Not every safari needs a week in the bush. If you live in Gqeberha, are visiting Nelson Mandela Bay for work or are driving the Garden Route, you can see the Big 5 in a single morning or afternoon at Kwantu Private Game Reserve – about an hour’s drive away.
Here is everything you need to know to plan a Big 5 day visit.
How far is Kwantu from Gqeberha?
Kwantu is roughly 95 km from Chief Dawid Stuurman International Airport and the centre of Gqeberha – about an hour’s drive. Take the N2 towards Makhanda (Grahamstown), turn off at the Sidbury sign and follow the Kwantu signs for the last stretch. The reserve is at 1 Daniel Street, Sidbury.
Morning or afternoon?
Day visits run every day, with two options:
Morning visit (starts 09:00)
- Welcome snacks and drinks on arrival
- A 2–3 hour game drive into Big 5 territory in an open Land Rover
- Lunch at Kwantu
Afternoon visit (starts 13:00)
- Lunch and drinks on arrival
- A 2–3 hour afternoon game drive into Big 5 territory
- Snacks and drinks after the drive
Morning drives are cooler in summer and the light is lovely for photographs; afternoon drives suit late risers and travellers coming from further away.
What will we see?
Kwantu is home to lion, elephant, rhino, buffalo and leopard, along with giraffe, zebra, wildebeest, kudu and many other antelope. More than 250 bird species have been recorded in the area. Sightings are never guaranteed in a wild reserve, but our experienced rangers know where the animals like to be at different times of day and year.
Why a day visit at Kwantu?
- Malaria-free: no medication needed – ideal for children and older family members.
- Fully halaal and alcohol-free: every meal is halaal, so the whole family can eat together with peace of mind.
- Close to the city: back in Gqeberha by late afternoon.
- Family-friendly: open vehicles, friendly rangers and plenty of space for children.
What to bring
- A hat, sunscreen and sunglasses
- A warm layer – open vehicles can be chilly in the early morning, even in summer
- Binoculars and a camera with a charged battery
- Comfortable, neutral-coloured clothing
- Water for the drive there and back
Combine it with your trip
A Kwantu day visit fits easily into a Garden Route or Eastern Cape itinerary – before or after a stay in Gqeberha, or on the way to Makhanda. Want more time in the bush? Stay overnight and add a sunset or early-morning drive: see our accommodation options.
Book your day visit
Day visits can be booked online on our Day Visits page. For groups, school visits or special requests, call +27 42 203 1400 / +27 87 729 8423 or email reservations@kwantu.co.za.