Samara Karoo: A unique experience in conservation and wilderness

It is located in a vast area of South AfricaAmazing Karu, Samara Kalu Reserve It is a model for conservation and environmental restoration. Samara’s story is a unique story and is a passionate reconstruction project that began in 1997. Sarah and Mark Tompkins, founders of Samara, were inspired by the story of the wilderness, where millions of Springboks once wobbled, and where black men signed at the highest and highest. Over the course of five years, the couple purchased 11 farms totaling 27,000 hectares with the aim of reintroducing the land to its natural state and reintroducing wildlife that had been disappearing as a result of farming and hunting for centuries.

Supported through habitat recovery and animal reintroduction Ecotourismthey reintroduced the first cheetahs, black rhinoceros, elephants and lions that have lived on these lands for over a century, becoming one of South Africa’s major conservation destinations.

Samara Karu’s Conservation

At the heart of Samara’s mission is a deep commitment to conservation. The reserve implements a series of conservation programs that focus not only on animal species but also on rehabilitation of the land itself. Extensive measures have been taken to restore the landscape to its natural state, eradicate foreign plant species, restore native vegetation, and prevent soil erosion. As a result, the reserve has seen significant recovery in both its flora and fauna.

Reconstruction: Take home the lost seeds

The heart of Samara’s conservation strategy is to reintroduce species that once roamed the area but were forced to extinct in the wild. Over the past decades, Samara has focused on reintroduction of important species that play an important role in maintaining ecological harmony.

One of Samara’s most groundbreaking reintroductions was the reintroduction of cheetahs, a predator that has not been seen in the region for over a century. In 2004, a cheetah named Sibera moved to Samara. Surviving the savage attacks with the hands of hunters and hunters, Sibera thrives in Samara and continues to produce descendants that make up a significant portion of the South African cheetah population. Around 50 children were born in the sanctuary, and the sanctuary’s cheetah rewild programme was internationally recognized for its success in bringing these vulnerable cats back into the wild.

The 2014 Lion Return marked another milestone in Samara’s Rewild Program. The Lions have been absent from Great Kalu for nearly two centuries, but their reintroduction has proven to be an important step in restoring the balance between predators and plays. Lions not only regulate herbivore populations, but also help maintain the health of the reserve grasslands by controlling the number of glaser.

In 2017, the elephant returned to the landscape for the first time in an estimated 150 years, accompanied by the relocation of a small herd of six. The recent reintroduction of four additional elephants marks another milestone and helps establish elephant populations in newly opened parts of the reserve.

Black rhinoceros was reintroduced to Samara after a long absence, and the reserve has become one of the few places where guests can see this endangered species in their natural habitat. The Cape Mountain Zebra is another success story of Samara’s re-wild efforts. As it approaches extinction, this zebra species is now thriving within the reserve.

Samara’s Rewild is an ongoing project. The pressing plan to expand the sanctuary at an additional 4,000 hectares has opened up the possibility of adding iconic species such as brown hyenas and wild African dogs.

Other wildlife in Samara

With over 60 different mammal species in the reserve, guests are almost guaranteed to witness a very diverse wildlife. In addition to the so-called Big Fives (Lion, Elephant, Buffalo, Leopard, Rhino), Samara is home to Giraffe, Springbok, Black Wild Tee Beast, Eland, Kudu and more. You can also find some of the smaller, elusive African species, such as Pangolin, Aardvark, and Black Footed Cat. Certain special species, such as the Cape Vulture, have returned from their own agreements, which are evidence of the re-wild success of the reserve.

Samara Vegetation Biome

Samara is not only a heaven for wildlife, but also a place of extraordinary natural beauty and biodiversity. The reserve spans five of the nine vegetation biomes in South Africa, each offering a unique landscape and ecosystem.

There are mountain meadows that dominate the higher elevations of the reserve. A vast plains and gentle hills that provide home to pastors like Breathbok, Gemsbok and Zebra, and a blue crane of the endangered species, a South African national bird. Along the river valleys and undersides, subtropical bushes are found in dense, rich habitats of rhinoceros. Also here is Spekboom, a multipurpose Indigenous evergreen tree, a miraculous worker of the environment. Like other plants, they may tackle carbon emissions, removing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere, like carbon sponge.

