Activities at Samara

This Big Five reserve comprises 11 former livestock farms which have been rehabilitated to form what is now the Samara Private Game Reserve. The unique and stunning landscape is a diverse and semi-arid paradise of mountains and grasslands and is home to thousands of animals, from the Big Five to cheetah, springbok, eland and even the more elusive animals such as aardvark and black-backed jackal.

Perhaps the best way to find this array of animals is on a game drive. Leaving early in the morning and again in the late afternoon when temperatures are cooler means animals are generally more active and easier to spot. For those wanting to slow down and get a real immersive experience in the bush, a walking safari will bring you closer to nature where an experienced guide will be on hand throughout where you could walk up to predators such as tracking cheetah and even the more elusive rhino.

If staying at the lodge for 2 nights or more, you also have the option of staying in Samara's star bed. Located along the Milk River, guests will get a real sense of the wilderness in a truly romantic setting. Arriving at sunset, sundowners and a picnic dinner will be waiting where you can enjoy the sky change colour as the sun sets and the stars come out after dark. Spend a night listening to the sounds of bush before being awakened by a beautiful African sunrise (extra cost).

As far as dining goes, Samara offers some incredible al fresco dining for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Guests staying at Samara for more than 3 nights will have a bush meal prepared for them (weather dependent), where a custom made meal in a stunning location somewhere in the reserve will be organised.