Amakhala Woodbury Lodge

Woodbury Lodge is an intimate, family-run Lodge on the malaria-free Amakhala Game Reserve. Opened in 1999 by the Gush family, the lodge offers a scenic base from which to experience exciting Big Five game viewing in the heart of the Eastern Cape bushveld. Nestled discreetly against a cliff in lush riverine bush, Woodbury Lodge offers spectacular views of the Bushman’s River valley.

It is an ideal place for families, small groups or those seeking a truly romantic retreat to relax and enjoy the bush together. Guests are accommodated in seven comfortably appointed stone–and–thatch sleeping lodges, all connected by stone walkways tucked away into indigenous trees alive with birdsong.

Each room has air conditioning and en–suite bathrooms with heated floors and a private deck with magnificent views over the plains. Within the portfolio are two family lodges which can sleep up to four guests, separated by a wall partition to provide privacy. The seclusion of the suites from the main lodge and communal area, along with the design of the bathrooms and individual outdoor relaxation areas, enable our visitors to enjoy the unique setting and breath-taking views at their leisure.

Many of the staff at Woodbury Lodge have grown up in the area and take pride in providing a friendly service and ensuring that your stay is a memorable one.

About Amakhala Game Reserve

The Amakhala Game Reserve is a unique conservation initiative that allows animals to be re-introduced to the area where they once roamed freely and so contributing to the conservation of our natural heritage. It is located about 50 minutes’ drive from Port Elizabeth and approximately 9-hours from Cape Town or 748km via the N2 (National Road).

Amakhala Game Reserve is named after the Xhosa word meaning Aloes, the prolific indigenous plant found in the uniquely diverse Eastern Cape province. Steeped in history and beauty, this 7000- hectare game reserve creates an ideal environment for an unforgettable safari and an intimate experience of the varied landscape, including breath-taking views of the Bushman's River.

The Amakhala Game Reserve offers a range of morning and evening safaris and other activities to enable visitors to experience the fascinating flora, fauna and birdlife of the Eastern Cape. This is your opportunity to return to nature.

Go on game drives in an open Land Rover in search of wildlife including lion, black and white rhino, elephant, cheetah, buffalo, giraffe, black wildebeest, zebra, tortoise and over 16 antelope species, or take a night drive with cheese and wine sundowners before searching for the elusive nocturnal animals such as lynx, porcupine and spring hare.

Relax on a slow river cruise down the Bushman’s River. The riverine bushveld offers excellent bird watching with a good chance of seeing the majestic African Fish Eagle and all three species of Kingfisher. Amongst the game drinking at the river’s edge, the rare Cape Clawless Otter might also be sighted.

Surrounding attractions include the Shamwari Game Reserve (5 min), Addo Elephant Park (30 min), Grahamstown (40 min), the Sunshine Coast with its stunning beaches (45 min), and historical Settler villages such as Sidbury and Salem.