Mills Manor - (Lalibela Game Reserve, Eastern Cape)

(From Port Elizabeth International Airport (PLZ), 1 hr 2 min (94.8 km))

Lalibela Game Reserve is a premier safari destination nestled in the heart of the African bush, offering a luxurious and unforgettable experience in the scenic Eastern Cape. With six exquisite lodges to choose from—Kichaka Lodge, Lentaba Lodge, Mark's Camp, Tree Tops, Mills Manor, and Inzolo Lodge—Lalibela provides a unique blend of comfort, adventure, and immersion in nature. Each lodge features beautifully appointed thatched chalets that seamlessly blend into the surrounding landscape, creating a peaceful retreat where guests can reconnect with the natural world.

For those seeking the ultimate in exclusivity, Mills Manor stands out as a private, home-style villa ideal for families or small groups. This 100-year-old historic farmhouse combines Edwardian charm with modern luxury, featuring gables, high ceilings, spacious rooms, and a wide wrap-around veranda typical of the era. Perched on a hill overlooking a waterhole, Mills Manor offers continuous game viewing even when not on a drive, with regular visits from free-roaming Big Five and other wildlife species. Accommodating up to 10 guests, the villa includes five bedrooms—three king rooms and two king/twin rooms—all air-conditioned and designed with wide stack doors that open onto private verandas with stunning valley views.

Mills Manor provides an exclusive-use experience with a dedicated team, including a private safari guide and vehicle, a chef, and service staff, ensuring personalized and attentive service throughout the stay. The villa’s facilities are designed for relaxation and entertainment, boasting a well-stocked bar, a spacious lounge, a gracious dining room, and outdoor amenities such as a large swimming pool, sun deck, firepit, and barbecue area. The shady veranda offers a cool retreat between activities, enhancing the villa’s relaxed, home-away-from-home ambiance.

At Lalibela, guests enjoy thrilling game drives through the reserve, encountering elephants, lions, rhinos, and other remarkable wildlife species. Evenings are marked by delicious meals prepared by talented chefs, paired with a selection of drinks to complement the culinary experience.

Lalibela Game Reserve offers a luxurious safari adventure where guests can experience the magic of the African bush in style. Whether staying at Mills Manor for an exclusive, private getaway or at one of the other beautifully appointed lodges, guests are guaranteed an unforgettable experience filled with comfort, adventure, and breathtaking natural beauty.

Activities to enjoy:

Big Five Game Drives:
Embark on guided safaris to spot the Big Five—lion, leopard, elephant, rhino, and buffalo—as well as other wildlife like cheetah, hyena, and various antelope species.

Night Game Drives:
Explore the nocturnal side of the reserve with night drives, offering the chance to see elusive animals such as aardvark, bat-eared fox, and other nocturnal species.

Bird Watching:
With diverse ecosystems, Lalibela is a haven for bird enthusiasts, boasting a variety of bird species to observe from dedicated viewing decks or during game drives.