Schotia Safaris is the oldest private game viewing reserve in the Eastern Cape, bordering on the eastern side of the Addo Elephant National Park. This malaria free reserve was the first Reserve in the Cape Province to have Free Roaming Lions. Lion sightings are guaranteed on 999 out of every 1000 drives.

The Reserve is owned, managed and run “Hands On” by the owners, the Bean family. We are now in our 6th Generation and have owned the original farm, Orlando since the early 1800’s. Since our establishment in 1982, we have created a very unique, relaxed and truly South African Safari Experience at Schotia.

There are approximately 1000 animals and over 30 species on the reserve. The wildlife introduction process started in 1982 and will continue until the reserve is fully stocked with a variety of animals that are suited to the habitat. The main objective at Schotia is to present a product to our guests that will give them an idea of what Africa used to look like when the Europeans arrived.

Schotia has a huge open air Lapa, possibly the largest in South Africa. It has reed and sneeze wood walls and is open to the skies, except for the outer edge where the dining tables are arranged. This outer ring is covered in thatch, soon to be replaced with cement as thatch is too susceptible to fire.

Inside the Lapa are several huge Schotia trees and log fires. Dinner is usually a mix of safari cuisine and traditional South African cooking. Just a short 35 minute drive from Port Elizabeth, don’t miss the unique experience that is Schotia Safaris.