Samara’s Karoo Lodge near Graaff-Reinet has completed its refurbishments.
The Sibella Suites – named after the reserve’s cheetah – has been the focus of the renovations, with the rooms being made larger, furniture upgraded, a new roof installed, and the deck revamped.
The accommodation is ideal for families travelling with children or couples holidaying together – with two inter-leading suites that can sleep four guests – with added privacy afforded by the location, which is a five-minute walk from the main homestead. It is also ideal for newlyweds which, along with a Star Bed experience, is a romantic escape.
The rooms have en-suite bathrooms with a shower and lead on to a shared deck overlooking a waterhole teeming with birdlife. Guests may also spot larger species like rhino, elephant and eland coming to the waterhole.
Guests staying in the suites may choose to walk the Sibella Trail, which meanders the grounds of the lodge, ending at a bench overlooking the ‘koppie’ (small hill).
Other changes to the lodge include renovations to the wraparound veranda typical of a Karoo farmhouse, along with an upgrade to the pool area, which received new pool furniture and a new dry-stone wall.
One of the rooms is now wheelchair-friendly, while all other suites have undergone a soft refurb to update the furnishings.
Samara Private Game Reserve also offers accommodation at The Manor House, which can be booked for exclusive use by a group, or by private individuals wishing to stay at The Manor House.
The malaria-free reserve offers a Big-Five safari experience, with game drives and guided walks, activities that include wilderness picnics, sleep-outs under the stars and conservation projects. A children’s programme is also available.
