Stretching from the semi-arid Karoo area in the north around Darlington Dam, over the rugged Zuurberg Mountains, through the Sundays River valley and south to the coast between Sundays River mouth and Bushman’s River mouth, Addo covers about 180 000 hectares (444 700 acres) and includes the Bird and St Croix Island groups.
The original elephant section of the park was proclaimed in 1931, when only sixteen elephants remained in the area. Today this finely tuned ecosystem is sanctuary to over 550 elephants, lions, buffalo, black rhino, spotted hyena, leopard, a variety of antelope and zebra species, as well as the unique Addo flightless dung beetle, found almost exclusively in Addo.
River Bend Lodge – Now the third largest national park in South Africa, Addo Elephant National Park has expanded to conserve a wide diversity of biodiversity, landscapes, fauna and flora.
Book 3 nights or more and receive a free return transfer from Port Elizabeth!!
River Bend Lodge Accommodation
Luxury Suite
The Lodge’s beautiful seven luxury double suites are spacious and individually decorated in a colonial style. Each of the suites has an en-suite bathroom and leads out onto a private patio which offers majestic views of the Eastern Cape landscape.
River Bend’s central philosophy is to retain a standard of living that those who understand five star luxury typically would expect. All our suites are beautifully and tastefully appointed in accordance with our “Five Star Plus” rating.
River Bend is “Five Star Plus”. All suites are air-conditioned. Our king size beds use percale linen for that extra luxury demanded by our guests. Rooms are equipped with ceiling fans, electronic safes, a mini bar, satellite TV and hair dryer. The en-suite bathroom has a separate bath and shower and is fully stocked with all the typical amenities guests would require.
Suites with inter-leading doors are available for families.
WiFi access is available in all rooms.
Honeymoon Suite
The Honeymoon Suite offers newlyweds the perfect romantic and private retreat. The lavish suite leads out onto its own private veranda and secluded plunge pool and garden. Spend the day reading a book or enjoy uninterrupted romantic candle-lit dinners on the private veranda which faces the African bushveld. The en-suite bathroom also has an outside shower for the more adventurous.
The Honeymoon Suite offers a luxury and an indulgence that will draw couples together in a perfect setting for the romantic getaway of a lifetime.
The Honeymoon Suite is equipped with its own Nespresso coffee maker, for those who wish to lie in bed a little longer in the morning!
River Bend Lodge Facilities
The individual suites surround a magnificent garden containing indigenous trees that date back to the original settler days.
The main Lodge area offers the formal dining room, “Silverthorns”, a comfortable lounge, bar and library. A tranquil Day Room offers a more informal environment and is equipped with a TV and selection of DVD’s for all ages.
There is a fully fenced swimming pool that offers a cool retreat on a warm summer’s day.
The Lodge offers “River Bend Mobile Playrooms” which comprise age appropriate toys and playthings for your little ones, and also the not so little ones.
The Plumbago Spa has a variety of massage treatments and beauty therapies to be enjoyed by resident guests only.
The Lodge also has a small business centre for those who cannot leave the office!
River Bend Lodge Cuisine
Restaurant
Established in 2000, River Bend Lodge set out to follow a standard of cuisine not normally associated with the South African game lodge experience. “Excellent, contemporary and world class” were established as the benchmarks for culinary offerings at River Bend.
Recently renovated, “Silver Thorns Restaurant” is available to our guests only and is a unique destination restaurant which showcases the culinary offerings of River Bend.
In keeping with the theme that guests determine their own daily agenda, we also offer an In Room Dining menu for those who either do not want a full meal or whom simply want a little snack at odd hours.
At River Bend we are mindful that some guests have specific dietary and religious requirements and these are accommodated accordingly. (Advance notice is required)
River Bend Lodge Activities
Birding
Birding
Due to our unique climatic area and 5 different biomes, River Bend is home to over 300 bird species – an extensive list by any expert’s standards. Our guides are all trained bird watchers and should you wish to spend the day away from the Lodge, our guides will take you on a private birding trip with a packed lunch.
