Discover the ancient healing traditions of the Great Karoo.

Set within 67,000 acres of restored wilderness in the Eastern Cape, Samara Karoo Reserve invites travellers to experience transformative adventures that go far beyond the traditional game drive.

To celebrate the 2026 safari season, guests can take advantage of a Stay 3, Pay 2 offer across all Samara lodges for travel until 30 September 2026, giving guests additional time to experience the reserve’s signature adventures.

For couples seeking one of Africa’s most unforgettable overnight experiences, Samara’s Star Bed offers complete seclusion beneath an endless canopy of stars.

Set on a raised platform overlooking the tranquil Milk River, guests arrive at sunset for drinks and a picnic dinner before watching wildlife gather below as darkness falls. Wrapped in luxurious Karoo mohair blankets beneath the Milky Way, this is romance in its purest form—immersed in silence, spectacular scenery and one of the clearest night skies in the Southern Hemisphere.

Adventure takes centre stage with Samara’s Fly Camping experience, a modern interpretation of Africa’s original safaris.

Accompanied by expert rangers and trackers, guests walk through Big Five territory before reaching a remote wilderness camp where sundowners, a traditional South African braai and fireside storytelling await. Falling asleep to the distant roar of lions and waking to birdsong makes this an exhilarating immersion into the African bush.

Samara’s acclaimed Cheetah Trail offers a rare opportunity to slow down and reconnect with nature. This four-day slackpacking adventure combines guided wilderness walks with intimate encounters tracking one of Africa’s most endangered predators on foot.

Staying between Samara’s off-grid Plains Camp and a secluded mobile camp beneath the stars, guests experience the Karoo at walking pace, reconnecting mind, body and spirit in a landscape restored to its wild state.

Beyond its wildlife, Samara reveals the rich human history of the Karoo through guided explorations of ancient Khoi San rock art and indigenous medicinal plants.

The reserve’s newly launched Medicinal Plants Guide, developed in collaboration with Master Tracker and long-time Samara team member Pokkie Benadie, herbalist Roxanne Joubert and adventure guide Branden Hair, documents generations of traditional botanical knowledge while showcasing the extraordinary biodiversity across Samara’s five distinct biomes.

Ultimate luxury experience will end on 2026-09-30