2011 COSTS FROM ONLY R 3,216 per adult sharing per night in Low Season
The incomparable thrill of quietly observing a passing herd of elephant while being served tea on the verandah of a stately Colonial manor house is the stuff of dreams and legends - at Gorah it’s an everyday occurrence. This exclusive safari lodge recaptures the romantic mystique of authentic safari of centuries past - the awesome natural world of Africa merged with colonial nostalgia and modern sophistication to deliver an unforgettably unique 5 star adventure. Gorah is a member of Relais & Chateaux.
LOCATION
Located in the heart of the Big 5 Addo Elephant National Park in the malaria-free Eastern Cape, Gorah was the first private concession ever awarded in a South African National Park. Near the Zuurberg mountain range in the dense, indigenous bushveld of the Sunday’s River Valley, the 14,000 hectare fenced park was proclaimed in 1931 to preserve the last remaining survivors of the once large herds of elephant that roamed the Eastern Cape. Hunted almost to extinction, these herds have gradually flourished and Addo now boasts the highest density of elephant on earth. It is also home to other big game such as lion, black rhino, buffalo and leopard, as well as numerous species of antelope and small game. For birding enthusiasts, Addo has 320 recorded bird species.
FACILITIES
Originally built in 1856, the Gorah House is a National Monument, fully restored to reflect the grace and glory of those times with elegant period furnishings instilling an ambience of comfort and opulence. Ensconced in armchairs around the original fireplaces of welcoming, comfy lounges, stories of the day’s adventures unfold. For those wishing to discover more about the region, there is a small library with a selection of reference books available.
The comings and goings of wildlife around the waterhole situated in front of the main verandah are a constant source of fascination. The natural rock swimming pool is the perfect place to beat the African heat, otherwise simply relax on the sun decks or in the shade of Gorah House’s porches and patios.
Delicious and lavish gourmet cuisine is served either in the elegant, softly lit dining rooms of the Main House or on the old-style verandah overlooking the waterhole or, weather permitting, under the stars in the open boma surrounded by the sounds of the African bush.
ACCOMMODATION
After the exhilaration of a game drive or walk, retreat into a romantic tented suite - a private bushveld sanctuary. Sheltered beneath thatched canopies, Gorah’s 11 tented suites are luxurious and spacious, recalling the golden era of safari in the early 1900s, and enhanced with the fine comforts and excellence associated with Hunter properties. Each luxury tent has an en-suite bathroom with shower, an interior relaxation area and a private deck offering panoramic views across the endless savannah plains. Other facilities include solar-powered lights, ceiling fans and in-house communication between the tents and the Main House.
GUIDELINE OF DAILY ACTIVITIES
The recommended check-in time at Gorah is around mid-day. Our sumptuous luncheon is served between 12h30 and 14h00, giving guests plenty of time to settle into their luxurious tented suites and familiarise themselves with Gorah’s gracious amenities before High Tea at 16h00. A Game Drive or Walk with an experienced guide is scheduled for 16h30. Before sitting down to dinner between seven-thirty and eight, enjoy a quiet pre-dinner drink on the verandah of Gorah House while soaking in the sights, smells and sounds of the African bush at twilight. You’re on African time - there is no rush.
Seize the day! Guests receive a discreet wake-up call at 07h00 and breakfast is served between 07h30 and 08h45, followed by the morning game drive or walk at 09h00. Day excursions to Addo Elephant Back Safaris for a walk with the elephants can be arranged. Guests are requested to check out by 12h00 on the day of departure.
CLIMATE
The region’s climate is pleasantly temperate with an annual rainfall of 450mm occurring throughout the year. Winters are chilly and summers are warm to hot. Days of sunshine are plentiful at Gorah. Although the weather is generally moderate, it is advisable to have a warm jacket, especially for game drives in open vehicles. Although charging facilities can be made available at Gorah, it is advisable to bring fully charged video camera batteries, shaver batteries, etc. Mobile phone reception is virtually non-existent.
