Discover the untamed beauty of Schotia Private Game Reserve, one of the oldest and most diverse private reserves in the Eastern Cape. Nestled along the eastern boundary of the renowned Addo Elephant National Park, Schotia offers an unforgettable Big 5 safari in a malaria-free setting, just a short drive from Gqeberha (Port Elizabeth) and Colchester.
This six-hour afternoon-to-evening safari adventure includes a four-hour guided game drive in an open Land Rover, led by an experienced ranger. Along the way, you’ll likely encounter over 40 species of wildlife, from giraffe, rhino, zebra, and hippo to the majestic lion, often best seen as the sun sets.
A refreshment break mid-way offers a chance to stretch your legs and soak up the serenity of the bush.
As dusk falls, head to the atmospheric open-air lapa, one of South Africa’s largest. Dine under the stars beside a crackling fire, with a feast of hearty South African dishes like slow-cooked venison stew, roasted vegetables, homemade bread, and traditional desserts.
Whether you're a first-time safari-goer or a seasoned wildlife enthusiast, Schotia’s rich biodiversity and intimate setting offer some of the best wildlife viewing in the Eastern Cape.
Did you know? Lions can sleep up to 20 hours a day, saving their energy for hunting at dusk or during the cooler hours of the night.
14:30 – Collection from Your Accommodation
Your adventure begins with collection from your accommodation in Gqeberha (Port Elizabeth) or Colchester. Upon arrival at Schotia Private Game Reserve, enjoy a warm welcome, tea or coffee, and a short briefing by your guide. Make sure you have your camera, binoculars, and a light jacket ready!
15:00 – Guided Game Drive Begins
Climb aboard your open Land Rover and set off on a thrilling 4-hour guided safari through the reserve. Schotia is home to an impressive variety of wildlife. Keep your eyes peeled for giraffes, rhinos, hippos, crocodiles, zebras, wildebeest, and antelopes. As the sun begins to set, lions often become more active, offering a chance for memorable sightings.
16:30 – Comfort Stop & Refreshments
Stretch your legs at a scenic stop in the bush, where you'll enjoy light refreshments and have access to restroom facilities before continuing your game drive.
19:00 – Fireside Dinner at the Lapa
Return to the reserve’s expansive open-air lapa, one of the largest in the country, for a traditional South African dinner served around a roaring fire. The thatched roof and rustic charm create a cosy, welcoming atmosphere beneath the African sky.
Typical menu items include:
21:00 – Safari Concludes
The tour usually concludes around 21:00. Your guide will transfer you safely back to your accommodation. On the return journey, keep an eye out for nocturnal animals; this is often the best time to spot lions on the move.
Please Note:
Terms and Conditions Apply
Rates (Per Person in ZAR)
1 November 2024 – 31 October 2025
• Solo Traveller: R5 740
• Min 2 – 3 People Per Person: R4 310
• Min 4 – 7 People Per Person: R3 590
Wildlife Sightings Disclaimer
Wildlife sightings are not guaranteed. While the reserve is home to the Big Five and a diverse array of animals, all sightings are subject to the unpredictable nature of wildlife and cannot be guaranteed.
✔ Passport or ID (or a copy)
✔ Sunscreen, Sunglasses, & hat
✔ Camera or Binoculars
✔ Due to the climate of the Eastern Cape, we can experience extremes of both hot and cold in every season.
✔ Extra drinking water if required
✔ Pickup and drop-off
✔ Air-conditioned vehicle
✔ Professional English-speaking guide
✔ Conservation fees and Game Drive Fees
✔ Game Drive in an Open Game Drive Vehicle
✔ A bottle of mineral water at the start of the tour
✔ Coffee / Tea / Juice
✔ Evening Meal
✔ Selected Beverages
✔ Qualified Nature Guide
✘ Tips and gratuities
✘ Personal expenses
✘ Activities not mentioned
✘ Accommodation
✘ Lunch
✘ Items of a personal nature
✘ Premium branded beverages
Disclaimer:
The client shall not hold any claim against Blu-Pebbles Tours & Transfer (PTY) Ltd, our partners or employees for any injury, loss, accident, discomfort or inconvenience that may have been caused to the client’s self/partner/children/family members or friends on any tour or transfer including against any of his/her/their property and/or belongings from any cause whatsoever whether occasioned by any act, neglect or default of Blu-Pebbles Tours & Transfer (PTY) Ltd or our service providers, employees or associates or by any act of God, nature, theft or civil commotion/disruption. The client in whole hereby indemnifies Blu-Pebbles Tours & Transfer (PTY) Ltd against any such claim and hereby holds Blu-Pebbles Tours & Transfer (PTY) Ltd harmless in all respect thereof.
Disclaimer: The client shall not hold any claim against Blu-Pebbles Tours & Transfer (PTY) Ltd, our partners or employees for any injury, loss, accident, discomfort or inconvenience that may have been caused to the client’s self/partner/children/family members or friends on any tour or transfer including against any of his/her/their property and/or belongings from any cause whatsoever whether occasioned by any act, neglect or default of Blu-Pebbles Tours & Transfer (PTY) Ltd or our service providers, employees or associates or by any act of God, nature, theft or civil commotion/disruption. The client in whole hereby indemnifies Blu-Pebbles Tours & Transfer (PTY) Ltd against any such claim and hereby holds Blu-Pebbles Tours & Transfer (PTY) Ltd harmless in all respect thereof.