River Bend is an important contributor to SA Bird Society and many first time sightings have been made by our specialist guides.
Food and Wine
Food and Wine
Learning about South African wine and being able to choose a suitable wine with one’s meal is an important supplement to one’s culinary experience. River Bend’s “Introduction to South African Wines” is a wine tasting and food pairing created by our executive chef and hosted by our very own resident wine enthusiast.
The tasting consists of a brief history and introduction to the wines of Southern Africa, the tasting of four wines and food pairing recommendations with canapés.
Game Drives
Game Drives
River Bend Lodge’s game drives are like no other. The Addo Park comprises 5 different biomes and each biome offers guests unique and individual experiences. Whether you’re marvelling at the magnificent elephant herds grazing a short distance from you on your private game drive, tracking the movements of game on foot to learning about the medicinal values of the bush and history of the land, there is never a dull moment.
River Bend Lodge is one of the few game reserves in the Eastern Cape where you can view the Big 5 all in one wilderness area.
At River Bend we provide separate game drives for families and where possible guest parties are hosted on their own game drive vehicles.
Photography
Photography
River Bend Lodge employs a full time photographer to help you get the best out of the photographic opportunities you will have during your stay.
Day Courses
Basic Introduction to photography:
“Going Beyond Auto”-This module is designed to teach you more about your camera and provide you with the technical and compositional skills required to capture wildlife photographs like a professional.
Editing and Manipulation
Using the pictures from your stay at River Bend Lodge, our photographer will provide you with a beginner’s introduction to the world of digital image manipulation using Photoshop CS5, Elements 8 and Lightroom 3 in his studio.
Practical Field Assistance
Our photographer will accompany you on a private game drive lead by one of our qualified guides to assist you with your choice of lens, settings, composition and positioning.
Photographic Workshop
River Bend Lodge is the perfect location for a photographic workshop. The Nyati concession on which River Bend is located is not open to the public, providing an uninterrupted and exclusive wildlife photography experience.
River Bend offers a 3 day and 2 night wildlife photography workshop for all levels of photographers.
Whether you are an amateur photographer looking to improve your wildlife photography skills or a professional wanting to spend a few days dedicated to your craft in the bush, this is an ideal workshop.
River Bend Lodge Spa
River Bend is home to the luxurious Plumbago Spa where guests can be treated to a variety of indulgent and pampering treatments. After a treatment with our skilled therapist you will leave our haven feeling totally rejuvenated.
The Plumbago Spa offers a wide range of treatments such as Full Body Massages, Pregnancy Massages, and Kiddies Manis and Pedis.
Plumbago Spa uses only the finest products from Lillian Terry, OPI and Ahava.
River Bend Lodge Rates
Price starting from R 6 600 per room per night.
Rates are inclusive of:
• VAT, Tourism, SANparks levies;
• Accommodation;
• All meals, tea, coffee, soft drinks, house wine;
• Sparkling wine, locals beers and spirits;
• Two game drives per day;
• Children’s Mini-Rangers;
• Photographic basics (Booking essential);
• Wine tasting evening (Booking essential);
• Long Hope Villa includes Private Chef & Guide
Rates are exclusive of:
• Premium wines, champagne;
• Cognac, premium brand spirits;
• Spa treatments;
• Laundry;
• Shop purchases;
• Airport transfers (available on request);
• Gratuities;
• Telephone calls.
