Africa was discovered in the Bushmans river valley less than one kilometer down river from the reserve.
Bukela Lodge is situated in an area which was considered to have the highest concentration of game in South Africa before the hunting parties of the 1800’s changed this. Continued conservation endeavors and the shared vision of ‘turning back the clock’ has ensured that future generations will also be able to appreciate the splendor of the area. Eco- tourism has in part ensured this, but of equal importance is the contribution guests make when visiting the area towards the development of skills in previously disadvantaged indigenous communities. This has empowered communities to achieve economic independence, a sense of self worth and has further ensured a symbiotic relationship between man and nature.
Amenities Bukela Lodge offers 5-star luxury of an International standard. The main lodge comprises of a reception, dining and sitting area with a central fireplace which is always the centre of attraction in winter. Also available are a media and library area with Internet, television, dvd player, games and books and a large wooden pool deck overlooking a small dam frequented by buffalo. A separate area known as a “boma” adjoins the main lodge where bush braais and special festivities are offered for our guests enjoyment. Church service - We can advise times and locations of religious services in the area. A small chapel is available in the Amakhala Reserve for weddings and other religious ceremonies. This should be booked in advance. Computer/Email - A computer can be made available for guest use should you require it. Conference facilities are available in the Amakhala Reserve. Please contact us for more information. Clothing - Dress code and clothing is informal. It is advisable to wear loose fitting and light garments in summer, layering clothing in winter. Sensible shoes are important in the rough terrain. A warm wind breaker jacket or jersey for game drives even in summer is a necessity. Neutral colored garments are advisable in the bush. Sun hats, sunglasses and swimming costume are required in summer. Fleeced sweatshirts, golf shirts, robes and caps are available for purchase from the lodge should guests require any of these items. Equipment - A good pair of binoculars is a recommendation especially for bird watching. Good photographs can be taken on game drives when the vehicle is stationary, but rarely when in transit as terrain is rough. Guests should bear this in mind when purchasing suitable camera equipment. The recommended film is 100-200 A.S.A. and a zoom lens is not always a necessity but recommended. Food - Please inform management at Bukela of any specific dietary preferences you may have before arrival. Coffee, tea, fresh juice and pastries are served before each game drive in addition to any snacks provided on the drive itself. Beverages and snacks over and above that mentioned can be requested throughout a guests stay, accounts for which may be settled on departure. Housekeeping - Suites are cleaned unobtrusively thrice daily while guests enjoy a game drive or meal. At no other time will guests be disturbed unless they request assistance. Our staff is always available to assist guests wherever necessary. Incoming calls may be received on the lodge cellular phone. Information services - Guests will find directories of tourist information in each suite. Should guests require assistance with flights, transfers or accommodation reservations, or require that Bukela assist with reputable tour operators, please let us know. Laundry - Guests personal items can be washed and ironed at a nominal fee. Laundry bags are provided in suite cupboards. Dry cleaning is unfortunately not offered. First aid and Medical - A well stocked supply of over the counter medication is available to guests should they experience any physical discomfort during their stay at Bukela. Medical practitioners are also available 20 minutes drive away. Telephone - There are telephones installed in each guest suite. Should guests require a cellphone, the lodge can make one available to them at standard cost. South African network providers MTN and Vodacom coverage is reasonable in most areas of the reserve. Water -The water is derived from a borehole and not for human consumption. Complementary bottled water is provided. Wines - Bukela Lodge offers a versatile and well appointed selection of South African and International wines, sparkling wines and French champagne to suit your palate. Weather - The region is temperate with summer conditions (October – March) reaching temperatures of 36C. Winter (April-September) brings many sunny days but evenings can be chilly. Rain falls mainly in the summer months and umbrellas are available in the main lodge for your use when traversing to your suite in these conditions. The African climate can change dramatically whatever the season. Rangers will check weather reports before embarking on a game drive, but guests should please ensure that they are suitably attired in “layered” clothing for hot or cold conditions.   
