Rippon's Safari Lodge is a new and exciting landmark in the Eastern Cape, one of South Africa's top malaria-free game viewing areas - a lodge where down-to-earth affordable luxury and a respect for the environment go hand in hand - right in the centre of some of the best game viewing regions around.

Historic Rippon's Safari Lodge, originally a settlers' farm, dating from the late 1800s, is perfectly located right next to the spectacular Shamwari Game Reserve. In all there are 12 guest rooms in beautifully-refurbished buildings set in the midst of fabulous gardens, right on the doorstep of South Africa's bush, where the "Big Five" are among the animals you are likely to spot during one of your twice-daily game drives.

Good home-cooked food, a relaxing family atmosphere, sunny swimming pools and shady verandah - visit Rippon's and relax like you never have before. Rippon's Safari Lodge is exceptionally child friendly.

Rippon's Safari Lodge has a total of 12 guest rooms in buildings set around fabulous gardens of serious historical interest.

The main house where you will find the comfortable bar, lounges and dining room, also has two particularly spacious and luxurious duplex suites. Each has two en-suite bedrooms, a sitting room, and is capable of sleeping five people.

And if you are on holiday without children you could opt for one of the seven adult-only twin or double rooms in the fabulous Long Barn, once the main sheep-shearing building, with spectacular views over the valley and waterhole with its resident hippo.

Just a few paces from the Long Barn there's the fabulous long swimming pool, ideal for soaking up the sun, one of two pools on the property.

Your stay at Rippon's Safari Lodge includes 3 meals daily.

After an early morning game drive, a sumptuous breakfast is waiting to satisfy your appetite.

Lunch is a satisfying buffet of simple home-cooked fare with choices ranging from wholesome soups and healthy salads with cold meats and cheeses to more substantial dishes if you prefer. Alternatively, how about a picnic under a shady tree in Rippon's beautiful garden? Your basket will be individually prepared and ready, you even get a menu detailing the food on offer. And just order the drinks you want and they will be chilling in your personal ice box.

After a later afternoon / evening game drive, enjoy a super dinner either in the dining room or, depending on the weather, barbecue-style outside on the terrace.

A night-cap in the bar or the cosy lounge with its open fireplace after dinner, maybe, and then it's back to your comfortable room or suite for an early night to recharge your batteries ready for tomorrow's adventures.

• Guided twice daily game drives
• Guided game walks
• Swimming and sunbathing
• Relaxation

Rippon's is one of the few game lodges in South Africa's Eastern Cape area which, while ideal for adults, also caters for children of all ages. The lodge, until recently a private house belonging to the local vet, has no fewer than five guest suites specifically designed to cater specifically for families.

This the old Vet's Clinic, set in Rippon's beautiful gardens, is just a few steps from the "Kids' Kraal", a fully-staffed and enclosed children's area with its own play house and plenty of fun and an extensive programme of educational activities for children of all ages.

Rates are quoted per room per night and include 14% VAT. Child 3-14yrs charged 50% of adult rate, while children under 3 years stay free of charge.

Rates include: Accommodation, Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Teas / Coffees, Game Walks, Game Drives.

Rates exclude: Bar Bill, Telephone calls, Laundry, Gratuities.