An Afternoon Safari
An Afternoon Safari at Botlierskop Private Game Reserve Tucked between Mossel Bay and George along South Africa's stunning Garden Route, Botlierskop Private Game Reserve is one of those places that quietly takes your breath away. Rolling hills, open plains, and mountain views stretching as far as the eye can see — it's a safari experience that feels worlds away from the ordinary, yet is remarkably easy to reach from almost anywhere along the Garden Route.
My fiancé and I visited on the 7th of February 2026 for the afternoon game drive, and from the moment we climbed into the open safari vehicle, we knew we were in for something special. There's a particular kind of magic to a summer afternoon safari — the golden light softening over the bush, a warm breeze drifting through the open vehicle, and that quiet thrill of not knowing what you might find around the next bend.
Our ranger set the tone immediately — knowledgeable, enthusiastic, and clearly passionate about the reserve and its wildlife. That kind of guidance makes all the difference.
An Incredible Afternoon of Wildlife
What unfolded over the next few hours was nothing short of extraordinary. We spotted rhino — powerful and calm up close in a way that stays with you long after the drive ends. Buffalo moved in formation across the landscape, while wildebeest grazed undisturbed in the open fields. Impala darted gracefully through the bush, and the elegant eland, the largest of Africa's antelope, moved with a surprising gentleness given their size.
Then came the elephants. Watching these giants navigate the bush with such quiet grace is one of those experiences that simply never gets old. The cheetahs were a true bucket-list moment — sleek, striking, and utterly mesmerising. Hippos lounged in the water nearby, just their eyes and ears breaking the surface, while waterbuck grazed along the banks.
The giraffes were perhaps the most visually stunning sighting of the afternoon. Seeing them move effortlessly against the wide African skyline is the kind of image that stays with you. Zebras added a graphic, photogenic contrast to the golden bushveld, their stripes impossibly crisp in the afternoon light. And the lions — well, they were sleeping, as lions tend to do for much of the day — but even catching a glimpse of Africa's king at rest felt like a privilege.
Every sighting felt like a gift. Sharing each one with my fiancé made the whole experience even more meaningful.
More Than Just a Game Drive
Botlierskop is far more than a safari destination. Visitors can also enjoy horseback safaris through the reserve, guided bush walks, elephant encounters, bird watching, scenic picnics, and a full-service on-site spa. There are family-friendly activities and kids' programmes too, making it a wonderful destination for all kinds of travellers — whether you're after adventure or simply a peaceful reconnection with nature.
Accommodation Worth Staying For
The accommodation at Botlierskop is genuinely beautiful. Guests can choose between luxury tented lodges and elegant suites, all set within the reserve and offering sweeping views of the surrounding landscape. The tented lodges manage to feel immersive and close to nature while still delivering real comfort — private decks, spacious interiors, and outdoor baths or showers that make the whole stay feel like a retreat. Waking up to the sounds of the bush and that Garden Route light filtering through is something you won't forget quickly. For couples, it's a particularly special escape.
Dining with a View
The on-site restaurant rounds out the experience beautifully. Large windows frame the reserve, keeping you connected to the landscape even as you dine. The menu runs from hearty morning breakfasts to thoughtfully prepared evening meals, and there's something deeply satisfying about sitting down to a good dinner after an afternoon in the bush — replaying every sighting while the African sun fades over the hills.
The Verdict
Botlierskop Private Game Reserve offers something genuinely rare: a luxury safari experience that doesn't require a long-haul journey into the interior. If you're travelling the Garden Route and want to add a wildlife experience that's both accessible and utterly memorable, this is the place. It blends adventure, natural beauty, and comfort in a way that's hard to match — and harder still to forget.
Stay tune for the next adventure
