Southern Africa is probably best known for the fact that we have the Big Five and of course, our absolutely incredible landscapes and scenery.

But there are also some really cool and quirky creatures that simply have to be seen.  The aardvark is probably one of the most odd looking of these unusual creatures.  The aardvark is a medium-sized, burrowing, nocturnal mammal native to Africa.  It has a long pig-like snout, which is used to sniff out food.  It subsists on ants and termites, which it will dig out of their hills using its sharp claws and powerful legs. It also digs to create burrows in which to live and rear its young.  Aardvarks usually wait until dark before they emerge from their burrows. Their night-time travels average one to three miles but can range up to eighteen miles a night!

Samara Private Game Reserve is proud to be home of many Aardvark and is one of very few places in South Africa where you can spot the elusive Aardvark.  Samara will whisk you off just after dark or after dinner and include Aardvark viewing together with your evening game drives.  Check out our website to watch a video on Samara’s aardvark!  http://www.thompsonsafrica.com

SAMARA PRIVATE GAME RESERVE
THE GREAT KAROO – LUXURY GAME LODGE

This five star lodge is situated in the malaria-free Eastern Cape where time stands still. Surrounded by 70 000 protected acres in the Great Karoo, be inspired by the conservation projects where every effort is being made to preserve global biodiversity in this unique environment.

Karoo Lodge accommodates up to 18 guests in luxury Karoo cottages or en-suite rooms in the colonial homestead. The exclusive use Manor at Samara offers total privacy for up to 8 guests in 4 luxury double, en-suite rooms. Magical dining options such as lunch in the river or a mountain top picnic enjoying delectable Karoo food.  Children of all ages are welcome with loads of fun on offer.

Your professional guides will introduce you to the endangered cheetah and Cape Mountain Zebra as well as the elusive aardvark among other game. Explore the untouched Plains of Camdeboo viewing magnificent herds of antelope or gaze in awe at these plains from the mountain top.