Positioned in a secluded corner of Amakhala Game Reserve in the malaria-free Eastern Cape of South Africa, lies 4 star rated HillsNek Safari Camp. This intimate family-run lodge, set on the banks of the Bushman’s River with a breath-taking vista of rolling African plains, offers an unprecedented safari experience where privacy and personalized attention is the hallmark of every stay.
The main lodge and four luxury safari tents are elevated on expansive wooden decks that command panoramic views of the open plains. Discreetly positioned to ensure privacy and tranquility, all are complete with an en-suite bathroom and romantic outside shower.
The lodge sets the stage for unforgettable African sunsets followed by evenings enjoying bush inspired cuisine and celebrating all that is ‘safari’. HillsNek Safari Camp is ideal for families, small groups or those seeking a truly romantic retreat and is available as an exclusive-use lodge on request.
Constructed of stone, thatch and canvas, the lodge’s open design allows for both indoor and outdoor dining and areas of relaxation. These harmonious spaces are centred around a stone swimming pool that connects one with the natural surroundings and the passing wildlife.
HillsNek Safari Camp consists of only four classic canvas safari tents set on expansive wrap around wooden decks with panoramic views. All tents are linked to the main lodge by raised wooden walkways and are complete with en-suite bathroom and romantic outdoor shower.
HillsNek Safari Camp offers a Family Tent set on expansive wrap around wooden decks with panoramic views. Surrounded by indigenous vegetation, the family tent is linked to the main lodge by raised wooden walkways and is complete with an en-suite bathroom and outdoor shower.
HillsNek offers guests a diverse and flexible safari experience with a team of highly qualified and experienced rangers, who impart a wonderous array of knowledge about the varied wildlife that call the reserve home. Each morning brings a new experience delivered by nature’s magic. Leaving HillsNek Safari Camp in an open game-viewing vehicle you will traverse over 18 000 acres weaving through 5 of the country’s 7 biomes.
The abundant wilderness of Amakhala Game Reserve preserves a complex and diverse ecosystem, providing habitat for over 60 different mammal species. The Bushman’s River winds its way through the reserve providing its life source of water to the myriad of wildlife and birdlife.
The dramatic and ever changing topography of Amakhala Game Reserve is host to an abundant tapestry of sights and sounds keeping one fixated on what one may see around the next turn of the game drive track.
The majestic lion, elephant, buffalo, leopard and giraffe, endangered cheetah and white rhino make up some of the high profile species component. Amakhala Game Reserve is also home to substantial herds of plains game species including zebra, black wildebeest, red hartebeest, oryx and eland to name but a few.
A recorded bird list of over 250 species on the reserve allows for great land based birding and further birding can be enjoyed whilst cruising along the Bushman’s River.
As you reflect on the days sightings under a setting sun, the nocturnal species begin their foraging, from the secretive aardvark to the elusive brown hyena. The rangers spot-light scanning the closing night might highlight these lesser seen yet very interesting mammals as you make your way back to the lodge.
