Hartenbos Private Game Lodge, Hartenbos

About This Property

Hartenbos Private Game Lodge is a privately owned 4-star game lodge in the Hartenbos/Mossel Bay area of the Garden Route, set in a malaria-free Fynbos environment. It is around 15 minutes from Mossel Bay and approximately 40 minutes from George Airport, making it a convenient safari stop when travelling along the Garden Route.

The reserve is home to a varied collection of wildlife, including lion, rhino, buffalo, hippo, giraffe, zebra, eland, golden wildebeest and more than 25 species of antelope. Smaller predators include caracal, black-backed jackal, bat-eared fox and civet, while the area is also particularly good for bird watching.

Accommodation is offered in two Luxury Villas, four Luxury Glamping Tents and two Family Luxury Tents. The villas accommodate up to four guests across two bedrooms, with a central living area, kitchenette, dining space and private deck. The luxury tents accommodate two guests and have en-suite bathrooms, kitchenettes and private decks, while the family tents have two bedrooms and accommodate up to four.

The safari experience centers on guided game drives in 4x4 vehicles. Morning drives depart at 07:00 and include coffee, tea and rusks, while afternoon drives depart at 16:00 and include drinks and snacks during the drive. Each drive lasts approximately two hours.

The lodge has a relaxed atmosphere, with a swimming pool, lounge areas and sun downer deck overlooking the surrounding hills, valleys and Outeniqua Mountains. Breakfast and dinner can be prepared by the in-house chef, with meals served in the dining area or, where arranged, on a private deck.

A particularly attractive feature is the combination of luxury glamping and genuine wildlife experiences. It is a relatively intimate property rather than a large commercial safari resort, making it better suited to travelers looking for a quieter and more personal Garden Route safari.

The lodge is also well positioned for combining safari with Mossel Bay’s beaches and activities, including restaurants, shark diving, fishing, skydiving and helicopter experiences.

Overall, I would describe Hartenbos Private Game Lodge as a comfortable, intimate and accessible Garden Route safari option, particularly suitable for travelers who want Big Five wildlife and a bush experience without travelling to a malaria area or a remote safari destination.