Founders Lodge by Mantis
Luxury safari lodge offering exclusive wildlife and conservation experiencesEastern Cape, South Africa
Located in the Eastern Cape, just an hour from Chief Dawid Stuurman International Airport , Founders Lodge by Mantis is an intimate 5-star safari retreat set in the birthplace of conservation. The lodge offers a blend of luxury hospitality, personalized service, and authentic South African cuisine within a private game reserve setting.
With only seven suites and a unique restored railway carriage, the lodge provides an exclusive and relaxed atmosphere ideal for couples, families, and small groups. Guests can enjoy exceptional wildlife viewing alongside a comfortable, immersive safari experience in the heart of Eastern Cape.
Room Types
- Founders Railway Carriage– A unique, restored train carriage offering a one-of-a-kind luxury stay with character and privacy.
- Master Suite -The most spacious and premium suite, ideal for guests seeking extra comfort and exclusivity.
- Heritage Suite– Designed with classic charm, reflecting the lodge’s conservation history and traditional style.
- Contemporary Suites -Modern and stylish suites with elegant interiors and views of the surrounding reserve.
- Honeymoon Pod -A romantic, private unit designed especially for couples seeking an intimate safari experience.
Dining at Founders Lodge is designed to be immersive and varied, combining great food with unique settings in the heart of Eastern Cape.
- 🍽️ Dining Experience
- Revolving dining locations – each meal is served in a different setting for a unique experience
- Formal dining room with fireplace for elegant indoor meals
- Casual terrace dining with scenic bush views
- Traditional boma dinners (BBQ under the stars)
- On-site picnic experiences in the reserve
- 🥂 Food & Drinks
- Authentic South African cuisine with local flavors
- Bar & billiards room for drinks and relaxation
- selection of
cocktails, wines (by the glass), aperitifs, and soft drinks
- 🥗 Special Features
- Vegetarian, gluten-free, and children’s menus available
- Intimate dining with limited capacity (~16 guests)
- Focus on personalized and tailored dining service
- 🍽️ Dining Experience
Activities
- 🐾 Interactive Wildlife Tracks & Signs Experience
- Learn the ancient art of animal tracking, one of the oldest survival skills.
- Identify footprints, marks, and signs left by animals.
- Understand animal behavior and movements through clues in nature.
- A hands-on, educational experience guided by experts.
- 🦏 Rhino Observation & Monitoring
- Observe endangered rhinos in their natural habitat.
- Participate in conservation by helping record important data.
- Learn about anti-poaching efforts and wildlife protection.
- A meaningful experience for those interested in wildlife conservation.
- 🧭 Bear Grylls Survival Academy (Kids Experience)
- Designed especially for children and families.
- Kids learn basic survival skills like shelter building and navigation.
- Part of the Kids Conservation Warriors programme.
- Fun, adventurous, and educational outdoor activities.
- 🦒 Founders Safari Adventure
- Enjoy guided 4×4 game drives across a 25,000-hectare reserve.
- Spot a wide range of wildlife, including iconic African species.
- Open vehicles provide close-up and immersive viewing.
- Perfect for nature lovers and first-time safari travelers.
- 🐾 Interactive Wildlife Tracks & Signs Experience
Facilities
🌿 Lodge & Public Facilities
- Outdoor swimming pools
- Restaurant serving local & international cuisine
- Bar & lounge with billiards and fireplace
- Dining terrace & traditional boma (outdoor fire dining)
- Library & drawing room (relaxation spaces)
- Curio shop & memorabilia area
- Gym & steam room
- Free Wi-Fi throughout the lodge
- Parking facility
🛏️ Room / Suite Facilities
- Air-conditioning
- Private veranda / terrace with nature views
- En-suite bathroom (bathtub & shower)
- Mini-bar & tea/coffee facilities
- Seating area & work desk
- Hair dryer & vanity area
- International charging sockets
💆 Wellness & Extra Services
- In-room spa treatments (massage, relaxation therapies) (extra charge)
- Laundry services (on request)
- Airport transfers / shuttle (on request / chargeable)
Included in Room Rate
- Accommodation (luxury suite stay)
- All meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner)
- Selected beverages & minibar drinks
- Daily safari/game drives (usually 2 per day)
- Guided nature walks / wildlife experiences
- Wi-Fi access
- Parking
Excluded from Room Rate
- Spa treatments & wellness therapies
- Premium alcoholic beverages (some selections)
- Airport transfers / private transport
- Laundry services
- Personal purchases (shop items, souvenirs)
- Special/private experiences (if customized)
Founders Lodge by Mantis is NOT a MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, Exhibitions) venue.
