1 / 28
Lalibela Game Reserve Tree Tops is a stunning tented safari camp located on a private Big 5 wildlife reserve in the scenic Eastern Cape province. Positioned at tree top level on thatched platforms, the luxurious safari tents are interconnected by elevated walkways, providing breathtaking views of the densely wooded valley. The five en-suite rooms, featuring canvas walls and thatched roofs, boast expansive windows that immerse guests in the bush experience. Each room includes a private verandah, offering a secluded space for guests to unwind and enjoy the surroundings.
The lodge also features a spacious lounge and an open-air dining deck overlooking a small waterhole, and guests can relax in the sun by the swimming pool or unwind in the shaded gazebo. The waterhole attracts regular visits from elephants, and a resident group of Nyala is often observed from the rooms and walkways, while bird enthusiasts may be delighted by sightings of the beautiful Knysna Loerie. For an optimal African safari experience, we recommend a stay of 2 or 3 nights.
Lalibela Game Reserve is a private wildlife concession in the Eastern Cape of South Africa, known for its exceptional, continuous, and self-sustaining expanse where various species roam freely. Unlike other reserves, Lalibela avoids separating lions, buffalos, and elephants into distinct enclosures, fostering a harmonious natural environment. Notably, Lalibela boasts more lions than visitors, and a strict policy on the number of vehicles per sighting ensures unparalleled wildlife encounters without disruptions.
The landscape itself contributes to Lalibela's uniqueness, with a prevalence of grassland savanna supporting an exceptionally high concentration of game, surpassing other Eastern Cape reserves. This abundance, combined with impressive numbers of plains game species, sustains a remarkable predator population. Furthermore, Lalibela stands out as one of the rare Eastern Cape reserves without public roads cutting through its vastness, guaranteeing an undisturbed and immersive experience in this extraordinary wildlife sanctuary.
K. Ford
Stayed at: Lalibela Game Reserve Tree Tops
Thrilling
Our experience was magical. From arriving and having the staff greet us like they had been waiting for us for months to the beautiful lodging, to the top tier food and service, and the unforgettable, friendly, warm, welcoming staff. Sivi, our game drive Captain made our safaris amazing. Our first drive we saw lions and baby cheetahs and elephants. Thinking we couldn’t top that, the next morning we saw buffalo and rhinos and more elephants playing in the water.
T. Howard
Stayed at: Lalibela Game Reserve Tree Tops
Excellent
We stayed at Treetops for three nights so went on six safari drives with Sevi, who was excellent - friendly, knowledgeable and great at finding whatever animals you request. His wife runs the lodge very well - comfy rooms with aircon, good and varied food and a good selection of wines (all included). On the middle day a small herd of elephants arrived to drink from the waterhole underneath the lodge.
N2 Grahamstown, Sidbury, 6105
Directions to Lalibela Game Reserve from the Port Elizabeth Airport
• As you are exiting the carhire car park, turn right.
• Turn right again at the Tjunction and drive past the petrol station on your left.
• Almost immediately there is a large traffic circle. Take the first exit left from the traffic circle.
• Go over the narrowgauge railway line.
• At the first set of traffic lights, turn right into Heugh Road and continue straight down Heugh Road towards the sea.
• At the 4th set of traffic lights on Heugh Road (next to the fire station), turn left onto the M4 elevated highway.
• Continue on the M4, past the harbour on your right.
• Keep driving until you see the N2 Grahamstown sign, which will lead you onto the N2 in the direction of Grahamstown.
• After about 51 km you will come to a large “spaghetti” junction. Follow the signs for N2 Grahamstown. Keep on the N2 at all times. You will pass the Nanaga Farmstall. It is still approximately 38 kms to Lalibela (A 25 minute drive).
• Drive along the N2 until you cross the Bushman’s River. After 13 kms you will see the signpost for Lalibela Game Reserve on your left. Turn in through the gates and report to reception.
• Driving time: Approximately 1 hour & 15 minutes from Port Elizabeth. (90 kilometres).
Notes:
• Keep on the N2 at all times and do not take any gravel (dirt) roads that are suggested by your GPS or Google Maps. The entrance to Lalibela is situated just off the N2 highway.
• Should you wish to make use of Google Maps or a GPS please search for “Lalibela Game Reserve” and not the name of the lodge that you are staying at.
• Lalibela Game Reserve is easily accessible by a small car, so there is no need to rent a SUV / 4 X 4 vehicle. You will park your car at reception for the duration of your stay. You will be transferred to your lodge in one of our vehicles.
• Check in is between 12h00 and 13h00. Lunch is served at approximately 14h00.
Contact:
• 087 550 1885 (Lalibela Reception – Follow voice prompts and press option “0” for reception)
• 087 550 1885 (Lalibela Reservations Follow voice prompts and press option "1" or "2" for Reservations)
Yes, R150 to R200 per adult and from R75 to R100 for children under 12
Yes, there is one for guests to use.