Tucked away in the vast Great Karoo, Samara Karoo Reserve offers a safari experience unlike any other in South Africa. Far from the busier parks, this 67,000-acre private reserve is a pioneering conservation project dedicated to rewilding the land and restoring ancient migration routes. With breathtaking landscapes, rare wildlife encounters, and luxurious accommodations, Samara is the perfect retreat for those seeking solitude, adventure, and a deep connection to nature.
A Landscape Like No Other
The Karoo is one of South Africa’s most dramatic and diverse ecosystems. Sweeping semi-arid plains, towering dolomite mountains, and lush river valleys create an ever-changing backdrop for your safari. Unlike the dense bushveld of traditional safari destinations, the Karoo’s open terrain offers incredible visibility, making it easier to spot wildlife and soak in the vastness of the landscape.
Exceptional wildlife encounters
Samara is home to a growing population of cheetahs, black rhinos, Cape mountain zebra, giraffes, and herds of eland and springbok. Thanks to its rewilding efforts, the reserve has successfully reintroduced species that once roamed these plains, bringing the Karoo’s ecosystem back to life.
Cheetah Tracking on Foot
One of Samara’s signature experiences is tracking wild cheetahs on foot. Led by expert guides, guests walk through the reserve following fresh tracks, often coming face-to-face with these majestic big cats. Seeing a cheetah resting under a shepherd’s tree or watching a mother teach her cubs to hunt is an unforgettable wildlife experience.
Big five and beyond
While Samara is not a Big Five reserve yet, its conservation efforts are leading to the reintroduction of elephants and lions, restoring the Karoo to its former wild glory. The reserve is already home to buffalo, rhinos, and leopards, along with an impressive variety of birdlife, aardvarks, and secretive brown hyenas.
Luxury in the heart of the wilderness
Samara offers two exclusive lodges, blending elegance with nature:
- Karoo Lodge – A beautifully restored farmhouse offering classic colonial charm, wraparound verandas, and sweeping mountain views.
- The Manor – A contemporary, private-use villa with infinity pools, fireplaces, and personalised service, perfect for families or small groups.
Both lodges provide world-class cuisine, with meals crafted from fresh, locally sourced ingredients and served under the vast, starlit Karoo skies.
More than a safari: A conservation legacy
Samara is more than just a luxury safari destination—it is a pioneering conservation initiative. By restoring degraded farmland and reintroducing key species, the reserve is helping to revive the Karoo’s lost ecosystem. Visitors are not just observers but active participants in a long-term conservation story, making each stay deeply meaningful.
When to visit Samara Karoo
- Spring & Summer (September – March): Warmer temperatures, lush landscapes, and great wildlife viewing.
- Autumn & Winter (April – August): Crisp mornings, stunning clear skies, and a higher chance of seeing rare nocturnal species like aardvark.
A safari unlike any other
For those seeking privacy, exclusivity, and a safari off the beaten track, Samara Karoo Reserve delivers a truly unique experience. Whether you’re tracking cheetahs, hiking through rugged mountains, or simply enjoying the tranquillity of the Karoo, Samara offers a safari that is as much about rewilding the land as it is about reconnecting with nature.