AttractionsTHE ADVENTURE
Guests are greeted on arrival with refreshing hand towels and served drinks on the pool deck overlooking a dam frequented regularly by a group of buffalo. While baggage is delivered to their room and their vehicles valeted, guests are advised of their itinerary as follows:
Morning Game Drive
Summer/Spring Months (October - March)
Morning Game Drives commence at 6:30am
Autumn/Winter Months (April - September)
Morning Game Drives commence at 7am.
Guests are served coffee, tea and freshly baked muffins in the main lodge half an hour before a game drive commences. The duration of a game drive is usually 3-4 hours long depending on the amount of time spent stationary while viewing game. Game rangers will halt whenever requested and share their expertise with guests. Game rangers will also stop and allow guests to alight from the vehicle for a steaming cup of coffee which is traditionally enjoyed with rusks. (a south African biscuit.)
Brunch
On returning from the morning game drive, guests have 30 minutes at their disposal to freshen up before brunch is served. Breakfast/brunch is usually buffet style with a choice of fresh fruit, yoghurt or cereal as well as sweet pastries, toast and jams. Bukela’s talented chef will cook eggs to preference which are served with bacon or sausage from the buffet.
After brunch guests relax at the refreshing pool or enjoy a nap after the excitement of the game drive, depending on their preference. We ensure that guests have enough time to relax and we look forward to accommodating every need. Books of an African theme, cards, boardgames such as chess as well as television and internet facilities are available in the main lodge for guest convenience. A tranquil cruise down the winding Bushman’s river can be organized on request. Enjoy a sundowner with snacks where you may catch a glimpse of a timid bush buck in the riverine forest. The river cruise affords the best opportunity of viewing the rare African Finfoot as well as the less rare but more majestic Fish Eagle.
Afternoon/Evening Game Drives
Summer/Spring Months (October - March)
Afternoon Game Drives commence at 4:30pm
Autumn/Winter Months (April - September)
Afternoon Game Drives commence at 3:30pm
Light snacks in the form of delectable sweet and savoury pastries are provided half an hour before the game drive is to commence at the main lodge. Bottled water, beverages and light snacks such as biltong are provided en route and the vehicle will stop in order for guests to alight and enjoy a sundowner at sunset. This is the highlight of an evening game drive, as an African sunset is something one feels privileged to witness.
Dinner
Dinner may consist of either an informal bush braai/barbeque in the “boma” consisting of a selection of salads and/or hot vegetables, barbequed meat (chicken, beef, ostrich, venison ,or even fish) or a selection of dishes may be offered to suit your palette. Bush breakfasts, picnics or dinners are enjoyed to the sound of rhythmic African drums or guests may prefer the tranquility of an enjoying an excellent meal under the stars in the “boma” or “lapa”. After enjoying dinner guests are invited to socialize until the small hours of the morning or to retire to the comfort and luxury of their suite. Whatever the preference, they will awaken to the chorus of an African dawn and ready for another day of adventure!
*Please note
Game drives are conducted in specially modified, open air four wheel drive land rovers designed to accommodate 8 guests. Terrain is rough at times but never seriously uncomfortable. Rangers will advise you of “bush etiquette” Viewing on night drives are assisted by spotlight.
Meal times and location are also flexible. Should guests wish to enjoy a meal in privacy on their suite deck then this can be arranged. Please inform us in advance as we would be pleased to accommodate you.