River Bend Lodge Reviews
A wonderful stay in beautiful surroundings. Our room was elegant and comfortable and our meals were excellent. We thoroughly enjoyed the game drives under the excellent care of Darlington and would return again if ever possible. – williamdouglas2016
Had a wonderful stay and joyful safari drive with Igna. Managed to see the Big 5 in 2 days and the staff was always helpful. Delightful settings and excellent customer care. Food is excellent, and the chef’s create a new menu each night. – smitevan
River Bend Lodge was absolutely lovely. As adults we loved it, but what we found really exciting was how much our 2.5 year old enjoyed it. Darlington was a wonderful guide (all the staff were great) and he really made the drives feel inclusive for everyone. I would definitely recommend this place for couples and families. – andrewwQ9990XG
River Bend Lodge Enquiry Form
- Accommodation
River Bend Lodge Accommodation
Luxury Suite
The Lodge’s beautiful seven luxury double suites are spacious and individually decorated in a colonial style. Each of the suites has an en-suite bathroom and leads out onto a private patio which offers majestic views of the Eastern Cape landscape.
River Bend’s central philosophy is to retain a standard of living that those who understand five star luxury typically would expect. All our suites are beautifully and tastefully appointed in accordance with our “Five Star Plus” rating.
River Bend is “Five Star Plus”. All suites are air-conditioned. Our king size beds use percale linen for that extra luxury demanded by our guests. Rooms are equipped with ceiling fans, electronic safes, a mini bar, satellite TV and hair dryer. The en-suite bathroom has a separate bath and shower and is fully stocked with all the typical amenities guests would require.
Suites with inter-leading doors are available for families.
WiFi access is available in all rooms.
Honeymoon Suite
The Honeymoon Suite offers newlyweds the perfect romantic and private retreat. The lavish suite leads out onto its own private veranda and secluded plunge pool and garden. Spend the day reading a book or enjoy uninterrupted romantic candle-lit dinners on the private veranda which faces the African bushveld. The en-suite bathroom also has an outside shower for the more adventurous.
The Honeymoon Suite offers a luxury and an indulgence that will draw couples together in a perfect setting for the romantic getaway of a lifetime.
The Honeymoon Suite is equipped with its own Nespresso coffee maker, for those who wish to lie in bed a little longer in the morning!
- Facilities
River Bend Lodge Facilities
The individual suites surround a magnificent garden containing indigenous trees that date back to the original settler days.
The main Lodge area offers the formal dining room, “Silverthorns”, a comfortable lounge, bar and library. A tranquil Day Room offers a more informal environment and is equipped with a TV and selection of DVD’s for all ages.
There is a fully fenced swimming pool that offers a cool retreat on a warm summer’s day.
The Lodge offers “River Bend Mobile Playrooms” which comprise age appropriate toys and playthings for your little ones, and also the not so little ones.
The Plumbago Spa has a variety of massage treatments and beauty therapies to be enjoyed by resident guests only.
The Lodge also has a small business centre for those who cannot leave the office!
- Cuisine
River Bend Lodge Cuisine
Restaurant
Established in 2000, River Bend Lodge set out to follow a standard of cuisine not normally associated with the South African game lodge experience. “Excellent, contemporary and world class” were established as the benchmarks for culinary offerings at River Bend.
Recently renovated, “Silver Thorns Restaurant” is available to our guests only and is a unique destination restaurant which showcases the culinary offerings of River Bend.
In keeping with the theme that guests determine their own daily agenda, we also offer an In Room Dining menu for those who either do not want a full meal or whom simply want a little snack at odd hours.
At River Bend we are mindful that some guests have specific dietary and religious requirements and these are accommodated accordingly. (Advance notice is required)
- Activities
River Bend Lodge Activities
Birding
Birding
Due to our unique climatic area and 5 different biomes, River Bend is home to over 300 bird species – an extensive list by any expert’s standards. Our guides are all trained bird watchers and should you wish to spend the day away from the Lodge, our guides will take you on a private birding trip with a packed lunch.
River Bend is an important contributor to SA Bird Society and many first time sightings have been made by our specialist guides.
Food and Wine
Food and Wine
Learning about South African wine and being able to choose a suitable wine with one’s meal is an important supplement to one’s culinary experience. River Bend’s “Introduction to South African Wines” is a wine tasting and food pairing created by our executive chef and hosted by our very own resident wine enthusiast.
