At Rhino Africa we’re constantly on the lookout for fantastic new places and new experiences to bring to our clients. Samara is one such place.
One of the least visited, but most breathtaking provinces in South Africa is the Eastern Cape. Samara has created a unique wilderness experience in a heart-stoppingly beautiful amphitheatre of mountains on 70,000 acres of pristine land. We wouldn’t send guests here who are dead set on seeing the Big 5 – there are no elephant or lion at Samara. But there’s a very good reason for that. At Samara, they really want guests to be at one with nature, to roam freely, to dine on a mountain top and to marvel at the sun rise and unspoilt nature. Not only are lions and elephant dangerous, but elephant cause mass destruction and would soon wreck the harmony of this peaceful retreat. That’s not to say you’ll go wanting on the wildlife front, with over 66 mammal species and 220 bird species recorded. The emphasis at Samara is on total rest and relaxation through tailor made pampering. And with three accommodation options, there is something for everyone. The Karoo Lodge has three luxury suites and three individual, Karoo-style cottages. But if it’s exclusive use with friends or family that you’re after, look no further than the Manor or the The Mountain Retreat. Drop us an enquiry if you would like to find out more about staying at Samara.
Conservation is paramount at Samara. A place where magical tales are woven about the millions of springbok which once roamed this area, the “Vanished Kings”, the Cape lion who majestically strode the Plains of Camdeboo, the rhino, the cheetah, the explorers, the characters of yesteryear and the haunting beauty of the semi-desert land. Nearly 125 years after it was last seen, the cheetah reigns again. Privileged to be home to the highly endangered cheetah, Samara also hosts a remarkable individual. Born a wild cheetah, Sibella’s life nearly ended at the hands of hunters. After being savagely treated in captivity, she was fortunate enough to be rescued and underwent life-saving surgery and rehabilitation at the De Wildt Cheetah and Wildlife Trust. In December 2003, Sibella started a new chapter in her life when she and two males were released into Samara. We’ll be keeping an eye on Sibella as well as taking a closer look at the accommodation and experience at Samara in future RA Blog entries, so watch this space…
The passionate Samara owners have completely rejuvenated this magnificent land. They are completely smitten by the Great Karoo. We think you will be too.
