Schotia Safaris Private Game Reserve

• Schotia Safaris is situated in the Eastern Cape of South Africa, near the town of Paterson, and bordering the eastern side of Addo Elephant National Park. • It holds the distinction of being the oldest private game‐viewing reserve in the Eastern Cape. • The land originally was a farm (the Bean family have run/owned the original “Orlando” farm since the early 1800’s). • Notably, Schotia was the first reserve in the Cape Province to have free‐roaming lions. • The reserve is malaria‐free (important for visitors not wanting to deal with the risk). 2 • The reserve is described as “probably the most densely stocked reserve in Africa” with over 40 mammal species and approximately 2,000 animals. • Key species you can expect to encounter: o Lions (very high likelihood) – due to the free‐roaming lion policy. o Elephants, buffalo, rhinos, giraffes, hippos, crocodiles, wildebeest, a variety of antelope species. • The habitat is varied: bush, thicket, open plains and waterholes, making wildlife sightings reliable throughout the year. • You’ll board an open safari‐vehicle (4×4, open Land Rover style) guided by an experienced ranger who knows the reserve well. • There are special safari offerings like the “Tooth & Claw” drive—an afternoon into night game drive, followed by dinner and maybe a spotlight night drive. • Game drive 14h30–17h00, break for tea/coffee, continue 17h30–18h30, dinner in open‐air lapa, then night drive around 20h00–21h30. • Overnight stays include tented camps or lodge‐style accommodation within the reserve, with early morning or pre‐breakfast drives offered. • Dinner is typically served under an open‐air lapa (a large, thatched structure open to the skies) around a log fire. Traditional South African fare is often on the menu. • Malaria‐free reserve: one less worry for many international visitors. • Bordering Addo Elephant National Park gives it a strong wildlife emphasis and the benefit of proximity to a major conservation area. • Good for photography and for visitors keen on spotting the Big Five and more. One review noted the guides’ enthusiasm and ability to spot animals as a highlight. • While sightings are strong, they are not guaranteed (as is common with any wildlife experience). For example, one review noted they did not spot lions on a drive. • Bring appropriate gear: hat, sunblock, camera, binoculars, warm jacket for night drives. Night drives tend to be cooler after sunset. • Since it’s a private reserve, the experience can feel more guided than self‐drive in large parks — which is good for viewing but some guests may prefer more open, self‐drive freedom. • The “Tooth & Claw” night drive option is more immersive for animal spotting (especially predators) but is longer and starts in the afternoon. • For accommodation: choose whether you want just a day/afternoon visit or stay overnight to get the full bush experience (morning drives, night drives, etc.). • Schotia offers a convenient safari destination for those staying around the Addo/Port Elizabeth region — shorter drive time compared to some larger remote reserves. • Focus on quality guided experience in malaria‐free bush with good chances of spotting lions and other major animals. • The combination of strong wildlife density, good infrastructure (lodge, dining, night drives) makes it appealing for both first‐time safari goers and families.