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LIFE & LEISURE REFINED MAGAZINE15extraordinary, filled with moments that will be etched in ourmemories forever. From getting up close and personal with two magnificent cheetah brothers while on a walking safari, to thethrilling mountain trek for lunch, every experience has been a testament to the wild beauty of this place. With each sundown stop, nature unveiled a new masterpiece, painting the sky with more beautiful and colourful hues than the last. The wildlife encounters, guided by knowledgeable and passionate experts, have deepened my appreciation for this unique and special habitat, enhanced and renewed by the conservation efforts at Samara.Karoo LodgeAdding to Samara%u2019s allure is the newly revamped Karoo Lodge. Nestled in the heart of the Samara Karoo Reserve near GraaffReinet in the Eastern Cape%u2019s Great Karoo, the Karoo Lodge has recently undergone extensive renovations. Samara%u2019s flagshiplodge, a restored farmhouse where the Samara story began, closed for seven months and reopened just ahead of the festive season. The redesign pays homage to this remarkable region, retaining the lodge%u2019s quintessential Karoo character while embracing a modern approach to safari living. It offers an elevated homeaway-from-home experience with expanded and upgraded facilities, maintaining its timeless charm beloved by Samara guests. The new living, dining, and learning spaces include an atmospheric dining room, library, farm-style kitchen, Spekboomfilled courtyard, wine cellar, bar, gift shop, and interactive StoryRoom showcasing Samara%u2019s past, present, and future. The lodge now accommodates up to 24 guests across ten standalone suites, each overlooking the spectacular mountain landscape.Another exciting addition to Samara Karoo Reserve is the new Cheetah Trail, launched in September 2024. Synonymous with the iconic cheetah, Africa%u2019s most endangered big cat and the reserve%u2019s signature species, Samara is widely regarded as one of the best places on the continent to view cheetahs in the wild. This walking safari offers the opportunity to explore the diversity of the reserve%u2019s rich plants and wildlife on foot. The three-night, four-day guided hiking adventure allows guests to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of Samara, learn about the cheetah and other wildlife, and sleep under the stars. This trail provides a deeper connection to the environment, offering a unique perspective on the landscape and its inhabitants. The chance to walk alongside expert guides, track cheetahs and learn about the intricate web of life in the Karoo is an experience that is both educational and exhilarating.Whether it is the enchanting The Manor, the newly revamped Karoo Lodge, tented Plains Camp, or the thrilling Cheetah Trail, Samara offers experiences that are as diverse as they are unforgettable. My time here has always been a blend of adventure, relaxation, and wonder, making Samara a place that holds a special place in my heart. Our Destination: Samara Karoo ReserveThe award-winning Samara Karoo Reserve is situated on 67,000 acres of born-again wilderness in the beautiful Great Karoo. Located 270km from Gqeberha and 53km from GraaffReinet, Samara is easily accessible by road or air. Five vegetation biomes combine with varied topography to support over 60 mammal species, including the Big Five, cheetah, aardvark, vast herds of desert-adapted antelope, and 225 bird species. Three intimate lodges with a true sense of place welcome guests for slow, meaningful and exceptional safari encounters. Children of all ages are welcomed with a dedicated children%u2019s programme.For further information, visit www.samara.co.za.Text: Deidre Loots Images: Samara Karoo Reserve