Bukela Game Lodge is 5-star safari lodge situated in the Amakhala Game Reserve, an 18 000-acre private game park located in the malaria free Eastern Cape. The reserve is a Big 5 Reserve and hosts other animals such as cheetah, giraffe, zebra, wildebeest, and plenty of antelope species.
The lodge is secluded on the reserve and tucked away into indigenous trees and bushes at the top of a hidden valley. There are 4 thatched suites and 10 luxury safari tents, each individually styled and connected by a wooden walkway. Each air-conditioned room has an indoor and outdoor shower as well as a private wooden deck. At the main lodge you will find a reception, dining and sitting area with a central fireplace, a media and library area with Internet, games and books and a large wooden pool deck overlooking a small dam frequented by buffalo.
Special offers: Book for 3 nights and only pay for 2 nights. This offer is only valid between 01 May - 31 August 2025. Terms and conditions apply.
Malaria-free Big 5 safari - a nice tag on to a trip to the Garden Route
Day and night game drives, bush walks, archery and fishing
On site Bukela Spa for some pampering
Sumptuous high teas, private candlelit dinners and fireside boma dinners under the stars
At a glance
4 Suites & 10 Luxury Safari Tents
12 Years +
Open All Year
Full Board
Safari
Our sustainable tourism rating
We handpick partners who share our commitment to protecting their environment, conserving wildlife and benefitting local communities.
Environment
Wildlife
Community
INSIDER TIP
"At night, listen out for the unmistakable sounds of elephant and buffalo making their stately progress through the unfenced camp."
Indulge your passions
ACTIVITIES
Adventures and activities to ensure lifetime memories are made. From unforgettable thrills to indulgent relaxation, choose those that appeal most.
Big 5 Safari
Birdwatching
Guided Walking Safari
Night Drive
Picture yourself here
Gallery
Take a journey through Amakhala Bukela Game Lodge to get a flavour of its unique style and character, designed to enchant every guest.
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Sample itineraries
TRIPS TO INSPIRE
From exhilarating wildlife encounters to out-of-this-world natural wonders, echoes of ancient empires, and rose-gold beaches, every bespoke Mahlatini journey is designed to immerse you in the extraordinary. Whether it’s a bucket list trip, marking a milestone, or a soul-stirring retreat, let this handpicked selection inspire your next escape.
At Mahlatini, we believe in making your journey effortless. Browse our website for inspiration or get in touch with us directly. Whether you already have a dream destination in mind or need some inspiration, our travel experts are here to create your custom itinerary. Serial safari-goer, Indophile or first-time explorer, your adventure starts with a conversation.
Connect
Call us or enquire online. Share your wish list and we’ll start planning your journey.
Customise
Your dedicated travel expert will be in touch within 24 hours to start designing your bespoke itinerary.
Confirm
We won’t stop refining your plans until we get the perfect trip at the best price.
Travel
Receive your Mahlatini travel documents, pack your bags and set off on your trip of a lifetime!
We routinely go the extra mile to ensure that you're in good hands at every stage of your journey.
Niamh Lamond, 9th March 2023
Holiday to Amakhala Bukela Game Lodge
Visiting Amakhala Bukela was a unique insight, not just into the life of animals in their natural habitat (although managed for good conservation reasons), but also into how a private reserve has been established and how it operates. A massive conservation project with a dedicated ranger and conser…
The overall experience of Bukela was wonderful. We enjoyed Deanne and the game drives. Food was excellent throughout the trip and the rest of the staff was very accommodating. There were a few minor maintenance issues that needed to be addressed with our room, but otherwise the room was excellent.
Fantastic acommodation with lovely food and wine. Service was really good with the staff even going the extra mile to prepare a special last night for us as it was our last night in SA and last night of honeymooning - they had prepared a dinner for two in front of the fire in our private lodge, wit…
This was amazing! I don't think I've ever ate so much in my life, but everything is cooked or baked freshly so it's hard to say no. We loved the atmosphere, it was just so peaceful and we absolutely loved the suites. Ours looked over a watering hole. I would definitely recommend to friends, it w…
+1 347-708-1755
4 Suites & 10 Luxury Safari Tents
12 Years +
Open All Year
Full Board
Safari
Big 5 Safari
Birdwatching
Guided Walking Safari
Night Drive
