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Riverdene Family Lodge

Family-Friendly Big Five Safari in a Malaria-Free Reserve

Riverdene Family Lodge combines the excitement of an African safari with thoughtful, child-friendly touches—making it a perfect base for a family holiday. Set within the renowned, malaria-free Shamwari Private Game Reserve, days flow from unhurried game drives to time around the pool and play zones, while parents relax knowing expert rangers and a dedicated kids program keep young explorers engaged and learning about the wild.

Price Per Person Sharing From:

USD 1,552 - 1,897

Rating | Luxury

Family room with a double bed, extra bed and zebra prints on the wall.

Highlights & What to Expect

Twice-daily guided game drives in a Big Five reserve rich in wildlife, birdlife and flora.
Kids on Safari program with fun, educational activities for all ages.
Adventure play: connected treehouses, zip line and climbing walls designed for kids.
Visit the Born Free Centre and the Shamwari Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre for conservation insight.

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Overview of Riverdene Family Lodge

Nestled between the Boesmans River and the landscapes adjoining Addo Elephant National Park, Riverdene places families in a gentle, malaria-free corner of the Eastern Cape.

Location & Setting

The lodge’s lawns, pool terrace and shaded nooks give parents room to unwind while kids roam purpose-built play spaces close by. Sunrise and sunset bring soft light over open plains, setting the scene for relaxed drives with frequent sightings and big skies. Access is easy—around 45–60 minutes by road from Gqeberha (Port Elizabeth) Airport—making Riverdene a natural fit for combining coast, Garden Route and safari into one effortless itinerary.

Rooms

Riverdene offers nine tastefully decorated luxury rooms designed with families in mind. Each features an ensuite bathroom, minibar, international adapters, electronic safe and television, plus a small lounge with a sleeper couch to comfortably host up to three guests. Private patios open to landscaped grounds, perfect for quiet moments between activities. Soft, contemporary finishes keep the mood calm and inviting, while practical touches—ample storage, blackout curtains and climate control—make early starts and post-drive naps easy. It’s an effortless blend of comfort and convenience that complements the lodge’s family-first approach to the safari day.

Facilities

Facilities balance relaxation for parents with adventure for children. A swimming pool with a shallow kids’ area sits beside sun loungers for unhurried afternoons, while the playground and jungle gym keep young travelers entertained. Indoors, a welcoming lounge and dining area lead to a boma for fireside dinners under starlit skies. A small gift shop stocks essentials and keepsakes, and a menu of spa treatments helps tired muscles reset after active days. With friendly staff on hand and thoughtful layouts, Riverdene delivers a smooth, family-oriented base for exploring Shamwari’s wildlife and wide-open Eastern Cape scenery.

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