Somkhanda Community Game Reserve is a community-owned Big 5 game reserve that stretches across 12 000 hectares of natural Zululand Bushveld. This majestic reserve, which was formally proclaimed as a Nature Reserve in 2011 is not only the first community-owned game reserve that introduced the critically endangered black rhino as part of the WWF Black Rhino Range Expansion Program, but it is also home to the critically endangered African wild dog.
Apart from using the reserve as an economic engine for the neighbouring and beneficiary communities through sustainable – tourism and resource utilization practices, it places nature conservation as its core value. Somkhanda Community Game Reserve contributes significantly towards both local and metapopulation conservation management programs and has contributed towards the establishment of viable populations of black rhinos and wild dogs at various other protected areas across Africa.
Apart from the healthy rhino and wild dog populations, the Somkhanda Community Game Reserve also offers a safe and stable environment to leopard, lion, spotted hyena, brown hyena, caracal, serval, elephant, buffalo, giraffe, blue wildebeest, zebra, nyala, bushbuck, red duiker and a variety of typical bushveld game. As a result of these achievements, Somkhanda Community Game Reserve is promoted as a flagship project for land restitution and transformation in South Africa, as well as an example of conservation-based community development.
SOMKHANDA LODGE
This self-catering thatched lodge overlooking the rolling valleys and numerous indigenous trees seems to carve a little love cupid in all the hearts of visitors that have stayed there.
This lodge consists of 6 individual, very spacious, ensuite units each tastefully decorated. The units have access to a communal kitchen, two separate bomas (braai areas), and a lovely pool area (Please bring your own pool towels). Within short walking distance of the beautiful restaurant viewing deck overlooking a large waterhole. Each of the six rooms sleeps two guests, however, two of the rooms can accommodate a further two guests.
TAMBOTI BUSHCAMP
The thrill of an ‘Africa Under Canvas’ experience under a canopy of Tamboti trees lies awaits you at Somkhanda’s (long awaited) intimate wilderness tented camp. This unfenced camp comprises of five homely decorated tents erected in a laager formation around a large fire pit. There is an added 5 x 5 relaxing lounge tent where one can chill, read a book or play board games.
Each of the tents sleeps 2 guests on single beds. Although wild this romantic gem of a camp still offers creature comforts with its comfy beds, hot showers, and hearty authentic bush meals. Minimum two nights and four guests (max 10 guests). Only one group may book this site at a time. For large groups (8+) catering can be organised in advance if requested.
For other facilities/experiences please visit our website www.somkhanda.co.za
For bookings and further enquiries please email us at bookings@somkhanda.co.za
