Within easy reach of South Africa’s sunny coastline, &Beyond Kwandwe is an ideal malaria-free safari destination. The Reserve flanks both the north and south banks of the Great Fish River, which meanders for 30 km (19 miles) through this pristine, private wilderness where the Big Five once again roams freely.

Kwandwe’s vast landscape is affected by the ocean, with south-facing slopes capturing moisture from the sea breezes resulting in denser or taller vegetation and brightly coloured lichens. In contrast, the north-facing slopes tend to be drier and more open and feature striking aloes, which flower in spectacular profusion during the winter months (June to August). Forest-like thickets of tree euphorbia grow on the steep, south-facing slopes. These spiny plants are immune to destruction from most animal species (except the black rhino) thanks to the poisonous milky latex they exude.

The wide open spaces and tranquil scenery belie the area's turbulent history, and relics of the area's rich historical and cultural legacy can be found both on the reserve and nearby. At an additional cost, guests can spend time with Kwandwe’s resident historian and raconteur, Alan Weyer, and learn all about the history of the Eastern Cape, with insightful visits to ancient San (Bushman) rock art sites and neighbouring forts and military towns, such as Fort Beaufort and Grahamstown. This is the ultimate historic Big Five safari.