By Annette O'Neil
A Review of South African Safaris
Tucked along South
Africa's Wild Coast, Inkwenkwezi's nearly 10,000 acres spans the rolling coastal hillsides of South Africa's malaria-free Eastern Cape. The game reserve offers day and twilight game drives in open-topped vehicles, horseback safaris, quad bike tours, hiking, birdwatching, elephant interactions and a range of other activities. The property encompasses five different regional ecosystems (biomes) and features a canoe route into a bustling tidal estuary. Guests are accommodated in luxuriously appointed safari tents and enjoy chef-prepared meals.
Wows and Woes
The reserve is five minutes from Wild Coast beaches and the town of Cintsa, as well as being a short drive from the East London airport.
Though malaria-free, Inkwenkwezi is definitely not pest-free. Bring your DEET or you'll be getting lots of tick-removal practice.
Insider Tips
Inkwenkwezi's Wednesday Burger Night is a local tradition--don't miss out. If you manage to pack away one of their jaw-droppingly massive hamburgers, you're given the opportunity to commemorate the occasion with an exclusive shirt; if you manage to eat two, they'll give you a case of South African beer.
Author's Most Memorable Moment
Three of Inkwenkwezi's lion cubs play in the afternoon sun.
Inkwenkwezi participates in a program that raises baby lions, so the reserve generally has a few little ones on site during cub season. One morning, I was invited to toss dead chickens to them over the fence. It was a once-in-a-lifetime experience, for sure, to watch the giant kittens leap up and catch them in the air.
Bottom Line
Inkwenkwezi is a solid choice for any traveler looking to balance game viewing with beachcombing, canoeing and in-town excursions.
About the Author:
Annette O'Neil graduated from the University of Southern California with degrees in cinema, global communication and geology. A writer for more than a decade, O'Neil has written copy, content and editorial articles for hundreds of clients and publications, including Yoga Awakening Africa and Whole Life Times.