The tasting consists of a brief history and introduction to the wines of Southern Africa, the tasting of four wines and food pairing recommendations with canapés.
Game Drives
Game Drives
River Bend Lodge’s game drives are like no other. The Addo Park comprises 5 different biomes and each biome offers guests unique and individual experiences. Whether you’re marvelling at the magnificent elephant herds grazing a short distance from you on your private game drive, tracking the movements of game on foot to learning about the medicinal values of the bush and history of the land, there is never a dull moment.
River Bend Lodge is one of the few game reserves in the Eastern Cape where you can view the Big 5 all in one wilderness area.
At River Bend we provide separate game drives for families and where possible guest parties are hosted on their own game drive vehicles.
Photography
Photography
River Bend Lodge employs a full time photographer to help you get the best out of the photographic opportunities you will have during your stay.
Day Courses
Basic Introduction to photography:
“Going Beyond Auto”-This module is designed to teach you more about your camera and provide you with the technical and compositional skills required to capture wildlife photographs like a professional.
Editing and Manipulation
Using the pictures from your stay at River Bend Lodge, our photographer will provide you with a beginner’s introduction to the world of digital image manipulation using Photoshop CS5, Elements 8 and Lightroom 3 in his studio.
Practical Field Assistance
Our photographer will accompany you on a private game drive lead by one of our qualified guides to assist you with your choice of lens, settings, composition and positioning.
Photographic Workshop
River Bend Lodge is the perfect location for a photographic workshop. The Nyati concession on which River Bend is located is not open to the public, providing an uninterrupted and exclusive wildlife photography experience.
River Bend offers a 3 day and 2 night wildlife photography workshop for all levels of photographers.
Whether you are an amateur photographer looking to improve your wildlife photography skills or a professional wanting to spend a few days dedicated to your craft in the bush, this is an ideal workshop.
- Spa
River Bend Lodge Spa
River Bend is home to the luxurious Plumbago Spa where guests can be treated to a variety of indulgent and pampering treatments. After a treatment with our skilled therapist you will leave our haven feeling totally rejuvenated.
The Plumbago Spa offers a wide range of treatments such as Full Body Massages, Pregnancy Massages, and Kiddies Manis and Pedis.
Plumbago Spa uses only the finest products from Lillian Terry, OPI and Ahava.
- Rates
River Bend Lodge Rates
Price starting from R 6 600 per room per night.
Rates are inclusive of:
• VAT, Tourism, SANparks levies;
• Accommodation;
• All meals, tea, coffee, soft drinks, house wine;
• Sparkling wine, locals beers and spirits;
• Two game drives per day;
• Children’s Mini-Rangers;
• Photographic basics (Booking essential);
• Wine tasting evening (Booking essential);
• Long Hope Villa includes Private Chef & GuideRates are exclusive of:
• Premium wines, champagne;
• Cognac, premium brand spirits;
• Spa treatments;
• Laundry;
• Shop purchases;
• Airport transfers (available on request);
• Gratuities;
• Telephone calls.- Gallery
- Tripadvisor
River Bend Lodge Reviews
A wonderful stay in beautiful surroundings. Our room was elegant and comfortable and our meals were excellent. We thoroughly enjoyed the game drives under the excellent care of Darlington and would return again if ever possible. – williamdouglas2016
Had a wonderful stay and joyful safari drive with Igna. Managed to see the Big 5 in 2 days and the staff was always helpful. Delightful settings and excellent customer care. Food is excellent, and the chef’s create a new menu each night. – smitevan
River Bend Lodge was absolutely lovely. As adults we loved it, but what we found really exciting was how much our 2.5 year old enjoyed it. Darlington was a wonderful guide (all the staff were great) and he really made the drives feel inclusive for everyone. I would definitely recommend this place for couples and families. – andrewwQ9990XG
- Enquiry
River Bend Lodge Enquiry Form