The Samara Private Game Reserve is offering a special during May at its Karoo Lodge and Mountain Retreat, where guests can stay for R1 250 per person sharing per night (all inclusive except drinks).

Situated at the foot of the mountain range that descends into the Plains of Camdeboo in the Great Karoo, Samara covers 28 000ha of malaria-free wilderness, and is home to more than 200 birds, including the blue crane, and 60 species of mammal including mountain zebra and cheetah (which you can track on foot).

Samara's a luxurious colonial-style Karoo Lodge and its Manor House both feature contemporary African décor and boast verandas with breath-taking vistas across to the Mountain Retreat, which is secluded, wild and very remote with limited electricity - all the ingredients needed for the perfect getaway, say the owners.

Guests can dine in Samara's boma, under the stars, or picnic in a spot overlooking the romantic plains.

Activities on offer include game drives, guided walks, bird-watching, trips to see fossil sites and bushman paintings or relaxing treatments at the spa.

Samara is in the Eastern Cape near Graaff Reinet. It has a private landing strip for direct charters to the lodge.