Ufumene African Safaris Game Lodge

Where Endless Horizons, African Wilderness & Luxury Come Together

Your first impression of Ufumene is one of extraordinary space. From the moment you arrive, your eyes are drawn across endless plains and rolling hills that seem to stretch forever.  Beneath vast African skies, rugged landscapes meet tranquil bushveld, creating a sense of freedom, privacy and peace that is increasingly rare. Welcome to Ufumene Private Lodge, an extraordinary African retreat set across 20,000 acres of private conservation land near Alicedale in the Eastern Cape.  Situated approximately 90 km northeast of Gqeberha (Port Elizabeth) and 60 km west of Makhanda (Grahamstown). Ufumene offers an authentic escape into nature while combining luxurious accommodation, exceptional cuisine, personalised hospitality and an impressive range of experiences. Located in a malaria-free region, Ufumene is the perfect destination for couples, families, friends, nature lovers, adventure seekers, safari enthusiasts and those simply looking for somewhere peaceful to disconnect from everyday life.

A Private African Retreat

Ufumene is much more than a place to stay. It is an immersive African experience where the beauty of the landscape becomes part of every moment. Our private conservation setting means access is restricted, allowing guests to enjoy a genuine sense of space, tranquillity and exclusivity.  Days can be spent exploring the undulating terrain, observing wildlife, birdwatching, cycling along quiet trails or simply relaxing beside the pool with the spectacular landscape unfolding before you. As evening approaches, the scenery transforms beneath unforgettable Karoo sunsets. After dark, the wide-open skies reveal a spectacular display of stars, creating the perfect atmosphere for evenings around the fire, leisurely dinners and meaningful conversations. For those seeking adventure, Ufumene also offers guided and ethical hunting experiences, while a variety of nearby activities provide opportunities to discover the remarkable wildlife, history, culture and natural beauty of the Eastern Cape.

Luxury Accommodation

At Ufumene, accommodation is designed around comfort, privacy and understated luxury.

The Game Lodge

Our beautifully appointed Game Lodge combines the charm of a classic South African farmhouse with modern comfort. Its stunning wrap-around porch provides the perfect vantage point from which to enjoy the surrounding wilderness and wildlife. Inside, the lodge offers a private living area, library, lounge and dining spaces, while the sparkling swimming pool, spacious pool deck and comfortable loungers provide an inviting place to relax during warmer days. The lodge features three beautifully appointed double suites, each offering a spacious bedroom with a king-sized bed, lounge area and full en-suite bathroom.  Every room has been thoughtfully designed to create a relaxed retreat atmosphere where guests can unwind in complete comfort. The large Deluxe Suite offers additional privacy and indulgence, making it particularly suited to couples looking for a romantic safari escape. The Game Lodge is also off-grid, using solar power and borehole water, allowing guests to enjoy modern comforts while remaining closely connected to the natural environment.

Killian’s Rest

For guests looking for complete privacy and exclusivity, Killian’s Rest is a striking custom-designed villa situated adjacent to the Game Lodge. Available for exclusive use by families, friends or private groups, this light-filled villa features three large en-suite king rooms, private dressing rooms and walk-in closets, original artwork and exceptional high-end finishes. The villa's state-of-the-art kitchen is equipped with everything needed for a memorable stay and even comes with the option of a private chef.  Guests can enjoy indoor and outdoor dining, a private deck, fireplaces, two plunge pools, a gym, sauna, outdoor showers and beautifully landscaped gardens filled with indigenous and succulent vegetation, colourful plumbago and fragrant rosemary. Killian’s Rest is also entirely off-grid, powered by solar panels and borehole water.

Deluxe Suite

Luxury Bedroom

Thoughtful Facilities & Comfort

Whether staying at the Game Lodge or Killian’s Rest, guests can expect a comprehensive range of amenities designed to make their stay effortless.

The Game Lodge offers:

• High-speed and unlimited Wi-Fi
• Air-conditioned rooms and ceiling fans
• King-size beds
• Full bathrooms with showers and baths
• Coffee stations and delicious treats
• Television
• Bar and fully stocked drinks fridges
• Swimming pool
• Boma and fire pit
• Barbecue and pizza oven
• Board games
• Reference books and novels
• Ice machines
• Hair dryers and safes
• USB charging points and standard plug points
• US adaptors
• Heaters and hot-water bottles
• Emergency lighting
• Additional blankets and pillows
• Luxury bathroom amenities
• Small gift shop

Killian’s Rest adds further luxury with:

• Three large en-suite king rooms
• Air-conditioning and ceiling fans
• Unlimited Wi-Fi
• Private dressing rooms
• Indoor and outdoor showers
• Indoor baths
• Sauna
• Laundry room and tumble dryer
• Mini bar
• Two plunge pools
• Private deck
• Gym
• Indoor and outdoor fireplaces
• Indoor and outdoor dining
• Multiple refrigerators and bar fridges
• Coffee station
• Dishwasher
• Indoor, outdoor and in-room televisions
• Pizza oven and barbecue facilities
• Electric blankets and luxury amenities

Exceptional Hospitality

At the heart of Ufumene is a genuine passion for hospitality.

