Kapama Private Game Reserve
A lion’s resplendent mane ruffled by the breeze, spotted hyenas harassing old wildebeest, giraffe and elephants loping past your private pool...we’ve discovered that there’s something wonderfully iconic about the safari experience in Kapama Private Game Reserve. Nestled between the sublime Drakensburg Mountains and the famous savannah of Kruger National Park, this small reserve is ideal if you’re seeking to combine pure luxury with all the famous safari sights.
A classic safari on the Kruger savannah
Kapama is 30 miles west of Kruger National Park and the landscape really responds to classic preconceptions of the African savannah. Flowing rivers bring a range of wildlife and animal encounters to the scorched landscape. Buffalo herds kick up dust as their hooves drumbeat across the plains. Cheetah and leopard excite with their alluring camouflage.
Of course, there’s the big five, plus all the other giants like giraffe and hippos. When we spent three days here we ticked off over 50 different mammal species along with hundreds of exotic birds. If you’re looking for a savannah-style safari that’s packed with all the famous animals, this cosy reserve will exceed all your expectations.
A Great First-Time Safari Experience
The main difference between Kruger National Park and Kapama is size - this is one of the smaller private reserves in the Greater Kruger. Game drives and walks last for two to three hours and we love how much you can see in this short amount of time. You’ll enjoy at least two activities per day and there’s a choice of four luxury lodges, which can be great value when compared to the more famous Sabi Sand nearby.
Visit Kapama any month of the year
As there are only four lodges in the reserve, you’ll find that the experience comes with a nice layer of intimacy. Also, because the reserve isn’t that big, you won’t need to drive far to see everything, even during the wet season months from December to February.
How about a spa treatment with impala herds playing in the river below? Or uncorking the champagne on the savannah, clinking glasses and admiring rhinos’ impressive horns? Don’t come here for a really intrepid adventure. Come to Kapama for a relaxed big-five experience and all the luxury extras.
