South Africa Safaris and Tours

Giant's Castle Game Reserve, in the central region of the Ukhahlamba Drakensberg Park, takes its name from the silhouette of the peaks and escarpment that resemble the profile of a sleeping giant.

The historic Giant's Castle Game Reserve, home of the Eland and the majestic Bearded Vulture, lies in the Central Berg region of the Ukhahlamba Drakensberg Park, a World Heritage Site.

A visit to Giant's Castle offers guests the privilege of entering the remarkable world of the San as well as the opportunity to study a varied and exciting range of habitats.

The San Art Museum ('Main Cave') is a gentle 30 minute walk from the main camp while the grasslands, marshy areas, indigenous forests and many other energy flow ecosystems are easily accessible.

Eland antelope and Chacma Baboons are commonly seen while Mountain Reedbuck are occasionally spotted. Guests can sample local cuisine at the Vulture Restaurant where views of the Bearded Vulture [Lammergeyer] as well as other raptors can be seen. Giant's Castle camp is situated on a gassy plateau among the deep valleys running down from the face of the High Drakensberg, offering glorious views for hikers and mountain climbers.

Superb rock art is high among the areas' special attractions. Visits to the Main Caves Museum awards visitors with fascinating insight into the past lifestyle of the San people. Giant's consists of 4 mountain huts, 3 of which are situated just below the main escarpment. The huts can accommodate 8 people and provide opportunities to explore various passes onto the top of the Drakensberg range. The fourth mountain hut is situated lower down on a ridge overlooking meander valleys and accommodate 4 people.

My Suitcase

A host of activities can be enjoyed at the Giant Castle Game Reserve, but mostly the area is renowned for its splendid game and breathtaking views. Facilities at the reserve include a shop sells a wide range of curios and supplies, an exquisite restaurant and a cosy pub.

The camp at Giant Castle Game Reserve consists of 37 two-bed-chalets with en-suite bathroom, 4 4-bed chalets with 2 bedrooms and 4 6-bed chalets featuring 3 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms. All chalets are equipped with a lounge/dining area and a fully appointed kitchen. Unit number 8, known as 'Bride's Bush' has a double bed, a very private setting with a lovely view of the mountains which makes it an ideal honeymoon suite.

Rock Lodge boasts a magnificent honeymoon suite built into the side of a massive rock and all 3 twin-bed bedrooms feature luxurious en-suite facilities. The lodge provides satellite TV and a resident cook that prepares excellent meals with food supplied by the guests. Izimbali restaurant and bar provides guests with the option of fully catered meals in its warm and relaxed atmosphere.

Overnight accommodation for scholars is available at the nearby Wagondrift Nature Reserve Education Centre. Facilities at Giant Castle Game Reserve include a shop that sells a wide range of curios and supplies, a restaurant and a pub.