Our dedicated team, led by Carene, takes pride in providing highly personalised service throughout your stay. From the moment you arrive, attention is given to the details that make a holiday truly memorable. Guests can enjoy special menus, flexible mealtimes, room turndowns, wake-up calls and personalised assistance throughout their visit. Our hospitality team is attentive without being intrusive, allowing you to relax at your own pace. We are also proud to employ members of the local community, ensuring that the warmth and character of the surrounding area are reflected in the Ufumene experience.

The Taste of South Africa

Food is an important part of our story.

No African retreat would be complete without authentic South African cuisine, and our chefs take great pleasure in creating menus that showcase the flavours and traditions of the region. Guests can enjoy venison, beef, Karoo lamb, chicken and pork, together with South African favourites such as bobotie, milk tart and homemade biltong. We regularly host traditional braais in our boma or on the spacious deck, serving favourites such as freshly prepared roosterkoek and boerewors. For those who would like a more interactive experience, guests can even join our chefs in the kitchen, learn some of their recipes and share some of their own. Your stay includes all food and drinks, and dietary requirements can be accommodated when advised in advance. Guests can also request private or outdoor dining for a more intimate experience.

Experiences at Ufumene

There is no single way to experience Ufumene.

Couples can enjoy a romantic getaway surrounded by peaceful wilderness, while families can discover the wonders of African wildlife together.  Adventure seekers can take to the skies, explore the landscape by e-bike or experience guided hunting, while naturalists can spend hours discovering the property's diverse flora, fauna and birdlife.

Wildlife & Safari

Ufumene offers opportunities to experience wildlife both on the property and through nearby safari destinations. A visit to Addo Elephant National Park, approximately an hour away, provides the opportunity to experience one of South Africa's renowned wildlife destinations.  Guests can choose between guided game drives or a self-drive safari and have the chance to encounter elephants, lions, buffalo and many other species. A collaboration with Schotia Safaris offers another unforgettable opportunity to experience the Big Five and enjoy a traditional safari cookout in one of South Africa's large open-air lapas.

E-Biking

Explore Ufumene's wildlife and spectacular landscape by e-bike along its dirt roads and trails. The almost silent bikes allow guests to travel further while minimising disturbance to the animals and surroundings. This experience is subject to guide availability.

Birding

Birdlife is abundant across the property, particularly during summer when migratory species return. The dams and water points attract a variety of waterbirds, while the combination of Karoo bushveld, grassland and fynbos creates a diverse birding environment. Birders may encounter fascinating species including Ludwig's bustard, southern black korhaan and martial eagle, South Africa's largest eagle.

Whale & Dolphin Watching

During the appropriate season, guests can enjoy whale and dolphin watching from Port Elizabeth. A boat trip takes you into the bay where whales and dolphins can be observed, with opportunities to see penguins around a nearby island.

Daniell Cheetah Breeding Project

Guests can visit the Daniell Cheetah Breeding Project, established in 2001 with just three cats and developed into an important conservation and educational initiative. Visitors can learn more about cheetah conservation and encounter several of South Africa's wild cat species, as well as meerkats and spotted hyenas.

Wellness

For those who prefer relaxation, therapists can be arranged to provide massages, manicures and pedicures in the privacy of your room. Treatments are provided by off-site therapists and must be booked in advance.

History, Culture & Natural Heritage

Ufumene is situated in a region rich in history and cultural heritage. The Eastern Cape was originally inhabited by the indigenous Khoi-San people, whose presence can still be seen in the rock art and cultural traces scattered throughout the landscape.  European settlement during the 19th century brought significant changes to land use and agriculture, while the area also played a role in the military history of the Boer War. For guests interested in the region's fascinating past, Carene is our resident history enthusiast and is always happy to share stories and insights about the area. A visit to nearby Makhanda, formerly known as Grahamstown, offers another opportunity to discover the region's history, museums, restaurants, pubs and charming shops.

More Than a Safari

Our retreat offers far more than traditional wildlife and relaxation. Spend the morning exploring the bush, enjoy a leisurely lunch overlooking the plains, cool off beside the pool, head out on an e-bike adventure or simply sit quietly and watch the landscape change as the sun moves across the sky. Whether your perfect holiday involves adventure, wildlife, food, relaxation, romance or simply escaping the demands of everyday life, Ufumene allows you to create an experience that is entirely your own.

Our Location & Getting Here

Ufumene is situated on private conservation land near Alicedale in South Africa's Eastern Cape, approximately:

• 90 km northeast of Gqeberha (Port Elizabeth)
• 60 km west of Makhanda (Grahamstown)
• Approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes by road from Port Elizabeth Airport
• Port Elizabeth Airport is the closest airport, and complimentary transfers are provided for guests. The team can also assist with flight recommendations and travel arrangements.

For international travellers, OR Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg is the closest major international airport. Helicopter transfers can be arranged for a seamless and memorable arrival. If your flight schedule requires an overnight stay in Johannesburg, the Ufumene team can assist with accommodation recommendations and transfers. On your return journey to the airport, additional time can also be arranged for shopping and souvenirs.

Come & Experience Ufumene

Ufumene is a place where luxury does not compete with nature — it complements it. Here, endless horizons meet intimate hospitality, modern comfort meets authentic African wilderness, and adventure exists alongside complete tranquillity. From the first breathtaking view across the plains to evenings beneath star-filled skies, every stay is designed to leave you with memories that last long after you have returned home.

Ufumene Private Lodge — your exclusive African retreat in the heart of the Eastern Cape.