Wine, Wildlife, and the Bush Experience

If you’re headed down Route 62 to Oudtshoorn and Buffelsdrift Game Lodge, do yourself a favour- build in some time to enjoy the many fantastic Klein Karoo wineries you’ll pass on the way. Offering a delightful treat for the tongue, it’s a unique taste of Africa you’ll remember forever.

Klein Karoo Wines

Did you know that the Klein Karoo Wine Route, officially part of the Southern Cape, is one of the most diverse wine regions in South Africa (and possibly the world)? It’s unusual to be able to grow vines successfully this far east in the country, but some of South Africa’s most spectacular wines are born here.With the looming presence of so many achingly beautiful mountain ranges, there’s plenty of fertile alluvial soil along the riverbanks. While it’s a little drier than the average wine-producing regions, this means hardy, healthy vines and organic growing techniques are a given.The Karoo has always been known for unique microclimates, and this means there’s a startling variety of quality wines and spirits made in the region. Many of our best pot stills and wineries are nestled along Route 62 to Oudtshoorn, Montagu, and Outeniqua, so there’s plenty to explore. Dry wines, fortified wines, and delicious brandies are waiting for you to discover them. In fact, South Africa’s champion Muscadel originates from this area! Full-bodied shiraz, and easy-drinking rose play well together. Calitzdorp brings you a unique dry wine grown from traditional Portuguese cultivars you’ll find nowhere else, hence the popularity of the so-called Calitzdorp blend.

Experience the Oudtshoorn Hospitality

But great wines and spirits aren’t all Garden Route safari lodges like Buffelsdrift have to offer. Every step of the journey, you’ll find spectacular views, intense wildlife experiences, and the delicious cuisine that’s put the Karoo on the culinary map. Plus, of course, the warmth and hospitality the region is famous for!The Klein Karoo Wine Route is an experience like no other, and a once-in-a-lifetime experience for wine lovers. Weekend getaways from Cape Town to explore the diversity and delicious tastes of the region couldn’t be simpler.Did you know that this is also the home of Karusa Wine Estate? One of the best wine estates close to Buffelsdrift Game Lodge, they’ve also become famous for the hospitality of their lunches, so come hungry! Nestled in the tranquil Schoemanshoek area, they’re perfectly positioned for a stop-over on the way to the Cango Caves, or just to enjoy the rich hospitality, Cap Classique, and Mediterranean-style wines they offer. There’s also a Craft Brewery on-site for beer drinkers! Family-owned and operated, we’re proud to recommend this lovely spot for visitors to the lodge to enjoy.With tingling tongues, full stomachs, relaxed souls, and happy hearts, you can roll home to the welcoming arms of Buffelsdrift Game Lodge when you’re done. Whether you head straight to the spa for a massage, hop out on one of our famous nocturnal game drives, or simply relax in your accommodation until dinner on the watering-hole deck, you’ll get to experience the understated luxury and warm welcome that’s made us one of the best luxury safari lodges in South Africa. We look forward to welcoming you soon!