Bushwalks and bird watching can be organized in place of a game drive . Guests are escorted by a game ranger who is qualified to protect them and who will point out many species of game rarely seen on drives. Activities The Amakhala Reserve is surrounded by areas of historical and cultural interest. We would be pleased to assist or to recommend tour operators for day excursions in the area should guests require this. Grahamstown - “City of Saints” This 1820 Settler city is only 20 minutes drive from Bukela Game Lodge. The city is situated at the center of “Frontier Country” and it takes pride in its cultural and educational heritage. Beautifully restored and preserved historical buildings line the streets and it is here that you will find the 1820 Settlers Monument erected to commemorate contributions made by the British settlers who settled in the area. The Albany Museum is 150 years old and well worth a visit should you enjoy History and Natural Science. The world renowned Grahamstown Rhodes University with its picturesque campus hosts the National Arts Festival in July of every year which attracts visitors from far and wide. Guests will find cinemas, restaurants, craft shops and shopping centres in this picturesque city. Alexandria Alexandria is 36 kms away and as such is the closest town to Bukela Game lodge and convenient should guests need to purchase anything the lodge cannot provide during their stay. Guests will find a pharmacy, fuel station and small convenience store located here. Bathurst, Port Alfred and Kenton - on - Sea The route from Bukela Lodge to Port Alfred via Grahamstown is a 120 kilometre scenic meander which will take the visitor through the quaint settler village of Bathurst. The historic village houses the area's oldest pub as well as a variety of craft shops. The route will take visitors through the pineapple farming district to the scenic coastal town of Port Alfred. Beautiful beaches make Port Alfred a popular holiday destination both nationally and internationally. Situated on the Kowie river mouth and with a navigable waterway, Port Alfred is popular amongst boating enthusiasts and canoes and boats may be hired here. Alternatively, a game of golf may be enjoyed at the Royal Port Alfred Club and there are also two world-renowned health hydros should visitors require some pampering. Spend the day fishing or antique hunting, or feast on fresh oysters at one of the restaurants on the bay. 25 km from Port Alfred you will find the seaside village of Kenton-on- Sea which is situated between 2 tidal rivers namely the Kariega and Bushman rivers. Whales are spotted regularly here from April to December. Tours to adjacent Xhosa townships which include a traditional meal in a township home can be organized in advance. Port Elizabeth is 80kms/40 minutes west of Bukela Lodge Port Elizabeth overlooks Algoa Bay and is known as the “Friendly City”. The city dates back to the arrival by sea of 4000 British settlers in 1820 and the province is also famous for having been the birth place of Nelson Mandela, humanitarian and former president of South Africa. There are many activities on offer in Port Elizabeth including whale watching excursions, historical attractions, craft markets, boutiques and shopping malls, gambling, theatre and live cabaret, pubs, restaurants and late night music spots. Port Elizabeth Oceanarium, Bayworld, is situated on the beach front and offers live dolphin and seal displays, a snake park and a natural and cultural museum. The rugged coastlines of St Francis, Algoa Bay and Port Alfred hide reefs of incomparable beauty for the diving enthusiast. Shipwrecks, fish and coral may be enjoyed and shark diving excursions may be arranged for the more adventurous. The internationally renowned Humewood, Royal Port Alfred and Fish River Sun golf courses are all within an hours drive from Bukela Lodge. Please enquire as to availability of a game at a club well in advance. Palaeontology Excursions The Eastern Cape is also rich in Archaeology and Palaeontology. During the last century the first Stegosaur Skeleton was documented in South Africa, less than a kilometre from the Amakhala Game Reserve. The Krantz formations along the Bushmans River in the reserve represent a cross section of time extending back 800 million years and there are various interesting fossils, which lie exposed on and around the reserve.   
Accolades | :Tourism Council of SA Star Grading |  | :Portfolio benchmarked: |  | :Rated by tripadvisor.com |
TGCSA Star Grading
DirectionsResting in the rolling Eastern Cape hills 80km outside Port Elizabeth, Bukela Lodge offers a gentle, tranquil escape from the world.
The abundant Amakhala wildlife includes lion, cheetah, black and white rhino, elephant, giraffe, zebra and buffalo, ranging over a breathtaking oxbow river plain in the heart of the 7000 hectare, malaria-free conservancy.
Our intimate four-suite lodge offers an exclusive game viewing experience which, combined with our luxurious, secluded accommodation, and variety of dining options, creates a remarkable, private retreat in which to regenerate body and mind.
  
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Elza Truter
+27 (0)41 503 8500
+27 (0)41 502 9429
+27 (0)73 880 2227