With its open plains, tall grass and scattered trees, the Samara savanna has herbivores such as giraffes and buffaloes. In this dynamic ecosystem, predators like lions and cheetahs steal prey. The Nama Karu biome is characterized by flat plains and rocky outcrops. Perfect for safari and birdwatching, this area includes Hardy Springbok, Gems Bok and Steenbok. And finally, although the reserve forests, although relatively small, offer shaded areas, including wild olives and yellowwood, and abundant flora. It is a peaceful retreat for both wildlife and visitors, and home to monkeys and fruit bats in the velvet.

Community and Conservation

At the heart of Samara’s success is her commitment to the community. The reserve provides employment opportunities ranging from hospitality to conservation, ensuring locals benefit directly from tourism in the reserve. Samara’s training program also offers employment opportunities, ranging from guides and hospitality to wildlife monitoring.

Additionally, Samara Karu supports local schools through environmental education programs that promote a deeper understanding of wildlife and habitat, encouraging future generations to become wildlife advocates.

Visit Samara

Samara Kalu Private Reserve can be reached from Port Elizabeth (now known as Gqeberha) on a 3-hour drive or charter flight. The reserve is open all year round and has its own unique attractions each season, from spring flowers to winter wildlife sightings. Families are welcome. Activities can be adjusted to accommodate all ages.

Where to stay

Samara Karu Reserve offers a variety of accommodation options.

Carlo Lodge

This beautifully restored Farmhouse offers 10 suites including family options. All of these combine traditional Karu style with modern South African designs. The major renovations in 2023 focused on sustainability and expanded and upgraded the facility.

Manor House

The Manor is an elegant 4-suite villa and is reserved on an exclusive use basis. This is a good option for families and groups looking for privacy. It features four suites, a private 21m infinity pool and a dedicated team of staff. Guests can enjoy a personalized experience, from private dinners under the stars to tailored guided walks.

Star Bed

Sleeping under the stars on a raised platform overlooking the plains. The Milk River Samara Star Bed is the ultimate romantic wilderness experience. Arrived at sunset for a picnic dinner and drink, drifting over a slumbered sleep wrapped in a thick mohair blanket, taking in spectacular views while wildlife comes to drink from the river.

Plains Camp

Without Wi-Fi, electricity, or tech distractions, Plains Camp is an off-grid experience focusing on Safaris walking and reconnecting with nature. Located in a remote area of ​​a reserve with stunning views and abundant wildlife, this is a brand new ecotourism offering. Four deluxe tents sleep eight guests for a unique Explorer style experience.

Activities in Samara

A variety of activities are offered to help guests truly explore the beauty and wildlife of the reserve.

Game Drive

Leaded by an expert guide, Game Drive brings visitors deep into the sanctuary’s diverse habitats, offering sightings of both five big and small elusive species.

Walking Safari

For those looking for a closer experience on the land, Samara offers walking safaris. These guided tours allow guests to track animals on foot and experience the reserve’s wildlife up close.

Cheetah Tracking

Cheetah tracking is one of Samara’s signature experiences. Guests can follow these amazing predators through the reserve and observe hunting techniques and social behavior. An unforgettable experience.

Vision for the future

Sarah and Mark Tompkins, founders of Samara, imagine a future that is part of the wilderness corridor in which Samara flourished. The reserve is involved in a long-term initiative that connects Karu’s Camday National Park with Zebra National Park in the Mountains, opening up a historic migratory route and bringing more land back to nature.

Samara Karoo Private Game Reserve is a truly special destination, allowing guests to truly experience the robust and wild beauty of the great Karoo. With its incredible conservation efforts, wildlife reintroduction and stunning landscapes, Samara is a place where nature thrives. Not only does Samara offer an unforgettable experience, but by visiting the reserves, she supports the continued conservation of South Africa’s wildlife and helps her be part of an inspirational conservation story.

Sarah Kingdom

Sarah Kingdom is a travel writer from Sydney, Australia. When she is not climbing or traveling, she lives on a cattle ranch in central Zambia.