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Address:
Friendly N6
35 km from East London
Eastern Cape
South Africa

Mpongo Private Game Reserve


5 STAR EAST LONDON MPONGO PRIVATE GAME RESERVE
EASTERN CAPE, SOUTH AFRICA

Mpongo Game Reserve is situated in the South African province of the Eastern Cape, just 35 kilometres from East London. This private game reserve combines African hospitality, excellent game viewing and convenient proximity to some of the most stunning coastal areas of South Africa. In addition, it is situated within a malaria-free zone, making it safe for the entire family, honeymooning couples or corporate colleagues. Surrounded by hills, valleys and fertile vegetation, in which a plethora of animals roam, Mpongo truly is a delight.

This private game reserve was named after the Umpongo River, which is culturally and historically relevant to the local Xhosa tribes. It was believed to be near the home of Nonkosi, who prompted a mass suicide attempt amongst Xhosa folk, as well as the site of some of a well-known kraal's relics.

Stretching for over 3200 hectares, the reserve is the local habitat of several exciting species, including the Lion, Elephant, Hippopotamus, Rhinoceros, Giraffe, different antelope species and an array of birds. Additional attractions and facilities include a swimming pool, restaurant, Boma, boardroom, conference rooms, self-driven game drives or guided tours.

Whether guests stay for a romantic weekend or indulge in a week-long getaway, Mpongo Private Game Reserve promises an exclusive experience.

Accommodation

Accommodation at Mpongo Private Game Reserve comprises 11 bedrooms and an opulent Honeymoon Suite. There are three chalets, each with two bedrooms, en-suite bathrooms, lounges and private wooden decks overlooking the stunning river. From these, game can be spotted roaming and feeding, while guests enjoy the comfort of their suite. Huberta Lodge consists of five bedrooms as well as the Honeymoon Suite. The bedrooms have a distinctly colonial style with elegant décor and en-suite bathrooms. The Honeymoon Suite is made extra special by its own Jacuzzi, lounge and kitchenette for the ultimate in romantic privacy.

The lodge itself is equipped with a spacious dining area, inviting lounge, a refreshing blue swimming pool, a deck, a barbecue area (or braai) and a bar.

Dining

Huberta Restaurant was named after a famous hippo, who travelled more than 1600 kilometres through the Eastern Cape before meeting her tragic end at the hands of a hunter at Keiskamma River in 1931. The local Xhosa people honoured her as the spirit of an ancient chief. While her body has been preserved and displayed at the Amathole Museum in King William's Town, her heritage is preserved at the Huberta Restaurant, while diners get to enjoy the view of other hippos within the reserve. This is primarily enabled by virtue of the restaurant's positioning above the watering hole. So, as tasty morsels are savoured, guests can watch these impressive beasts indulging in refreshing swims and cooling off in the African heat.

Traditional Xhosa elements have been introduced into the décor of the restaurant and, while maintaining the safety of the diners at all times, close encounters with some of Africa's wildest animals are enabled by the restaurant's proximity to the animals. On Sundays, the hippos are fed, creating quite a spectacle for the diners. The cuisine boasts African flavours with European influences and every dish is complemented by the ideal wine from the extensive wine list. Lunch and dinner is served to the public as well as to guests. Breakfasts are served to guests, as are light pub lunches from 10h00 to 17h00. All meals are prepared and served by trained professionals that share a passion for quality and service.

Conference and business facilities

Not only are the rooms and surrounds ideal for family getaways or romantic weekends, but the amenities also ensure that our corporate guests have the ideal venue for their conferences, meetings, product launches or training seminars. The venues are even ideal for events, such as wedding receptions or elegant birthday bashes. Different capacities are accommodated in air-conditioned environments and the audiovisual equipment is available for the convenience of our guests. Refreshments for delegates may be served at Huberta Restaurant. Additional facilities include safe on-site parking, shuttles and airport transfers, all set within the peace and serenity of the Eastern Cape.

Services

Guest services at Mpongo Private Game Reserve include:
  • Laundry service
  • Valet
  • Safe parking (on site)
  • Room service
  • Shuttles
  • Airport transfers
Game Drives

Guided game drives are conducted in open-air 4 x 4 vehicles, and last approximately three hours. These vehicles allow for maximum visibility while not negotiating on safety. In this way, guests have a far more intimate encounter with the many animals in the reserve. During this drive, guests will enjoy a picnic with light refreshments. Upon returning to the lodge, a breakfast, lunch or dinner will be served at Huberta.

Should guests prefer to drive their vehicle through the reserve during their own time, they are welcome to do so.

Recreation and attractions

At the Mpongo Private Game Reserve:
  • Game drives
  • Bird watching
  • Trips to the touch farm
  • Swimming pool
In East London:
  • Shopping
  • Historical buildings
  • Museums
  • Many safe and beautiful swimming beaches
Location

Mpongo Private Game Reserve is situated 35 kilometres from the coastal town of East London and a mere 40 kilometres from its airport. From East London, follow the N6 right to the entrance of the reserve.

Directions
From the Beacon Bay circle, turn left/right onto the Friendly N6, travel for 28kms, passing Newlands and Ducats on your left. Look out for the Mpongo sign on your left and turn left onto St Luke's Road for 7km. From Johannesburg, you will pass Maclean Town, 4km after you will turn right onto Mpongo for 7kms.