A Legacy of Conservation and Luxury

In 1986, Johann Roode purchased a farm named Moria, initially intended as grazing land for his Bonsmara cattle. His vision, however, soon evolved. As his herd grew, Johann acquired a second parcel of land, Drakensig. Within a year, he recognised the potential for something far greater than cattle farming. With a passion for conservation and a love for the African wilderness, Johann shifted his focus to ecotourism, and thus, Kapama was born.

From Vision to Reality

Johann’s dream was to create a sanctuary dedicated to the preservation of this breathtaking region. Construction began in 1989, and today, Buffalo Camp stands on what was once the Moria farm. Kapama has since flourished into a wildlife haven, embodying Johann’s commitment to conservation and luxury. Tragically, Johann passed away in 2002, but his legacy lives on. Under the stewardship of his son, Bernard Roode, Kapama has become the largest family-owned reserve in the area, a testament to Johann’s enduring vision.

Expansion and Evolution

Kapama’s journey didn’t stop there. The reserve expanded with the acquisition of additional land, including the significant parcels of Gwalagwala and Hongonyi. These areas have been transformed into two of Kapama’s crown jewels: the contemporary Southern Camp and the luxurious flagship, Kapama Karula. Each development reflects a blend of ecological stewardship and unparalleled elegance, ensuring that Kapama remains at the forefront of ultra-luxury safari experiences.

Today, Kapama Private Game Reserve stands as a beacon of conservation, luxury, and family heritage. It continues to thrive, offering guests an extraordinary safari experience in the heart of the African bush, where the legacy of Johann Roode lives on in every detail.

Year-Round Safari Splendour

Kapama Private Game Reserve is a wilderness like nowhere else. No matter the season, Kapama offers exceptional game-viewing experiences. From the notorious Big Five and Little Five, to the Magnificent 7 of the South African plant world – seven iconic tree species that embody the spirit of the South African savanna, ensure that every guest’s safari experience is enriched with incredible sightings. Here’s what you can expect throughout the year

Summer (December to February)

South African summers are warm and vibrant, with daytime temperatures soaring up to 42°C and dropping to a comfortable 20°C at night. This is the rainy season, with Kapama receiving about 550mm of rainfall annually. The lush, verdant landscape comes to life, watering holes fill to the brim, and the bush teems with newborn animals. The dense vegetation during summer offers a spectacular backdrop for game drives, making it a prime time for wildlife enthusiasts and photographers.

Winter (June – August)

The winter months bring cooler, more temperate weather, with daytime highs around 26°C and nighttime lows reaching 8°C. Despite the cooler temperatures, winter at Kapama is truly extraordinary. The dry season means animals are more likely to gather around the remaining water sources, making game viewing exceptionally rewarding. The clear skies and crisp air provide perfect conditions for morning and evening safaris, ensuring breathtaking wildlife sightings.

Spring (September to November) and Autumn (March – May)

Spring and autumn offer a delightful middle ground, with day and night temperatures ranging from 12°C to 28°C. These transitional seasons are characterised by moderate weather, making it an ideal time for those who prefer milder temperatures. The landscape undergoes subtle transformations, with spring bringing a burst of new life and autumn showcasing the rich, golden hues of the African bush.