About
HillsNek is ideal for families, or those seeking a Big Five safari within reach of the Garden Route. It sits handsomely beside the Bushman's River in a secluded corner of Amakhala Game Reserve, which is only 40 miles east of Port Elizabeth. Amakhala is malaria-free and intimate HillsNek includes a special family tent. It also boasts a lovely pool and delicious food.
Accommodation
Four private safari canvas safari tents – including the family tent – connect to the main lodge via raised wooden walkways. This raised position means superb views from each one’s patio, or indeed from the large ball-and-claw bathtub, as the windows can be lifted. King-size beds, outdoor showers and private-dining spaces for candlelit dinners are found in all four, while that family unit has an extra bedroom.
Facilities
Bush-style dinners can be also be devoured at the main lodge, inside or out on a sprawling game-viewing deck. The pool is located here too, and the bar faces the same way; spectacular sunsets make a perfect time for something alcoholic. Or go out there later, and spy the Milky Way. If it gets chilly, a lounge and crackling log fire await inside.
Activities
Game drives with a devoted private ranger depart twice-daily in 4x4 safari vehicles. You can expect to see lion, vast elephant herds, giraffe, cheetah and white and black rhino. Guided bush walks outside the Big Five area are also possible, as are canoeing and river cruises, bird watching, rhino-tracking, stargazing and visits to the wildlife-protecting Born Free Foundation.
Child Policy
Youngsters are very welcome, hence the family tent, with kid-friendly menus and free ‘Ranger Bags’ for those below 11. However, note that children aged 6-11 may only undertake game drives at the staff’s discretion, toddlers can only join drives with a sole-use vehicle and anyone under 12 must share tents with their parents.
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When you book a holiday with us we will provide full driving instructions for reaching your accommodation, where necessary; these can be used by yourself, or you could enjoy the luxury of a driver. Alternatively we will arrange private (car rather than coach) transfers for you; helicopter transfers are also possible for some destinations.
