Lake Eland Game Reserve: Where Families Discover the Wild

In 2003, brothers Eric and Trevor Dunstone purchased a piece of land near the famous Oribi Gorge covering 2500 hectares. They bought the land for conservation and named it Lake Eland Game Reserve after the lake shaped like the local antelope. Over the past twenty-three years, what began as a symbolic space has been transformed into one of the most loved family getaway destinations on KwaZulu-Natal’s South Coast. With diverse ecosystems including bushveld, grasslands, coastal forests, and wetlands, and an abundance of wildlife, parents travelling with their children can enjoy an unforgettable stay in one of South Africa’s premier holiday destinations. At Lake Eland, peace and tranquillity are simply part of every family holiday.

Comfortable Stays for the Whole Family

For many past guests, Lake Eland Game Reserve has become a beloved destination. Every aspect of the reserve, from accommodation to dining and activities, has been carefully curated to create precious memories for the whole family.

Accommodation comes in many forms at the reserve, from chalets to rustic campsites, ensuring that every family can find what they are looking for during their holiday.

The Family Home offers parents and children the perfect lodging for a comfortable stay. Accommodating up to six guests, the house is located close to the reception area, meaning that in the case of an emergency, management is nearby, ensuring a peaceful state of mind. Families will also find that the fishing dam, restaurant, and playground are located close to this spacious accommodation.

For larger groups, the Park Home is a rustic eight-sleeper home situated near the swimming pool, fishing dam, and restaurant. Its outdoor braai area allows for family dinners, while its fully-equipped kitchen supports a self-catering stay.

Just above the campsites at the lake, the Fisherman Cottages offer a close-to-camping experience for families. The cottages are unfurnished, with no linen or cutlery provided, so guests need to bring their essentials with them.

While Lake Eland Game Reserve offers many types of accommodation, guests who love connecting with the outdoors in a more personal way will adore the campsites. Fishing enthusiasts and nature lovers have often found themselves drawn to the lake. Here, with the communal braai and covered area, spending utility time together is easy, while the lake allows for fun days outside.

While these accommodation options suit a range of family stays, Lake Eland offers something for everyone.

Dining and Fun-Filled Activities for All Ages

While their stellar accommodation sets the foundation for an unforgettable holiday, dining is one of the few ways that allows parents and children to sit back and relax.

The reserve features both an indoor dining area and an outdoor deck, so no matter the weather, families can sit together and enjoy a delicious meal. The menu has been specially designed by the executive chef, offering diners a simple yet diverse selection of flavours and dishes such as their famous giant burgers.

At Lake Eland Game Reserve, no getaway is complete without a range of activities to pass the time. From mountain biking to fishing, there is something to suit the whole family.